Jul 14, 2023
val gardena ~ hiking & biking in the dolomites, italy
By anne-Marie Leduc
I found paradise on Earth: the Dolomites.
It's difficult to choose a favorite among the Swiss, French, and Italian Alps, but... I have a soft spot for Italy. Hiking in the Dolomites, with our village in Val Gardena, was like stepping into a movie scene. The tall peaks, green valleys, and streams made it picturesque. The air was fresh as we walked the trails, enjoying the views. Each climb was exciting, with stunning vistas at every summit. As the sun set, we knew this experience would stay with us forever.
Tips before going:
Research and plan your itinerary: Take the time to research the area and plan out your activities and hikes in advance. There are countless trails and attractions in the Dolomites, so having a plan will help you make the most of your time there. Check the weather forecast: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so make sure to check the forecast before your trip. Pack accordingly, with layers and rain gear, even if you're visiting in the summer months.Pack essentials: Be sure to pack essential items such as sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, a map or GPS device, plenty of water, snacks, and a first aid kit. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery!
How to get there:
We took a flight from Paris to Milan, then caught a train from Milan to Lake Como for the day before returning to Milan to sleep and prepare for our early departure to the Dolomites the next morning. From there, we rented a car using the Virtuo app and drove for about 4 hours to reach Val Gardena. The route is straightforward, mostly on the highway. Alternatively, there are other options to reach Val Gardena by car or bus from Venice.
Where we stayed:
We stayed at the beautiful Arya Alpine Lodge in Selva di Val Gardena, Dolomites. The hosts were exceptional and very knowledgeable about the area. Our room was stunning and well taken care of. The location was premium, right in the center of town, near the shuttles/buses, and right beside an après-ski (or après-hike) restaurant.
our hiking route:
our biking route:
Where we ate:
If you ever find yourself in the Alps, you simply must try dining at a high-altitude restaurant, often called a rifugio. It's truly an experience beyond words. I was blown away by Rifugio Emilio Comici at 2,154 meters. It's now one of my all-time favorite restaurants. You can't beat the views, and the food was delectable. Don't forget to enjoy a couple of prosecco! Since the Ristorante La Stua Après Ski restaurant was right beside our hotel, we went there a couple of times, and it was perfect after full days of activities. We also visited the beautiful grocery store in the heart of town to buy wine and cheeses, and we enjoyed two dinners on our lovely balcony with a mountain view.
