Itinerary

Days 1-2 Hidden valleys, fairy-tale villages and majestic mountains in a multicultural mosaic Accompanied by views of the Sciliar massif, picnic at a 13th-century Gothic castle Hike into the hills above the picturesque village of Fiè allo Sciliar Ride chairlifts, then hike past grassy meadows,pine forests and alpenrose (rhododendron) In an amphitheater of soaring limestone peaks, we gather at a mountain rifugio for a home-cooked lunch of canederli, speck, polenta and other local favorites Taste regional vintages in our hotel’s wine cellar.

Days 3-4 Explore dazzling Puez-Odle Natural Park, one of the most pristine areas of the Dolomites, keeping an eye out for chamois, mountain pheasants, eagles and marmots  A chairlift whisks us to the tiny white 15th-century Santa Croce chapel Our friend Heidi shares insight into the distinct language, culture and customs of the Ladin people  Enjoy Michelin-starred cuisine at St. Hubertus in San Cassiano.

Days 5-6 Dramatic views of the Cinque Torri, a collection of towering stone pinnacles Ascend to Rifugio Nuvolau for staggering vistas en route to an impressive World War I open-air museum  Cortina d’Ampezzo, a sophisticated - and distinctly Italian - ski village set beneath a battlement of stunning mountain peaks, invites a stroll  Ascend by cable car for a hike and perhaps a cappuccino at a rifugio with 360-degree valley views.

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