Dolomites Weekend Itinerary Offers Mix of Relaxation and Adventure
A three-day guide to experiencing the South Tyrolean Alps, featuring local cuisine, hiking, and wellness.
A weekend in the Dolomites offers a blend of natural beauty, culinary experiences, and relaxation, as detailed in a recent travel guide.
Friday
The journey begins with a two-hour drive from Verona to Hotel Saltus in South Tyrol, a family-owned establishment praised for its stunning views of the Dolomites.
In the evening, guests can experience the local cuisine, which reflects German and Austrian influences due to the region's proximity to those borders. A recommended meal includes gnocchi di polenta with parmesan, sea bream, and a Winkl Sauvignon Blanc 2024.
The hotel's design philosophy emphasizes 'nature is the ultimate luxury,' evident in its loggias with polished concrete floors, muted colors, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views.
Saturday
Saturday starts with an early morning Pilates class, followed by breakfast in the conservatory. The breakfast menu is à la carte, with options for homemade smoothies.
The day's main activity is a two-hour hike along a segment of the E5 trail, accessible by bus from Schermoos. Lunch is taken at the Gschnoferstall restaurant, noted for helping visitors acclimatize to the high altitude.
For dinner, the 13th-century Castel Rafenstein provides a rustic setting. The dining room, adorned with wood paneling, old photographs, and local art, is suggested as an ideal spot to enjoy apple strudel.
Sunday
Sunday offers a more tranquil experience, starting with a two-hour forest bathing session aimed at lowering blood pressure and promoting immersion in nature, which includes tree hugging.
Following the forest bathing, visitors can utilize the hotel's Forest Spa for a massage or hay sauna. The spa features an indoor pool with a sliding glass wall that leads to a 17-meter infinity Sky Pool, described as a magical experience.
The weekend concludes with a meal at the hotel's Saltino Bistro, which can deliver pizzas, including a ham and burrata option, to guests relaxing by the pool or on the Sky Terrace.