Italiaoutdoors Custom Vacation Planning and Guide

Where is there to Go and What to Do In the Italian Dolomites?

As you plan a Custom Vacation to Italy you will come across the Dolomites or perhaps you have friends you suggest you visit, but perhaps this is not the best destination for you.  This planning guide is to give you a bit of insight into what there is to see and do in one of the world most unique mountain ranges.  I you already know you want to visit the Dolomites check out our Guide to the Dolomites of Italy page for some more detailed information. As you plan your adventure you could add a few days or even stay a couple weeks within the Dolomites. There are plenty of places to bike, rock climb, hike, and ski if you are visiting during the winter months. The are several historical interest to explore as well as some quaint towns and villages to relax in.  With so much we are just giving you some tips to get you started today. For more travel information or planning assistance contact us at mailto:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

HOW TO ORGANIZE YOUR TIME VISITING ITALIAN DOLOMITES

Planning a vacation that includes the Dolomites should be organized by the activities you wish to do.  Then you can start looking at how you are going to move around and if there are any bucket list things you want to add.  The Dolomites are unique and for me one of the most panoramic mountain ranges in the would.  Having been to the Rockies, Appalachians, Andes, Atlas, Pyrenees, Sierra Nevada, Carpathian, Zagros and a could of others (I have yet to visit the Himalayas) and non are as well developed and conducive to exploration as the Dolomites.  This organization is perfect for those who want a great adventure but do not necessary look for an epic expedition.  There are many activities to engage in and after relax in a square or mountain hut with a good meal, cafe, or glass of wine. If you are the casual traveler and you want to check of the see what the hype is all about then my suggest is a quick day trip from somewhere like Venice, Verona, Trento, or Bolzano.  From there you can take a bus up to a pass and ride a cable car up to elevation for lunch and a short walk.  If you are an active traveler see the individual activities below of suggestions and considerations. GETTING THERE: The Dolomites are located in the Veneto and Trentino Alto Adige Regions, majority being in the Veneto.  There are on trains that go into the various valleys so you will have to us the bus system to move around with public transportation or private transfers. The primary end points of the train to get a connection to the Dolomites area. Venice - The is Dolomite Bus that departs from Marco Polo that takes you to Cortina and a couple of other stops.  Belluno - From here you can grab buses to Alleghe and Arabba. Feltre - From Feltre you can find buses up to  Fiera di Primiero and San Martino di Castrozza Trento - Here you find buses up to Val di Fassa and the towns of Cavalese, Predazzo, Modena, and Canazei.  Also you can find buses up to Madonna di Campiglio the primary base to explore the Brenta Group. Bolzano - Is where you will find buses up to Val Gardena. This is also the best location for day trippers because you can get a bus to Carezza Al Lago Dobbiaco - Is the last train stop to get a bus up to Covara Calalzo di Cadore -  This is where you can find buses to Cortina and Auronzo  

ACTIVITIES AND PLACES NOT TO MISS

There are 4 main recreation activities that make the Dolomites a travel destination: hiking, biking, climbing, and ski.  Of course there are other things to do to fill in your travel time. 

1.Hiking or Trekking In the Dolomites The unique aspect of hiking in the Dolomites is not only the amazing views and other worldly landscapes, it is also the organized structure of the trail and support system.  There is no mountain range better organized into a marked trail system that are continually checked and maintained for safety.  Combine this with a system of mountain huts and connection to the valley by cable car you have excellent flexibility and gives more individuals the change to enjoy the alpine environment.  This also can mean more crowds and greater impact on the area however, it is not to hard to find solatude if you wish.  Weather you are a beginner and only look for a few day walks, or an experienced hiker wanting to do a multiday trek this is a great destination choice. TRAVEL TIP: Check out which Alpine Membership cards the various mountain huts accept and you will save quite a bit on overnight stays and some food products.  Or you could join the Climbing Association Italia (CAI) before leaving to enjoy some discounts and find some additional planning resourses also this gives you some rescue benefits in the unlikely event of problems. For More about Hiking in the Dolomites check out our guide page.

2. Malcesine Malcesine sits on the eastern shore about half way up the lake. This is a nice little town setting at the base of Monte Baldo and has narrow medieval streets, harbor, and lots of shops and cafes. This is also a jumping off point for some great walks on Monte Baldo with a cable car that takes you up to 2000 meters. There also several nice nordic walks along the shores on both sides of the town. TRAVEL TIP: Plan time to go up on Monte Baldo worth the cost and there are places to eat and just relax with a picnic lunch. The town can be a challenge for anyone with restricted mobiity due to the steep terrain. For more about Malcesine | Veneto Region check out our page.

3. Limone Sul Garda Across the lake from Malcesine and the next stop on the ferry is Limone sul Garda. Lemone is where the Roman's introduced citrus fruits into northern Italy. With a mild climent lemons and other fruits are still cultivated today and if you like limoncello this the place for you. A nice picturesque town with a waterfront area full of restaurants, cafes, and shops. There are good trails above the town that takes you through the orchards and there is new bike path on northern part of town. TRAVEL TIP: If you are crossing over from Malcesine there are private shuttles that will take you over. Limone is a nice partical day and then moving on to Riva del Garda. For more about Limone Sul Garda | Brescia Province check out our page.

4. Riva del Garda Riva del Garda sits in the north west corner of the lake and is one of the larger towns on the lake. Historically this was an Austrian town until after the First World War. There are plenty of nice day walks around the area and after you can explore the narrow streets of the old town with plenty of shops. TRAVEL TIP: If you only have a couple of days this is probaly your end point. As you plan on moving somewhere else still using public transportation it is actually quicker to take a but over to Rovereto and then pick up a train to your next destination otherwise it is a long boat ride back to the southern area. For more about Riva del Garda | Trento Province check out our page.

WHAT ARE OTHER PLACES TO CONSIDER IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME? Peschiera del Garda | Veneto RegionLazise | Veneto RegionBardolino | Veneto RegionGarda | Veneto RegionTorri del Benaco | Veneto RegionSaloGardone Riviera

What about Trekking on Lake Garda?

For those who like to hike on the trails and explore the more remote areas there I would suggest a few more days on the lake. The best hike in the area would be on Monte Baldo which overshadows the entire eastern shore. There are several main trail systems that pass by the northern area of the lake or you could create or own custom plan.

1. MONTE BALDO TRAVERSE Over the years we have walked in many area's and one of the best early season treks has been walking the spine of Monte Baldo. This is a 3 to 5 day hike on moderate terrian and offers some spectacule views, mountain floria, and just quite relaxing atomsphere to enjoy nature. The hike can be reached by taking the ferry to Garda or Torri del Benaco then transfering up or walking up to Prada. From there you will have about 4 to 6 hour days (suggested) as you work your way toward Nago. Along the way you will pass Cima Costabella, Punta Telegrafo, Monte Baldo, and Cima Altissimo. The lodging will be in mountain huts and simple hotels. TRAVEL TIP: This hike passes the Malcesine cable car so you could either shorten the length or take an extra day to descend do for day on the lake and a refit.

2. OTHER HIKING OPTIONS TO CONSIDER Monte Baldo Ring - This hike starts in Avio and you do not have to navigate on the lake. A 4 day loop that also passes the Malcesine cable car giving you an option to descend to the lake. Treking around Riva del Garda - If you base yourself in Riva there are several good loop routes outside the town. You could spend 3 to 4 days doing these loops with varied difficulty. There is also a couple of nice via Ferrate if you wanted something more exciting.

What Water Sports Are On Lake Garda?

For anyone wanting to do water sports I suggest you making you base yourself in one location and spend a few days there. Windsurfing or Kitesurfing - The best place for these activities is Torbole on the northern part of the lake. Over the year more areas have been established but this considered the place to go. Sailing - You can rent a small sail boat and explore the lake but you do need to have the appropiate license and proof of experience. The sailing is best in the middle area of the lake but it is a bit more techniqual so you need good skills. The southern part can be dead for parts of the day and the northern area to much wind. SCUBA - There are a few places to dive along the lake but they are not recreational. They tend to be fairly deep and sometimes you are just looking at rock formations. I have conducted several classes there over the years but I would never suggest anyone to go there for fun.

Other Outdoor Recreation On Lake Garda

Rockclimbing - There are many climbing site around lake Garda but you need a car to really explore. If you are a climber I would suggest the top 4 towns to visit as you make your way up the lake. Then when you get to Riva del Garda take a transfer to Arco. There you can stay and you are in the mecca of Italian Climbing. Road Bike Touring - I do not suggest you road biking around the lake or on the lake unless it is off season or unless you are comfortable with your bike skills. From April to October the traffic can by harsh. There are sections of the lake with bike paths but they are full of beach walkers and tourist. The roads are the safest but the road from Limone to Riva is several tunnels. However, there are a few nice climbs and you can stay at a section of the lake and ride loop routes always from the best area would be Riva or Torbole on the north. Garda or Laszie on the south east, and Salo on the south west. Mountain Bike - Plenty of trail and downhill all around the northern end of the lake. A very popular place and it easy to find bike rental, service, and shuttles in Torbole and Riva. Also just north of the lake at Arco there are several mountain bike area. SOME FINAL THOUGHTS So as you plan your Italian Adventure we hope this quick guide can get you started. If you need assistance or want some suggestions drop us a line. However, Lake Garda is an excellent visit if you plan and know where to go. Combining a few days here with Venice, Bologna, and Florence can be a great 7 to 12 day visit. Travel should be about your time, interest, and budget and thats what we specialize in helping you do.

Need Help Planning Your Italy Vacation

Italy is one of the most diverse places in the world to visit but there is more to the country then Venice, Florence, Roma, Cinque Terre and a couple of other top attractions.  If you plan you days well and understand how to move around within the country you can a great cost effective vacation full of activity, history, culture, and great food and wine.  Contact us to get the insights to travel in Italy.  We offer: Travel Consultant- book time online for a web chat to answer your questions about traveling in Italy. Travel Planning - need help outlining and planning your adventure in Italy. Scheduled Tours - each month we lead a scheduled tour for those looking to join a small group to explore. Travel support:  Bike Touring - routes, bike rental, bag transfers.  Walking/Hiking Tours - routes, bag transfers. Booking assistance and suggested contacts.

For More Travel Planning Assistance

Italiaoutdoors Custom Vacation Planning and Guide

Where is there to Go and What to Do on Lake Garda?

Lake Grada is Italy's largest lake and a popular recreation site in the northern area. The lake is bordered by the Veneto, Trentino Alto-Adige, and Lombardy regions and offers multipule outdoor attractions. But, with so many options, there is always the question of where do you go or what to do if you have limited time. In this Lago di Garda guide we will touch base on some of the top places to see and what to to do during your adventure. As you plan your adventure you could add a few days or even stay a couple weeks along the lake. There are plenty of old towns to walk, places to bike, rock climb, wind surf, sail, plus other general tourist options like golf, theme parks, and beaches to relax on. With so many activities we are just giving you some tips to get you started today. For more travel information or planning assistance contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

HOW TO ORGANIZE YOUR TIME VISITING LAGO DI GARDA

The first thing we have to consider is how much time and how are we traveling. If you plan on renting a car you have a bit more flexibility, but you also have to deal with local traffic and finding places to park (which is usually paid parking). If you are using public transportation and looking to do outdoor activities, you will most likely want to base yourself in one place and adventure from there. Then you will want to follow the general flow of the transportation system to get the most out of your time. GETTING THERE: Flying into Milano or Venezia, you can reach Lake Grada by Train very easily. You will be arriving at the southern shores of the lake and from there you can utilize the lake ferry (mainly from Desenzano, Sirmione or Peschiera del Garda) or public buses to get to your destination.

ACTIVITIES AND PLACES NOT TO MISS

What Do I Do As A City Walker? For everyone who enjoys walking, I would suggest you utlize the lake ferry or public busses exploring a few places each day, while you move up the lake. There are 4 Places Not To Miss, each having their own charm.

1. Sirmione Located on the southern shores, this is one of the most popular tourist area on the lake and it is very much worth the visit. The old town has roman ruins, a medieval castle, mineral spa, and plenty of shops and ice cream places. It sits on a small peninsula and, even though it is only about 4 to 6 kms of walking, if you like to linger you could spend the entire day here. TRAVEL TIP: By car you have to park in one of the paid areas and then walk into the city. If you are arriving by train the regional and local trains from Verona and Bresica stop at Sirmione and you can walk down to the city or take a bus. If you are planning to arrive by boat it is best to start from Desenzano del Garda (almost all trains stop here including Eurostar). For more about Sirimone | Brescia Province check out our page.

2. Malcesine Malcesine sits on the eastern shore about half way up the lake. This is a nice little town setting at the base of Monte Baldo and has narrow medieval streets, a harbor, and lots of shops and cafes. This is also a jumping off point for some great walks on Monte Baldo, with a cable car that takes you up to 2000 meters. There are also several nice nordic walks along the shores on both sides of the town. TRAVEL TIP: Plan time to go up on Monte Baldo. It is worth the cost and there are places to eat and just relax with a picnic lunch. The town can be a challenge for anyone with restricted mobility due to the steep terrain. For more about Malcesine | Veneto Region check out our page.

3. Limone Sul Garda Across the lake from Malcesine and the next stop on the ferry is Limone sul Garda. Limone is where the Romans introduced citrus fruits into northern Italy. Thanks to the mild climate lemons and other fruits are still cultivated today, and if you like limoncello this the place for you. Limone offers a nice picturesque town with a waterfront area full of restaurants, cafes, and shops. There are good trails above the town that take you through the orchards and there is a new bike path on northern part of town. TRAVEL TIP : If you are crossing over from Malcesine there are private shuttles that will take you over. Limone is a nice partial day and then you can move on to Riva del Garda. For more about Limone Sul Garda | Brescia Province check out our page.

4. Riva del Garda Riva del Garda sits in the north west corner of the lake and is one of its larger towns. Historically, this was an Austrian town until after the First World War. There are plenty of nice day walks around the area, and after you can explore the narrow streets of the old town with plenty of shops. TRAVEL TIP : If you only have a couple of days this is probably your end point. As you plan on moving somewhere else still using public transportation it is actually quicker to take a bus over to Rovereto and then pick up a train to your next destination, otherwise it is a long boat ride back to the southern area. For more about Riva del Garda | Trento Province check out our page.

WHAT ARE OTHER PLACES TO CONSIDER IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME? Peschiera del Garda | Veneto RegionLazise | Veneto RegionBardolino | Veneto RegionGarda | Veneto RegionTorri del Benaco | Veneto RegionSaloGardone Riviera

What about Trekking on Lake Garda?

For those who wish to hike on the trails and explore the more remote areas I would suggest a few more days on the lake. The best hike in the area would be on Monte Baldo, which overshadows the entire eastern shore. There are several main trail systems that pass by the northern area of the lake, or you could create your own custom plan.

1. MONTE BALDO TRAVERSE Over the years we have walked in many areas, and one of the best early season treks has been walking the spine of Monte Baldo. This is a 3 to 5 day hike on moderate terrain and offers some spectacular views, beautiful mountain flora, and a quiet and relaxing atmosphere to enjoy nature. The hike can be reached by taking the ferry to Garda or Torri del Benaco, then transfering up - or walking up - to Prada. From there you will have about 4 to 6 hour days (suggested) as you work your way toward Nago. Along the way you will pass Cima Costabella, Punta Telegrafo, Monte Baldo, and Cima Altissimo. The lodging will be in mountain huts and simple hotels. TRAVEL TIP : This hike passes the Malcesine cable car so you could either shorten the length or take an extra day to descend on the lake and refit.

2. OTHER HIKING OPTIONS TO CONSIDER Monte Baldo Ring - This hike starts in Avio and you do not have to navigate on the lake. It is a 4 day loop that also passes the Malcesine cable car, giving you an option to descend to the lake. Trekking around Riva del Garda - If you base yourself in Riva there are several good loop routes outside the town. You could spend 3 to 4 days doing these itineraries with varied difficulty. There is also a couple of nice vie ferrate if you look for something more exciting.

What Water Sports Are On Lake Garda?

For anyone wanting to do water sports I suggest you make your base yourself in one location and spend a few days there. Windsurfing or Kitesurfing - The best place for these activities is Torbole, on the northern part of the lake. Over the years more areas have been established but this considered the place to go. Sailing - You can rent a small sail boat and explore the lake but you do need to have the appropiate license and proof of experience. Sailing is best in the middle area of the lake but it is a bit more technical so you need good skills. The southern part of the lake can be dead for parts of the day, while in the northern area can be too much wind. Scuba - There are a few places to dive along the lake but they are not recreational. They tend to be fairly deep and sometimes you are just looking at rock formations. I have conducted several classes there over the years but I would never suggest anyone to go there for fun.

More Outdoor Recreation On Lake Garda

Rockclimbing - There are many climbing sites around lake Garda but you need a car to really be able to explore. If you are a climber, I would suggest the top 4 towns to visit as you make your way up the lake. Then when you get to Riva del Garda take a transfer to Arco. You can stay there, as it puts you in the mecca of Italian Climbing. Road Bike Touring - I do not suggest you road biking around the lake or on the lake unless it is off season, or unless you are comfortable with your bike skills. From April to October the traffic can be harsh. There are sections of the lake with bike paths but they are full of beach walkers and tourist. The roads are the safe but the road from Limone to Riva is several tunnels. However, there are a few nice climbs, and you can stay at a section of the lake and ride loop routes. The best areas would be Riva or Torbole on the north, Garda or Lazise on the south east, and Salo` on the south west. Mountain Bike - There are plenty of trails and downhill all around the northern end of the lake. Torbole and Riva are very popular places, and it easy to find bike rental, service, and shuttles. Also just north of the lake, at Arco, there are several mountain bike areas. SOME FINAL THOUGHTS As you plan your Italian Adventure we hope this quick guide can get you started. If you need assistance or want some suggestions drop us a line. However, Lake Garda is an excellent visit if you plan well and know where to go. Combining a few days here with Venice, Bologna, and Florence can be a great 7 to 12 days visit. Travel should be about your time, interest, and budget and that's what we specialize in helping you do.

Need Help Planning Your Italian Vacation?

Italy is one of the most diverse places in the world to visit, but there is more to the country then Venice, Florence, Rome, Cinque Terre, and a couple of other top attractions. If you plan your days well and understand how to move around within the country you can a great cost effective vacation full of activity, history, culture, and great food and wine. Contact us to get the insights to travel in Italy. We offer: Travel Consultant - book time online for a web chat to answer your questions about traveling in Italy. Travel Planning - ask us for help outlining and planning your adventure in Italy. Scheduled Tours - each month we lead a scheduled tour for those looking to join a small group to explore the country. Travel support: Bike Touring - routes, bike rental, bag transfers.  Walking/Hiking Tours - routes, bag transfers. Booking assistance and suggested contacts.

For More Travel Planning Assistance

Italiaoutdoors di Vernon McClure

How We Support Our Tours

What to expect for support on an Italiaoutdoors Trip

HOW WE SUPPORT CYCLIST ON BIKE TOURS IN ITALY During your next vacation to Italy plan a few days outdoors exploring beyond Venice and the main tourist paths.· There are several great attractions and adventures to explore throughout the Veneto Region. Services are based on availability of date requested. I do not subcontract services, I guide or support every booked program myself, therefore it is important for you to book early. A deposit holds your booking with final payment due two weeks prior to activity date.· See sign up page for payment details. General Information It is recommended that you bring your own helmet, seat, and pedals (with shoes) for a more comfortable bike experience. If you have a GPS I can provide downloaded routes for your stay, or you utilize my GPS systems which will have routes uploaded and has the Italian road base map. We properly adjust the bicycle to your body type, review proper usage, and road safety for Italy. On self guided programs you are responsible of changing tires, dropped chain, and whipping off bike after a rainy day ride.· On guided programs I will take care any bike issues. You are responsible for any bike damage, major mechanical repairs due to poor usage, replacing stolen bicycle or any additional gear (i.e. GPS, gear bag, spare tire kit, pump, chain, etc.) For self guided programs I provide route notes for each ride. I also offer an emergency service if there is a major problem. If you wish to start from a point other than the one listed on each itinerary there is a service charge for the travel to and from your location to deliver and pick-up the bicycle and equipment.

Guided Tours

GUIDED TOURS ON THE BIKE (Our Green Program) I offer guided rides with me riding along with you. I will guide you through the area, adjust the route based on how you feel during the ride, point out major sites, stop at locations to refill water bottles, and be a ready to fix flats or other mechanical problems. Routes are selected based on riding fitness and travel interest. GUIDED TOURS WITH SUPPORT VEHICLE If you want to ride on your own but wish to have support during your ride I offer vehicle support where I will carry water, snacks, and spare bikes. This will be your team car: where you can store extra riding kit, shoes for walking around the towns we ride through, and feel comfortable that in the unlikely event you have a problem you will have assistance. Moto Support: For loop rides shorter than 100 kms and when there are only 1-8 riders, I utilize a Vespa or Motorcycle to lead you on the route, on board I have a spare wheel and tool kit for any problems, pre filled water bottles, and a few snacks for energy during the ride. I shadow you on your ride marking main turns this way you are comfortable to ride as you want and have support during the day. In the unlikely event of a major problem I will be able to make a quick return to the support van for additional materials. Vehicle Support:· For rides beyond 100 kms I utilize the classic method of a support van. I provide detailed route notes and you are on your own pace. I link up every 25-30 kms, along the route to provide you water and snacks, in the unlikely event there is a mechanical issue or other problem I am available to provide quick assistance. This also allows the shuttling out to a start point and working our way back you your base hotel. If you get tried along the way you can gracefully bail and grab a lift in the van. Others who wish to ride further can do so freely. For safety on the road I do not follow riders or mark routes with the van. Contact me to schedule your program or mix and match the above services.

What to do in the Dolomites

ITALIAOUTDOORS BIKE RENTAL POLICY

The following form will be printed and signed on day one of rental.

Italiaoutdoors di Vernon McClure reserves the right to refuse renting equipment to those with insufficient knowledge or ability for your own protection and safety!

Reservations

A 50% deposit is required to reserve your equipment. Payment may be made with cash, check or VISA/MasterCard. Reservation fees on equipment will begin the intended day of rental. Balance must be paid in full before picking up the equipment, with a non refundable security deposit if equipment is not returned in the condition it was rented in. Italiaoutdoors di Vernon McClure reserves the sole right to determine the condition returned!

Security Deposit

A credit card is required for an equipment deposit. The renter will be charged for repairs or replacement of damaged or lost equipment and assessed a cleaning fee for returning dirty equipment. Please treat our equipment as if it were your own or better. We take pride in our gear and hope you will enjoy and appreciate the value and performance of our top of the line equipment.

Rates and Late Fees

Rates are based on pick up and drop-off of bicycles in the Vicenza and Venice Province's, arrangements can be made to have a bicycle delivered to and picked up at specific hotels throughout Italy, but an additional fee will be added to cover the cost of transport.  For estimate of cost email or skype me.

Daily rates are based on a 24-hour period and equipment may be picked up and returned as follows:
PICK UP TIME:________9:am RETURN TIME: _______ by 9am following day
No refunds will be made due to weather conditions, equipment returned early, or for equipment rented but not used. Equipment returned late will be charged $10.00, plus the additional day rate for each day it is late.
Bike rental does not includes helmet, please bring one and wear it for your safety

Day    Rate:

Aluminum Road Bike: 25 euro per day without insurance
Carbon Fiber Road Bike: 35 Euro per day without insurance

Bike Rental Insurance can be obtained for an additional 5 euro per day for AL Road Bikes and 10 Euro for Carbon Fiber Road Bikes. This covers all damage but it will not cover theft.