Best of the Dolomites self-drive tour

Today you can drive to Lake Garda and explore one of the most well-known towns on the lake, Sirmione. This ancient walled town has an enviable location on a peninsula that protrudes into the water. The views from Sirmione across Lake Garda are picture-perfect. The heart of the town is surrounded by a maze of cobbled narrow streets lined with boutiques, cafés and restaurants.

The journey begins toward the Dolomites as you drive to Bolzano, the provincial capital of South Tyrol and the gateway to the mountains. Take a walk to the main square known as Waltherplaz which is especially charming and also the location of the town's Gothic cathedral, which is worth a visit.

Bolzano is diverse with its blend of Austrian and Italian culture which you will see throughout the city. The Baroque architecture, green parks and lake shore promenade are all waiting to be explored. You must visit the "Man from the Ice" in the Archaeological Museum.

Beer has been produced in the South Tyrolean region for over 1,000 years and has played a vital role in shaping both its history and culture. Today you will meet with a local beer expert to discover the beer scene of Bolzano. There are eight craft breweries that have their own production facilities in the area, and you’ll have the opportunity to visit three of them, to learn more about their production processes and enjoy a tasting at each.

Today, you'll begin your journey from the historic Castle Hortenberg in Bolzano as you drive along the scenic mountain route toward the COMO Alpina Dolomites hotel in Val Gardena. As you travel, we recommend stopping in the charming town of Bressanone to explore its medieval architecture or taking a leisurely break in the picturesque village of Ortisei, where you can enjoy a stroll through the vibrant streets lined with local shops and cafés, or taking in the stunning mountain views from the Seceda cable car.

Interested in traditional mountain cheeses? Today you'll explore the stunning landscape of Seiser Alm before reaching a traditional cheese workshop nestled in the heart of the Dolomites. Here, you’ll learn about centuries-old cheesemaking techniques, create your own small wheel of cheese from fresh alpine milk, and indulge in a tasting session featuring local delicacies, all while surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

Driving from Corvara via Santa Cristina and Selva Val Gardena, we suggest pausing in Selva for a leisurely lunch. Afterwards, continue your journey into the heart of the Dolomites, where your hike through Puez-Odle Natural Park begins at Passo Gardena, with the majestic Sella mountain on one side and the Cir peaks on the other. As you navigate the rocky terrain and descend into the Edelweiß Valley, take a moment to enjoy the serene landscape before heading back to Corvara. Spend your evening exploring Corvara's charming streets before retreating to the comfort of your room at Hotel Col Alto, where relaxation awaits, before dinner.

Starting from Hotel Col Alto, you'll embark on a culturally immersive journey through the heart of the mountain valleys to uncover the ancient language and culture of the Ladins, a people who have inhabited this region since the 7th century. Your expert guide will lead you through towns like Longiarù, where you'll explore historical hamlets, discover the Mills Valley, and delve deeper into Ladin heritage at the medieval Ciastel de Tor, all while tasting traditional delicacies during a midday farm stop.

Your drive from Hotel Col Alto to Venice will take you through the stunning landscapes of the Dolomites and into the vibrant plains of Veneto. As you approach Venice, take the opportunity to explore the picturesque countryside before dropping off your rental car and heading to the airport for your departure. Your return flight will arrive the same day.