Powder snow and idyllic mountain scenery. Three Peaks in the Dolomites: winter holiday options

Published by Mountainblog on .

Drei Zinnen Tre Cime ©H.Oberhofer (1)

Crisp winter air, snow-covered slopes and glowing peaks: Located at the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site, the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites turns into a true snow-lovers’ paradise during the winter months. Set against a breathtaking alpine background, the townships of Sesto/Sexten, San Candido/Innichen, Dobbiaco/Toblach, Villabassa/Niederdorf and Braies/Prags provide a wide choice of options: Perfectly groomed ski runs and cross-country ski tracks for the active, snowshoeing and hiking tours through a picture-perfect winter wonderland for those who are up for a more relaxed pace, and rustic mountain huts serving local specialties and home-made delights.

Alpine skiing fun and nature highlights on cross-country tracks
The Three Peaks in the Dolomites features more than 100 kilometers of ski slopes and tracks for all levels, located amidst the impressive Dolomites mountain range. A challenge for fit skiers is the 34 kilometer Giro delle Cime day tour with a vertical drop of 5,600 meters. The adventurous, on the other hand, may opt for the steepest run in all of South Tyrol, the so-called “Holzriese”, featuring a slope gradient of 71%. Meanwhile, families and kids are sure to have fun on the sun-drenched runs of the small and easy-to-explore Braies or the family-friendly Baranci ski resorts near San Candido. Fans of cross-country skiing will find more than 200 diverse and perfectly groomed tracks around Sesto, San Candido, Dobbiaco, Villabassa and Braies, making the valley Italy’s number one cross-country skiing destination. The Prato Piazza/Plätzwiese high-altitude track located at 2,000 meters, for example, promises truly stunning views of the Cristallo range and the Hohe Gaisl.

Fotoshooting TM Hochpustertal Winter 2010-11 Langlauf Platzwiese

Snowshoeing – A different kind of winter fun
How about exploring the unspoilt winter landscape on snowshoes for a change? A great choice is the easy route through the forests of San Candido via the Jora mountain hut and on to the Riese Haunold hut with its small and cozy rooms featuring 200-year old used wood from historic mountain huts. Not to mention the local specialties which are served there and should definitely not be missed! A bit more challenging is the intermediate tour up Monte Calvo/Golfen offering fantastic views of Dobbiaco and the Val di Landro/Höllensteintal. Experienced snowshoers may want to try the hike leading through deep snow from Ponticello/Brückele to the Rossalm at 2,164 meters.

Hiking tours in winter wonderland
Another way to enjoy a holiday around the Three Peaks is hiking through beautifully snow-covered landscapes and occasionally stopping at a mountain hut or rustic restaurant for a break. Visitors walking from the Val Campo di Dentro/Innerfeldtal to the Rifugio Tre Scarpiere, for example, will be rewarded not only with wonderful views of the Sesto Dolomites, but also with authentic culinary treats like dumplings and goulash or home-made dough-covered, fried apple rings, so-called “Äpfelkiachlan”, with vanilla ice cream. A picturesque trail just above the tree line takes visitors from the Prato Piazza high altitude plateau to the Rifugio Vallandro, opening up breath-taking views of the Hohe Gaisl, Tofane and Monte Cristallo peaks. The alpine hut is located at 2,040 meters and serves tempting regional and Italian fare. Yet another option is the quite challenging pathway from the Monte Croce/Kreuzberg mountain pass in Sesto to the cozy Coltrondo Alm alpine pasture with its menu of farm-to-table dishes. Following this nice break, hikers can continue on to the Malga Alpe Nemes hut and the Klammbachalm alpine pasture for a final warming-up before descending through snow-covered forests back down to the valley.

For further information about activities and accommodation in the Three Peaks Dolomites visit www.drei-zinnen.info

Family Time in the Three Peaks Dolomites
Snow-Filled Action For All Ages, Friendly Reindeer and an Enchanted Mountain Lake

Published by Mountainblog on .

freizeit_winter_rentiere_019_s_dolomiten_photogruener

A giant family of snowmen, the gentle sound of bells on a reindeer-drawn sleigh passing by and children’s laughter in the air: Croda Rossa / Rotwand with its sunny slopes and cuddly residents is only one among many beautifully snow-steeped sites in the holiday region Three Peaks  in the Dolomites. This is where family dreams come true, over and over again. The charming ski resort features both skiing fun for grown-ups and entertainment for the little ones. Not forgetting the adjacent peaks, frozen-over mountain lakes and the valleys that offer a great choice of additional exciting experiences.

Located at the heart of the Dolomites, the snow-covered holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites with its quaint holiday resorts of Sesto/Sexten, San Candido/Innichen, Dobbiaco/Toblach, Villabassa/Niederdorf and Braies/Prags is a favorite among winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers of all ages. The area formerly known as Alta Pusteria / Hochpustertal offers great fun, relaxation and lots of activities. The giant family of snowmen on Croda Rossa, a popular backdrop for that annual family photo, is only one of many elaborate details the destination holds in store for younger guests.

On the Rudy Reindeer Trail for example, an educational ski training track, little skiers get to know new techniques through playful elements. Croda Rossa’s herd of reindeer, the smallest in the Alps and the only one in Italy, is a big hit with children, and there are many more animals to be discovered down in the valley, at the Gustav Mahler Wildlife Park in Dobbiaco. Deer, lynx, mouflons, wild boars, snowy owls raccoons and many other species await visitors daily from 9 am through 6 pm. The park only stays closed on Thursdays.

Meanwhile, the family-friendly Monte Baranci/Haunold ski area provides lots of action-packed fun: On a designated kids ski-cross run juniors get the chance to train their skills, and the snow tubing run sends them – and courageous parents, too – off on a ride on special tyres down the snow-covered mountain. Those who just can’t get enough of the great outdoors are twice a week able to hit the floodlit slopes for some night-skiing or tobogganing. Next to the mighty Monte Baranci Croda Rossa and Signaue also make for some excellent “down-hilling” thanks to lifts that take both people and their toboggans comfortably to the start.

As fast-paced things may be mountainside, a magical winter wonderland welcomes visitors down in the valley: Throughout the season, horse-drawn carriages take families on romantic sleigh rides through glittering forests. Lago di Braies / Pragser Wildsee is a popular destination during these tours as it lies embedded in mystical peace, enchanted as if touched by the Snow Queen – a miraculous place for all generations. Last but not least, the ice rinks of Dobbiaco, Villabassa, Sesto and San Candido are a must for fans of ice skating.

For further details on activities and family-friendly accommodation in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites see www.drei-zinnen.info.

INFO: Three Peaks Dolomites

A UNESCO World Heritage Site experience. Hiking in the Holiday Region Three Peaks in the Dolomites

Published by Mountainblog on .

freizeit_sommer_wandern_01_idm_f_blickle


Awe-inspiring peaks, sparkling lakes and quaint valleys – it is these iconic features that make the Three Peaks Dolomites a perfect hiking destination. Right at the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site and around the area’s famous landmark, the Three Peaks, nature lovers and sports enthusiasts can choose from a wide variety of hut-to-hut trekking tours, circular hikes and challenging high routes. Whether it is an easy hike from the emerald-green shores of Lago di Braies/Pragser Wildsee to the sun-drenched Malga Foresta/Grünwaldalm, a steeper ascent from the Prato Piazza/Plätzwiese plateau to the panoramic Picco de Vallandro/Dürrenstein, or an ambitious multi-day tour along the Dobbiaco high route with its unparalleled views of the Three Peaks – the choice of routes is sure to suite all skills and abilities.

freizeit_sommer_wandern_06_idm_f_blickle
The natural beauty found in and around the holiday resorts of Sesto/Sexten, San Candido/Innichen, Dobbiaco/Toblach, Villabassa/Niederdorf and Braies/Prags turns hiking in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites into an unforgettable experience. A true place of magic, for example, is the Prato Piazza high altitude plateau near Braies. Far away from any traffic this gem captures visitors with a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. It is also the starting point for several hikes at different levels. Families will enjoy the easy walk to Monte Specie/Strudelkopf at 2,307 meters. The summit cross, which is also known as “homecomer’s cross”, offers rewarding vistas of Tofane, Monte Cristallo and the Three Peaks. Those who are not afraid of heights take the road to Picco de Vallandro at Prato Piazza for the three-hour challenging climb that opens up great panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. On the plateau itself the Prato Piazza Mountain Inn and the Rifugio Vallandro serve a variety of regional fare for hungry hikers.

freizeit_sommer_wandern_11_idm_f_blickle
Well-trained endurance athletes are able to test their physical fitness along the Dobbiaco high route where the Dolomites and the High Tauern mountain range seem close enough to touch. Alternatively, the tour may be extended to two days including an overnight at the Rifugio Bonner. This provides visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful mountains from hut to hut, including the Steinbergalm hut and the Malga S. Silvestro hut/Silvesteralm.

A nature experience for the more slow-paced is the easy walk over the wide gravel road framed by lovely pastures leading from the legendary lake Lago di Braies to the Malga Foresta at an altitude of 1,580 meters. Gourmets will enjoy the hut’s delicious menu of the day featuring local and Italian specialties, served on the beautiful sundeck. Another easy, yet none the less scenic route originates in historic San Candido. It takes hikers to the Rifugio Tre Scarperi/Dreischusterhütte and boasts great views of the impressive Sesto Dolomites that stretch through the Val Campo di Dentro/Innerfeldtal. The area is part of the Three Peaks Nature Park and offers an unspoilt haven of peace and tranquility second to none. The Tre Scarperi hut operates from June through early October and also offers guest accommodation.

For further information on activities and accommodation in the Three Peaks Dolomites website.

Haven of inspiration: Sounds, visions and food for thought in the Three Peaks Dolomites

Published by Mountainblog on .

 

 

©TV Innichen_Patrick Janach

 

The Dolomites have always been a place of inspiration and free spirit. From arts and crafts to paintings and music – sharp rock formations, beautiful mountain pastures and the untamed forces of nature evoke an atmosphere of creativity. Anyone visiting the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites will be captured by this truly unique feeling that can be experienced through a multitude of events and in many different places.

A musical genius and his works
Intrigued by the town’s special appeal, composer Gustav Mahler started spending his summers from 1908 onwards in Dobbiaco/Toblach. Not only did they name a concert hall at the cultural center Grand Hotel Toblach after him – since 1981 Dobbiaco has also been staging the annual Gustav Mahler Music Weeks, a high-class, internationally acclaimed music festival dedicated to the works and traditions of Gustav Mahler. In 2017, the event is taking place July 15 through August 4. In addition to a wide choice of concerts visitors get to enjoy exhibitions and a series of lectures titled “Gustav Mahler dialog”.

Magical and dazzling with a dash of craziness: OLALA
Acrobats, magicians, shining lights and flashy characters: On July 28, 2017 San Candido/Innichen plays host to the OLALA street theater festival Lienz with its intriguing program that will enchant audiences through walk acts in the pedestrian zone, through crazy appearances between bars and shops, and many other performances. Owing to its innovative and unorthodox character OLALA has grown to become one of the most popular festivals of its kind in Europe.

Green think-tank at the pulse of time: the Toblach Talks
Founded in 1985 by Hans Glauber, the Toblach Talks have evolved into a renowned think-tank for issues relating to the ecological turnaround in the Alpine region. Once a year, experts from various fields, scientists, community officials, and business and tourism representatives gather at the Grandhotel Toblach to discuss specific topics. During the upcoming Toblach Talks from September 29 through October 1, 2017 participants will focus on digitalization in a sharing economy and its potential contributions towards a sustainable future – during presentations, panel discussions, talks and on-site gatherings.

Historic atmosphere and cultural attractions in downtown San Candido
Known for its many shops and restaurants historic San Candido in the Dolomites has a very urban feel to it. While taking a leisurely stroll through old town and the pedestrian zone’s small alleys, or enjoying a glass of wine there is sure to provide a taste of true Italian dolce vita, a visit to Collegiate Church proves both historically and culturally rewarding: Dating back to the 12 century, it is one of the most important Romanesque sacral buildings in the Eastern Alps.

Photo: ©TV Innichen_Patrick Janach

For further information on activities and accommodation in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites go to www.drei-zinnen.info

Three Peaks Dolomites: Tradition, Local Crafts
& Regional Food Specialties

Published by Mountainblog on .

gastronomie_035_m_gratton

 

The holiday regionThree Peaks in the Dolomites takes travelers on a journey back to the origins – to traditional crafts and local food specialties. The region, which is located at the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a very unique appeal during the summer months with glowing mountain peaks standing against quaint valleys and sun-kissed alpine meadows. It is a place where traditional craftsmanship is kept alive with much dedication and where visitors get to enjoy delicious South Tyrolean culinary treats made from local ingredients, sold at local farms or small farmers’ shops.

Travelling back in time: The tradition of hat making. A great example demonstrating the long tradition of ancient crafts in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites is the Zacher family in San Candido/Innichen. They have been crafting products from natural felt since 1560, which makes them one of the country’s oldest artisan families. Today, the five siblings carrying on the tradition at the hat maker’s shop mainly manufacture slippers and soles.

A fruity affair. At the farm “manufactory” Regiohof food lovers get to taste a blend of traditional foods and new influences. Ancient recipes from mountain farms are newly brought to life through zesty chutneys and high-quality preserves made from different types of fruit. The Alpe Pragas, too, processes for their delicious preserves nothing but premium fruit grown right in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites. An exceptionally high 70% (or more) fruit content in all spreads guarantees an extra tasteful experience.

Of farmer’s shops and local cheese miracles. Visitors will find a great number of farmer’s shops in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites inviting them on a leisurely stroll through rustic farmsteads. At traditional mountain farms and small farming households like the Patzleiner family’s Höfkäserei Lechnerhof connoisseurs are able to purchase premium homemade cheeses and dairy products. A wide choice of homemade products is also available at the Unteroltlhof in Sesto/Sexten, where in 2008 the Villgrater family added a cheese dairy to their farm. Not forgetting the Villa Waldruhe in Dobbiaco/Toblach, an organic farm that uses all components of milk when producing cheese. Another place not to miss in Dobbiaco is the show dairy Drei Zinnen. It explains the secret behind traditional cheese making in the area. In addition, the gallery at this modern alpine dairy presents insights on the production process and the work of experienced master cheese makers.

Apart from milk, cheese and other dairy products visitors can buy meat and sausages made from young cattle raised at the respective farm plus a choice of smoked meat products at small, rustic farmer’s shops like the farm butchery Steinmetz in Sesto or at the Ranerhof in San Candido.

Local flavors: The Three Peaks Dolomites “Quality Partner“ seal. When choosing a restaurant or accommodation food lovers who put particular emphasis on local quality should look out for the “Quality Partner” seal issued by the Sennerei Drei Zinnen and the Sesto cheese dairy. The seal is awarded to places that exclusively serve locally produced dairy products.

INFO: Three Peaks Dolomites

Top 5 Things to Do for Adrenaline Junkies
In the Holiday Region Three Peaks
in the Dolomites

Published by Mountainblog on .

©TV Innichen_M.Pavana (70)

Adventures abound and a big rush of adrenaline: In May, South Tyrol’s Three Peaks Dolomites holiday region starts into a new climbing and outdoor season drawing mountaineers of all sorts to the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. From beginners to experts, from hiking to climbing – fixed rope routes, via ferratas and high routes, exciting climbing parks and indoor climbing centers make the region a perfect destination for anyone “aiming high”, and popular climbing and outdoor events are sure to add that extra bit of action. The top five things to do for adrenaline junkies:

1. “Peak performance”: Following the Dolomites high routes

Taking a spectacular multi-day hike through the Dolomites requires a certain level of physical fitness and stamina. In spite of all the strain, it certainly won’t be long before the endorphins kick in, along the ridgeway crossing the Braies/Prags and the Sesto/Sexten Dolomites for example. During the five-day tour from Braies to the Dolomites’ famous Prato Piazza/Plätzwiese crossing the Valle della Rienza/Rienztal valley to the “Drei Zinnen Hütte” mountain hut and back to the idyllic Val Fiscalina/Fischleintal hikers will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Three Peaks. Nights can be spent at cozy, rustic huts to be found along the trails.

2. For novices and pros: Climbing parks & indoor climbing centres

Whether it is improving one’s skills or entering the world of climbing – the spectacular climbing parks in the Three Peaks Dolomites offer perfect terrain for all tastes. Known as some of the most popular destinations for experienced climbers are the climbing crag Landro in the Val di Landro/Höhlensteintal, and the challenging routes in Ponticello/Brückele in the Val di Braies valley, while the Rienztal valley climbing park attracts visitors with a variety of routes both for beginners and pros plus impressive views of the Three Peaks. Ideal places for practice are the two indoor climbing centers: The Nordic Arena in Dobbiaco/Toblach and the Dolomiten Arena in Sesto/Sexten provide routes for every level plus bouldering areas.

3. Follow the flow: Via ferratas in the Three Peaks Dolomites

Those who feel ready for the next step “up” can try and climb the Three Peaks with an experienced guide from one of the local alpine training centers. There is a whole choice of routes at different levels leading up the region’s landmark. The world famous Via Comici route on the north face (level VII), for example, is recommended for very experienced climbers only: 16 ropes and a 550-metre vertical slab make it a very special challenge.

4. Rock it! – The Dolorock Climbing Festival

A renowned event in the scene, the Dolorock Climbing Festival takes place from May 26 through 28, 2017 in the Three Peaks Dolomites. It offers climbers the opportunity to spend a weekend dedicated to their favorite sports and to compete against big names from the scene in the Landro valley. More detailed information is available on www.dolorock.com.

5. Aiming high: The Adventure Outdoor Fest, San Candido/Innichen

Visitors at this year’s Adventure Outdoor Fest from June 28 through July 2 will be able to literally rise to new heights trying themselves at disciplines like high-lining, parkour, climbing, mountain biking, running and yoga. Next to courses, meetings and presentations the festival also presents workshops, film screenings in the evenings, and an exciting kid’s program. For full details see www.adventureoutdoorfest.com

For further information on activities and family-friendly accommodation in the Three Peaks Dolomites go to www.drei-zinnen.info.

INFO: Three Peaks Dolomites

Three Peaks Dolomites: The Best Places For Fun-Filled Action, Relaxation and Romance in The Snow

Published by Mountainblog on .

h-wisthaler2


South Tyrol’s Alta Pusteria/Hochpustertal, which as of recently presents itself under the “Three Peaks Dolomites” brand, offers some of the best places for a winter season filled with outdoor action, opportunities to relax and romantic moments – in the picturesque townships of
Sesto/Sexten, San Candido/Innichen, Dobbiaco/Toblach, Villabassa/Niederdorf and Braies/Prags. Whether it is a horse sleigh ride in the Val Fiscalina/Fischleintal, a walk along the shores of Lago di Braies/Pragser Wildsee, a stroll through San Candido’s picturesque pedestrian zone, a stop at Klammbachalm or snowshoeing and cross-country skiing through a mountain winter wonderland: the wide variety of choices is sure to suit all tastes.

Romantic moments in the snow
What could possibly be more romantic than a horse sleigh ride for two through the picture-perfect snow-covered scenery at Val Fiscalina and the famous Meridiana di Sesto?
Or how about a walk through the charming pedestrian zone of San Candido, site of the annual “Dolomite Christmas”? This season, the event takes place November 25 through January 6, filling the village with true Christmas magic. Nature lovers, on the other hand, should opt for Lago di Braies, the largest natural lake in the Dolomites, which during the winter months is covered with glittering white ice and snow.

tv-innichen_h-wisthaler-13

An athlete’s dream come true …
Winter time is also the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors – on cross-country skis, for example. The holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites features an impressive 200 kilometer network of groomed and connected trails. An insider’s tip is the Val di Landro tour providing great views of the Three Peaks.
Alpine skiers will enjoy the area’s more than 93 kilometers of perfectly groomed slopes in the Three Peaks Dolomites ski resort, snow guaranteed. And, next to the new, sun-drenched Three Peaks run actually lies Italy’s steepest run, the so-called “Holzriese”.

Unspoiled landscapes and a hearty snack
Snowshoeing puts participants into a slower, almost meditative mode when jointly making their way through spectacular landscapes covered with an immaculate white blanket of snow that produces softly crunching noises. Offering breathtaking views of the Three Peaks, a hike from Prato Piazza/Plätzwiese to Monte Specie/Strudelkopf is considered to be a true highlight. At the end of an extensive hike or snowshoeing tour stands a hearty snack, served in the cozy atmosphere of a farmed alp like Klammbachalm. Those looking for an easier way up to the alp should instead take a gondola ride via Stiergarten.

Creits: 1st pic H.Wisthaler / 2nd pic ©TV Innichen_H.Wisthaler.

 

Further information and bookings are available online at www.drei-zinnen.info

For High-Flyers and Fans of Rudy Reindeer
Ski Experiences In The Three Peaks Dolomites

Published by Mountainblog on .

drei-zinnen-ag_c-tschurtschenthaler-4

Since the skiing terrain in the Three Peaks Dolomites is so varied and distances within the resort are so short, the Three Peaks Dolomites ski resort has for the 2016/17 season created a series of exciting experiences for all types of skiers.

For high-flyers: A helicopter ride over the snow-covered Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage and boundless skiing fun on the area’s most beautiful pistes is what visitors are able to experience when booking the Dolomites by Ski & Heli tour.

An absolute must for skiers with great stamina is the Giro delle Cime. The day tour through the Monte Elmo/Helm, Stiergarten, Croda Rossa/Rotwand, Kreuzberg/Monte Croci and the Val Comlico ski area features 5,600 meters of elevation gain, eleven lift rides providing spectacular views as well as many culinary peaks. Depending on snow conditions, the tours take place weekly on Wednesday and Sunday throughout the winter season.

drei-zinnen-ag_-c-tschurtschenthaler-4

Lots of adrenaline and fascinating technical insights are offered to adventurous guests during the Free Fall Ride at the Croda Rossa when accompanying technicians on their nightly snow groomer tour. It takes them to one of the steepest runs in the Alps, the so-called “Holzriese”.

Up for a skiing break? The feeding of Italy’s only herd of reindeers near the top of the Croda Rossa gondola promises to become an unforgettable highlight for the entire family. The public feeding takes place every Thursday at 2 pm.

Early-morning ski tours in the Dolomites are the crowning glory of any skiing season. Those wanting to enrich this awe-inspiring experience with a breakfast in the sun should opt for the Three Peaks Mountain Brunch, available on Saturdays from February 11, 2017. On touring skis participants make their way from the valley’s bottom in Sesto up to the popular panorama restaurant on Monte Elmo.

Bookings are available online.

Copyright: Ch. Tschurtschenthaler

INFO: Three Peaks Dolomites

A New Name for South Tyrol’s Alta Pusteria/Hochpustertal: Three Peaks Dolomites

Published by Mountainblog on .

3zinnen-dolomites_bild-mit-logo_hochauflosend

 

With immediate effect, the area around South Tyrol’s Alta Pusteria presents itself under a new name – holiday region Three Peaks/3 Zinnen in the Dolomites. The rising alpine destination, which comprises the quaint villages of Sesto/Sexten, San Candido/Innichen, Dobbiaco/Toblach, Villabassa/Niederdorf and Braies/Prags, chose that name in order to further stress the importance of the world-famous Three Peaks as the area’s landmark. Yet, the primary focus of the tourism experience remains the holiday experience for all senses. Target groups are individual travellers and families, those looking for indulgence or relaxation, and active travellers. The valley welcomes them with a truly unique mix of cultural features and laid-back lifestyle, whether it is during a break at one of the many mountain cabins, or in the cosy atmosphere of a local guest house or restaurant. Guests may choose from a wide range of exciting activities: hiking, mountain climbing and biking in the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage, water-based treatments in the “Kneipp für mich®” Active Park, and relaxed days on the shores of a lake.

In addition to the Alta Pusteria, the Sesto Dolomites cable cars, too, form part of the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites, making it a perfect winter destination for skiers and snowboarders alike. In the Helm-Croda Rossa skiing region 32 cable cars provide access to snow-filled fun on 93 kilometres of perfectly groomed slopes. Five interconnected skiing mountains between South Tyrol and the Veneto plus convenient train connections with the Ski Pustertal Express offer further options, adding up to a total of 200 kilometres of slopes. A wide network of cross-country trails, snowshoeing, winter hiking and many other experiences complement the array of winter sports activities in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites, while families will enjoy features like gigantic snowmen, Italy’s only free-range herd of reindeers, ice-skating, or tobogganing.

Another romantic affair is a sleigh ride through the snow-covered landscape. Fast at times, then slow, to the rhythmic trudging sound of hooves the horse-drawn sleigh takes passengers to the Lago di Dobbiaco or the Val Fiscalina.

Pic Credits:  Ch.Tschurtschenthaler

INFO: Three Peaks/3 Zinnen in the Dolomites

 

Autumn Hiking Season in South Tyrol’s
Alta Pusteria Region

Published by Mountainblog on .

landschaft_dreizinnen_035_photogruener

Put on your walking shoes and march off: Autumn time is hiking time in South Tyrol’s Alta Pusteria. The region features a sheer endless array of sporting highlights like the Dolomites Alpine Week or the Dolomites autumn weeks, within a diverse choice of tours and beautiful views all around the landmark, the Three Peaks. A special highlight is also the “cable car journey to the sunrise”.

For the adventurous: The Dolomites Alpine Week
If the scent of autumn lies in the air, the South Tyrol’s Alta Pusteria attracts with numerous travelling packages at its townships Sesto/Sexten, San Candido/Innichen, Dobbiaco/Toblach, Villabassa/Niederdorf and Braies/Prags. From the 10th to the 24th of September the Dolomites alpine week provides the participants with a one-week activity programme, including hosted mountain hikes and half day hiking tours.

(c) Drei Zinnen AG_C. Tschurtschenthaler (1)

For beginners: The Dolomite autumn weeks
From 24th of September to the 16th of October 2016 guests of the participating accommodations can use numerous mountain railways free of charge to reach various starting points of marvellous hikes/wanderings.

For hiking lovers: Lodge tour to Rifugio Comici, Rifugio Pian di Cengia and Rifugio Locatelli hut
Stamina, perseverance and experience are demanded on the lodge tour to Rifugio Comici, Rifugio Pian di Cengia and Rifugio Locatelli hut. The 17 kilometre takes a minimum of seven hours and provides the hikers from June to October with the nicest view of the surrounding mountains.

Harald Wisthaler - wisthaler.com

For real perseverance junkies: Stoneman Hike Trail
The trekking tour features a 54 kilometre journey through South Tyrol’s Dolomites, on which several stamps at three checkpoints have to be collected. At the end of the tour hikers receive the Stoneman trophy. The starter package costs 39 euros per person.

For romantics: “Cable car journey to the sunrise”
The ride takes place until 15th of September 2016 and offers an unforgettable moment. At the break of sunrise the panoramic cable car Sexten takes visitors up to the 2,050 metres high mountain Monte Elmo/Helm. The ride costs 17,30 euros each.

Photos credits:
1) Consorzio Turistico Alta Pusteria photogruener
2) Drei Zinnen AG C.Tschurtschenthaler
3) Consorzio Turistico Alta Pusteria H.Wisthaler

INFO: Alta Pusteria