Discover the most beautiful corners of the Alps, those that can only be reached on foot: views that only people who are willing to make an effort can admire. Experience the excitement of reaching the top of a peak, of breathing light and fresh air, of seeing chamois running through the meadows … Put on comfortable shoes and prepare the backpack: here are five recommended walking routes across the Alpine Pearls.

1.Tremis di Cermignon – France

Stéphane Enten via Flickr

This Pearl, at the border with Val di Susa is surrounded by the majestic mountain peaks of the Vanoise National Park with its glaciers. You can explore intact nature, walking along the approximately 350km of paths through the wilderness Maurienne Vanoise. An unforgettable round-trip through the entire region is the Grand Tour de Haute Maurienne. The route is divided into ten stages, each lasting from 4 to 8 hours walking, crossing the most beautiful corners, including alpine huts, clear pools and stone villages. Depending on your freetime (…and your fitness!), you can decide whether to follow it enterely or only along some of the stages.

2. Val di Funes – Italy

Nicola Bursi Gandolfi via Flickr

Here we are, in South Tyrol, in the heart of Puez-Odle National Park, surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Dolomites standing inbetween candid blue skies and fresh green lawns. Trekking routes through the valley are really a lot and of course, after the effort you can enjoy excellent traditional dishes in cozy alpine huts! I suggest an original idea if you are on vacation with your children. The Mineral Museum of Tiso has created some walking paths to explore the geological and botanical characteristic of the territory. One of these is the circular path to the pond called “Mesner Lake”. It starts from the central square of the village of Tiso, heading north, toward a small lake. A comfortable path, that can be easily followed by strollers and wheelchairs, goes around the pond. There are also many benches from which you can enjoy the sun, watching at dragonflies dancing and listening to the concert of frogs, while your children are playing all around. Some fragments of rocks tell the geological history of the area. You can decide to go back passing through the “Kårrner Waldele” playground and the hill of “Schelmbühl”.

3. Mallnitz – Austria

ffgc.slf via Flickr

Take a walk through Hohe Tauern National Park, a real paradise for trekking lovers, with its three valleys, crossed by 200km of trails and walking paths even at high altitude. An interesting path is the “Roman trail”. It starts from Mallnitz and reaches Sportgastein following an ancient Roman road. Along the way you will also find references to the history of the place. Merge yourself with the nature of the Hohe Tauern and discover the consequences of climate change on the territory, including rocky moraines of ancient glaciers.

4. Arosa – Swiss

chripell via Flickr

A walking holiday in Arosa is ideal for those seeking tranquility. The particular position differentiates this Swiss Pearl from other hiking areas in the surroundings. Between the village of Arosa and Weißhorn meet unique limestone cliffs. This unusual combination is ideal for life of over 900 species of flowers, ferns, mosses and mushrooms. 200 km of walking and hiking trails are waiting for you to enjoy the unique spectacle of nature. Get an hiking map and start your journey through beautiful forests, with crystal clear alpine lakes or pointing up into the peaks of 3000 meters. Arosa expect you with hiking tours for all tastes!

5. Ceresole Reale – Italy

Associazione Amici del Gran Paradiso via Flickr

Let us move to Piedmont, in the Gran Paradiso National Park, between glaciers, cliffs and mountain peaks. Start your walk from Ceresole and hike through the park: this is one of the stages of the Grand Tour of Piedmont, an hiking trail through the Alps, from the Tanaro Valley to Lake Maggiore! Here is an interesting route from Ceresole (1584m), to Lake Dres (2087m) in 3 hours, following an easy path! The trail starts from the paved road along the south side of Lake Ceresole, in near of Villa Poma. The wide path, after about ten minutes forks, from one side to the Passo della Crocetta, the other towards Lake Dres and Refuge Leonesi. After passing the main stream, the trail winds within one of the most interesting coniferous forests of the Park, including larches, firs and stone pine. It continues in a picturesque expanse of pastures in the presence of the Eastern Levanna and you will reach the glacial basin filled by the lake, near which you can spot the common frog, the species that lays its eggs in mountain lakes above 2500 m quote!

Cover image: max guitare via Flickr

The article 5 walking routes in the Alps was originally posted on Ecobnb.

To discover foliage, the magic that transforms the trees creating colourful artworks, the woods under Pale di San Martino are the perfect place. Here you have 5 itineraries you cannot miss!

Autumn is one of the most charming seasons in the mountains. This thanks to the trees which lose thousands of colourful leaves and days that are chill in the morning and night, but warm during the day. The foliage of the trees during this period of the year takes different shades, from red to yellow and orange….is the magic of autumn!

Making you surrounded by the resin and musk smell. Hearing the crunch of the leaves under the feet and the noise of a stream that flows far away, walking among the warm colours of larches, firs, beeches and birches is a relaxing experience that makes you enter in contact with nature. Foliage is a show not just for the eyes but also for the soul. And if to this you add the beauty of the Dolomites, the result is astonishing! That’s why we suggest you five autumn itineraries in the Alpin Pearl of Primiero, San Martino di Castrozza.

1. Twists of time

This itinerary is more or less 7 kilometres long and it extends into the woods surrounding Sagron Mis. Is a place to discover – on foot or by horse – within the Natural Park Paneveggio Pale di San Martino and the National Park of the Bellunese Dolomites. To reach the path you can leave the car in the parking located close to Giasenei Chalet and Observatory Tower T3. Then you can enter the marvellous forest of firs and beeches. Here you can enjoy the colourful show of the leaves falling from the trees. This itinerary winds along old trails. Thanks to the 16 informative totems and 3 interpretative harps you can discover numerous stories and curiosities about the local population.

2. Cordognè San Giovanni

This path is located in half mountain. It goes up in the forests of one of the most charming villages in Italy: Mezzano. The itinerary has a ring shape and is possible to complete it in two hours and a half. We suggest you walk on this path during autumn since the foliage is spectacular during this season. Along the itinerary, there are various glimpses of Pale di San Martino, Pavione Mount, San Giovanni and the blue water of Val Nona lake. So this is the perfect place to take amazing pictures. Along the way, there are numerous benches where you can stop to enjoy this marvellousness.

3. Path of the giant trees

This path is named like that because it will make you discover secular trees, high 50 metres, that look like they are guarding Val Nona. Here you can find white and red larches, firs and beeches. These trees, during autumn, assume colours like fire and transform the landscape into a breathtaking view.
The path is divided into two parts, which both begin from the forestry house of Valpiana. The first itinerary is the shortest and is more or less 2,7 kilometres long. Is ideal for whoever wants to enjoy the silence and have a brief walk to enjoy the forest’s landscape. The second path is more or less 7,3 kilometres long. From it you can reach the pastures of Malga Val de Stua. This is for sure the most scenic point of the whole route. Here you can have the possibility to admire the landscape in the quiet and silence of nature. You will have an amazing view of the Primiero Valley with Pale di San Martino, Lagorai Mountain Chain and Feltrine Mountains in the background.

4. Capitel de la Fratta

This path is located outside of the most common routes, here is possible to find peace and silence. Anyway, you can find incredible glimpses also here. The path begins from the ancient rural village of Ronco Cainari, which makes you discover ancient traditions. Before entering the forest, you will find an ancient water mill that has been restored for educative purposes.

Later you will continue for an old path immersed in the wood. Here is possible to find various points where you can stop for a break and admire the surroundings. Larches, firs and beeches with their gold foliage create a suggestive scenario. Once you reach Capitello you can enjoy an amazing view of the Vanoi Valley on the spectacular Pale di San Martino.

5. Muse Fedaie’s path

This path is located in Val Canali. It extends into the surroundings of Villa Welsperg, the headquarters of the park Paneveggio Pale di San Martino. This itinerary is named like that because along it there are different “legni”, points dedicated to the goddesses of Greek mythology. These panels invite the hiker to think about biodiversity. They are meant also to have a break moment to admire the beauty of Pale di San Martino, which forms a natural amphitheatre.

Walking along this path is healthy for the soul and mind: here you can find an area where is possible to experiment with the Kneipp method. Here you can find also a sensorial path dedicated to the geological peculiarities of the place, where is possible to walk barefoot on 250 million years old rock. You cannot stop also at Welsperg lake. Here the Dolomites reflect in this little alpine lake, creating an amazing view with autumn colours.

So, are you impatient to enter the forest for a walk in the thousands of shades of foliage? Don’t forget your camera and leave for the adventure!

The article Foliage, what a passion! 5 autumn itineraries among Pale di San Martino, North Italy was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Do you love bikes and want to experience the emotion of an e-bike holiday in the enchanting scenery of the Dolomites? Get in the saddle and choose one of these amazing itineraries in San Martino di Castrozza, Primiero, and Vanoi!

Choosing a bike, mountain bike, or e-bike on holiday is the perfect way to live in an ecological way. In addition, it offers the possibility of discovering the area in a different and unique way.

Climbing high altitudes, cycling with the wind in your hair, admiring breathtaking landscapes. These experiences will give you intense emotions and a great feeling of freedom. Despite the idea of fatigue may scare you, there are e-bikes that, thanks to their electric motor, make cycling soft and comfortable everywhere. One of the ideal destinations for an e-bike holiday in the Dolomites is certainly San Martino di Castrozza, Primiero, and Vanoi. This destination is an Alpine Pearl of Trentino and promotes eco-sustainable mobility at 360 degrees. The Vanoi valley is also the location of the Vanoi E-bike Rally, the first event in Trentino dedicated entirely to electric bikes. Continue reading to discover some of the most beautiful itineraries in this area and how to recharge your e-bike along the way.

From March to October, the valleys of San Martino di Castrozza, Primiero, and Vanoi turn into a true paradise for cycling lovers. In the uncontaminated nature of the Paneveggio Pale di San Martino Nature Park, between the Lagorai mountain chains, the Vette Feltrine peaks, and the suggestive peaks of the Pale di San Martino, you can choose from hundreds of kilometers of routes of various difficulty levels, suitable for all abilities.

And if ride after ride your electric bike battery is low, no problem! Along the routes you will find various possibilities for recharging free your e-bike, and taking your power cable with you.

E-bike recharging points

Along the routes of San Martino di Castrozza, Primiero and Vanoi there are 3 possibilities to recharge your e-bike

• the public charging points installed by ACSM can be used in a free way only by downloading the Zeus app. The smartphone application allows you to select the recharging station from the map – or scan the QR-Code associated with the station itself – and follow the instructions that appear on your smartphone screen. In this way, you can unlock the recharging socket or the tool compartment. In fact, these recharging stations are complete with a tool compartment for small bike repairs.

• the recharging points of the Paneveggio Pale di San Martino Park Authority are located along the Caoria-Paneveggio cycle/pedestrian route and can be used free by asking the managers of the adjacent structures for the keys.

• recharging points installed by private operators and made available to customers of restaurants, hotels, and other accommodations facilities.

Vanoi E-bike itinerary

Surely, an event not to be missed by two-wheel enthusiasts is the Vanoi E-bike Rally. The first event in the Trentino region dedicated to electric mountain bikes takes place every year in july.

The location is the beautiful Vanoi Valley, with its enviable forest road network immersed in luxuriant fir and larch forests, part of which is within the Paneveggio Pale di San Martino Park.

Furthermore, this year, you will have the chance to choose between a short route (29 km green recreational-motor route) and a long route (53 km red recreational-motor route). The setting for this beautiful day of sport will naturally be the Pale di San Martino and the Lagorai porphyry mountain range, the horizon within which the registered bikers will move.

The event is designed for sportsmen and families. In fact, there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy moments of relaxation. In addition, there will be tastings of local products at the catering points along the circuit.

4 e-bike itineraries in San Martino, Primiero and Vanoi

Cycling peacefully from Imèr to San Martino, or climbing on two wheels through rhododendron, fir, and larch woods while enjoying spectacular views of the Dolomite peaks. The possibilities for discovering the Pale di San Martino area by e-bike are many. Here are 4 itineraries to take into consideration during your holiday.

1. E-Bike itinerary among the Vanoi malgas

Among pastures, streams, and uncontaminated forests, this mountain bike itinerary will take you to discover the suggestive Vanoi valley. Tour 2262 is a ring route of about 25 km, with a difference in the level of 1600 meters, among the mountains of the Lagorai range. During the route, you will be enchanted by the wild beauty of the Cauriol, Cardinal, and Cece mountains. Furthermore, you will admire the granite mass of the Cima d’Asta group and the magnificent Pale di S. Martino. Caoria War Museum and Vanoi Ecomuseum are two significant steps to immerse yourself in the history of the area.

More information

2. Between the villages and meadows of Vanoi

This longer itinerary, of approx. 46 km with a difference in the level of 1480 meters, passes through the vibrant villages and majestic forests of the Vanoi. During the route you will encounter the historic sawmill alla Veneziana di Valzanca. Besides, you will admire the Dolomite landscape from the belvedere at Malga Fiamena. Between one ride and the next, the steps that will make this tour unforgettable are the numerous refreshment points where you can taste the local products, such as the Malga Lozen or the Santa Romina agritourism.

More information

3. From refuge to refuge in the Primiero forests

Starting from the Schener Valley, which you follow until you reach Pontet, this 38 km ring route (dislevel 1,200 m) crosses really suggestive landscapes and leads you to Alpe Vederna. Here you can also admire the Vette Feltrine with Monte Pavione. The Val Noana, with its wilderness, crystal-clear water and views of the Dolomites, is the frame for the evocative bridge suspended on a rope that will lead you between refuges and alpine pastures to Fiera di Primiero.

Further information

4. Primiero – Passo Cereda: cycling through the most enchanting valleys of Trentino

Another path is Primiero Passo Cereda. This 35 km, medium-difficult itinerary offers incredible views of the southern sector of the Pale di San Martino. It starts from the villages of Primiero and cycling up to the Fedai and Le Vale areas,  you can appreciate the views of the mountains below and their majesty. During the route, you will arrive at Passo Cereda, a historic connection between Trentino and the Belluno area. The last destination of the route is Val Canali, home to the Pale di San Martino Natural Park. In this place, you can admire the Welsperg lake, a beautiful alpine stretch of water.

Further information

These are just some of the most suggestive mountain bike routes in San Martino di Castrozza, Primiero and Vanoi. There are many others that you can discover during your e-bike holiday!

Download the pdf map with all the e-bike and mtb itineraries

Cover photo: E-bike excursions with the Pale di San Martino in the background (ph. Enrica Pallaver)

The article E-Bike Holidays in the Dolomites: 4 itineraries not to be missed near the Pale di San Martino was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Looking for an eco-friendly hotel in Madonna di Campiglio? Surrounded by the nature of the Brenta Dolomites, the eco-hotel Gianna is the perfect place!

Wood-scented rooms, traditional Trentino dishes, and farm-to-table food. And also a wellness centre with a swimming pool where you can relax after long walks to discover the wonders of Adamello Brenta Park.

wellness centre Hotel Gianna

If you want to combine sustainability with a really regenerating holiday in the mountains, the Hotel Gianna is the solution for you.

This eco-sustainable hotel in Madonna di Campiglio is set in a large garden surrounded by trees. The hotel is characterized by wooden furniture typical of the mountains, a focus on ecology and waste reduction, and a warm and familiar welcome. In other words, it is the perfect location for a wellness and relaxation escape, in harmony with nature.

We had the pleasure of interviewing Christian Armani, owner, and manager of Hotel Gianna. Here is what he told us:

Christian and his family, owners of the Gianna Hotel

1. How was Hotel Gianna born and when did it receive the CETS-Quality Park label?

The hotel was founded on the initiative of my maternal grandparents in 1951. Since then, the business has been family-run. In the last twenty years, we have made an important commitment to environmental sustainability. Besides, we wanted to help reduce our ecological footprint and take concrete action to preserve the beautiful nature of Adamello Brenta Park. In 2012 we received the CETS-Quality Park label.

The Gianna Hotel has the CETS Quality Mark Adamello Brenta Park

2. What good sustainability practices have you adopted?

The main sustainability measures we have implemented are:

• Building thermal insulation to save energy
• Use of certified 100% renewable electricity (hydroelectric)
• Use of pellet boilers (compressed wood) for heating and water
• Automation and home automation to avoid energy waste
• Access to rooms with badges
• Gradual replacement of classic light bulbs with new low-consumption bulbs or LEDs
• Waste sorting
• Use of biodegradable or recyclable materials and products
• Where and when possible, purchase of local and Trentino food products
• Incentives to customers to use cars as little as possible
• Incentives to customers to walk or cycle
• Promotion of sustainable urban and extra-urban mobility thanks to territory cards (included in the cost of the stay or provided at a discounted price)
• Promotion of local culture and traditions
• We are members of the Group Friends of the Campiglio Trails
• We participate in the Dolomiti Natural Wellness program to promote wellness in contact with nature.

View from the top of Hotel Gianna

3. What do your guests appreciate most?

We get significant positive feedback from our guests about the reception service, especially the hospitality offered by the family and the staff.

Hotel restaurant and kitchen

In addition, our guests appreciate the quality of the cuisine and the cleaning. Those who stay with us particularly like the wellness centre inside the hotel, the private garden, and the beauty of the landscape.

Rooms equipped with natural materials in the Hotel Gianna

4. What slow itineraries (on foot, by e-bike..) do you recommend in the area?

It is surely worth taking a walk and visiting the Vallesinella waterfalls because they are an amazing spectacle.

Also, for sports enthusiasts, it is possible to go on a bicycle excursion to enjoy the beauties of Lake Valagola.

Vallesinella waterfalls. Photo via Wikimedia Commons

5. What does being part of the Adamello Brenta Nature Park and Ecobnb mean to you?

First of all, we are very proud to be part of a network of hospitality structures.

We do all this with the awareness that the territory can and must be used to create value without compromising it, but protecting it for future generations.

Garden of Hotel Gianna

What are you waiting for? If you want to enjoy a sustainable and relaxing holiday in Madonna di Campiglio, this is the perfect address!

The article Hotel Gianna, the address for your Eco-Friendly Holiday in Madonna di Campiglio was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Hundreds of paths, forest roads, mule tracks, via ferratas allow us to enter the woods, meadows and rocky mountains of Belluno Dolomites National Park. Established in 1990 and Unesco heritage since 2009, the Park, still little known today, reserves shows of great beauty every day.

What to see in Belluno Dolomites National Park

Photo via Canva Pro

Belluno Dolomites National Park extends for more than 31 thousand hectares in the southernmost part of Dolomites, within the province of Belluno. What strikes first of all is the great variety of environments: from broad-leaved woods to coniferous forests, from high-altitude shrubs to grasslands, in a territory that develops from 400 to 2500 meters above sea level. It is therefore not surprising that there is so much to do and see inside the park.

Photo via Canva Pro

A gateway is represented by Lake Mis. Artificial, it takes its name from the river that forms it and fascinates for the perfect combination of colors and for how Monti del Sole are reflected in its water. From here it is then easy to reach the Cadini del Brenton, an enchanting set of small waterfalls that connect a series of caves. Do not miss the Bus del Buson, a suggestive canyon with looming rock walls. There is also the wonderful Cajada forest, also known as the “Bosco della Serenissima”.

Photo via Canva Pro

Nature offers an incredible spectacle every step you take, leaving you speechless in front of an uncontaminated beauty. But the Belluno Dolomites National Park also preserves fascinating villages, real artistic and historical jewels and enchanting towns. How not to visit Belluno, an enchanting Alpine city with beautiful squares and fascinating buildings? Feltre awaits you with its museums, its theater and its unique atmosphere. Also worth seeing at any cost is the Certosa di Vedana, a beautiful monastic complex, and the Mines of Valle Imperina, an ancient mining center that marked the history of these places.

The animals you can meet while walking in the park

Photo via Canva Pro

The great variety of environments allows the Park to host a rich fauna. 115 species of birds, 3,000 chamois and more than 2,000 roe deer, 100 species of butterflies make these places even more fascinating.

The flowers and trees of Belluno Dolomites National Park

Photo via Canva Pro

One of the main scientific reasons for the birth of the Belluno Dolomites National Park is the great wealth and rarity of its flora. Since 1700, important botanists from all over the world went to these places to discover rare and native species. Rhododendrons, thistles, edelweiss and 1000 other wonderful species await you.

The flavors you must taste in the villages and towns

Photo via Canva Pro

Radicchio, cheeses from alpine farm, polenta, roe deer meat, casunziei ravioli, pumpkin and grappa: the Belluno table does not disappoint anyone, combining the rustic character of mountain with pure and simple flavors.

Your green stay in the park

In Belluno Dolomites National Park you will find numerous eco-sustainable accommodation facilities. For example, there is Casa Novecento, in Feltre, the B&B Terra e Nubi which offers free bikes, the welcoming Villa Chele, the Altonon Hostel and the Tiny House of the B&B Giardini dell’Ardo in Belluno.

The hike trails you can’t miss

Photo via Canva Pro

The Park is crossed by the Alte Vie delle Dolomiti n. 1 and n. 2, a network of over 200 kilometers of CAI trails and numerous other routes. Starting from Val Canzoi you can reach the Feltre bivouac, on the tracks of the chamois and through breathtaking landscapes. The via ferratas of the Schiara are wonderful, but very demanding. For the less experienced, on the other hand, I recommend the C.A.I. No. 523.

The article Nature and villages of Belluno Dolomites National Park was originally posted on Ecobnb.

A stunning natural oasis, charming mountains, e-bikes itineraries, paths for everybody and ancient villages to visit. Let’s go and discover lake Nembia in Trentino!

Lake Nembia is not as famous as other lakes in Trentino (north Italy), like for instance the near Lake Molveno. However, you really should visit this unspoiled place surrounded by nature and close to Adamello Brenta Park, the biggest protected area of Trentino.

Surrounded by the iconic Dolomites – which are, according to Le Corbusier, the most beautiful architectures in the world – you can have unique experiences, such as wandering in woods or on the banks of the lake. Going for walks, riding your bike, sampling the local cuisine, visiting ancient villages… here you can do a lot of interesting activities. Keep reading to discover more!

Eco-friendly holidays at lake Nembia

Photo by Michele Zeni Archivio Parco Naturale Adamello Brenta

Lake Nembia is the perfect place where you can spend a relaxing weekend in touch with nature. The flat area surrounding the lake and the crystal-clear water make this place ideal for children and grown-ups and their pets. During summer it is perfect for a break after a tiring walk since the lake is not deep and you can swim in it. During autumn you can admire the stunning woods with their bright and warm colours.

1. Walks for everybody in the natural oasis of lake Nembia

Photo by Wolfgang Gafriller on Flickr

The area surrounding the lake is flat, so everyone can go for pleasant walks, from families with the stroller to people with wheelchairs. The path around the lake is 3 km long and enables visitors to admire closely the beauty of the lake and the wood. WWF has created the natural oasis of Lake Nembia in order to protect the lake and the species that live there.  A path is equipped with explanatory tables so that you can find out about the animals that live in the woods and the trees that you can notice by looking around.  This walk requests one hour and a half.

2. I Sentieri dei piccoli camminatori: paths for baby hikers

These paths are dedicated to children and their families. In fact, kids are encouraged to interact in order to actively discover interesting facts about the place they are visiting. The Italian writer Stefano Bordiglioni has written a different tale for each path that you can download and listen to while walking. The lake Nembia path’s name is “Piccole baite addossate alle rocce”.  Along the way, you can notice dry stone walls that lead to typical houses made of stone, which are associated with the tale of the Three Little Pigs.

3. Mountain-bike rides in the Adamello Brenta Park

Photo by Di U. J. Alexander via Canva

If you prefer, you can go around the lake by bike. But if you like having thrilling experiences with your bike it doesn’t end here. In fact, lake Nembia is an excellent starting point to go and discover the wonderful Brenta Dolomites due to its strategic position.

Photo of Shelby Smith via Unsplash

Moreover, starting from lake Nembia you can reach San Lorenzo in Banale by travelling along a 14 km path. The path consists of an ancient street built in 1921 that is characterised by tunnels carved in stone and stunning landscapes.

4. Reach Lake Molveno

Photo by FrankPr su Flickr

From lake Nembia you can reach on foot or by bike Lake Molveno. This itinerary is very evocative and easy; it takes about four hours. The itinerary is completely immersed in lush wood. Moreover, from this path, you can admire breath-taking spots of Brenta Dolomites and a panoramic view of Lake Molveno. Here you can find more about this incredible itinerary.

5. Discover San Lorenzo in Banale

Lake Nembia is close to San Lorenzo in Banale which is a village that features in the list of the most beautiful places in Italy. It is a very particular village where different realities coexist. In fact, it originated from the union of seven ancient feuds and, for this reason, each district has its own little church, saint and traditions. In the streets of this fascinating village, you can notice perfectly preserved ancient buildings that tell the history of the territory.

6.  Visit the ancient village of Rango

Photo by Massimo Telò on Wikimedia

Another suggestive village close to Lake Nembia is Rango. It also ranks in the list of the most beautiful places in Italy. In the village, you can see stunning buildings where cobs are placed to ripen in autumn. Moreover, in winter they host Christmas markets.

7. Stay in a green accommodation

This area boasts a lot of accommodations, whose commitment to the environment and respect for nature are proven by CETS Qualità Parco Adamello Brenta label. By staying in these accommodations you can actively contribute to the protection of this territory. You can have an unforgettable experience, such as staying in an eco-chalet, sampling a local breakfast, or hiking with alpacas.

• Garnì Lago Nembia: as the name suggests, this hotel is a stone’s throw from the lake. This eco-friendly accommodation is the perfect starting point for hikes in the Brenta Dolomites and to discover tourist resorts such as Molveno and Andalo. Here you can sample typical dishes made with local ingredients.
• Spiaggia Camping: for camping lovers this campsite on the banks of lake Molveno is perfect. It offers not only a dedicated area for tents and campers but also charming wood little villas. A lot of services to make your stay as pleasant as possible are also available.
• Agriturismo Athabaska: this holiday farm is in San Lorenzo in Dorsino. Here you can spend a relaxing holiday in touch with a lot of animals, such as llamas, alpacas, and sleigh dogs. This accommodation offers home-grown fruits and vegetable

8. Sample local specialties

Strudel – photo on Wikimedia

Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local dishes!

Canederli is a timeless classic that you can’t miss. It’s a traditional dish made with leftover bread. You can have them in broth or with butter, speck and sausage. They are also served with spinaches, beets or nettles.

If you are particularly glutton, you have to taste tortei di patate, which is a little croquette made with potatoes served with ham, cheese and beans.

Another local dish is polenta e capus. Capus is the green cabbage, which is cooked for a long time with sausages and cheese crusts. Because of the slow cooking, the cabbage takes the flavour of the meat. This dish is often served with polenta.

And for dessert? Strudel, of course! This local cake is made of a puff pastry shell stuffed with apples. You can also add walnuts, pine nuts, raisin and cinnamon.

9. Unmissable events

Suoni delle Dolomiti 2017

Suoni delle Dolomiti is a music festival that is held every summer since 1995 on the Dolomites of Trentino. You can attend a lot of different concerts performed by well-known artists. Their performances take places in stunning high-altitude landscapes, making the events even more evocative and unforgettable.

There, in autumn the festival of the ciuiga takes place. It is the typical dish of San Lorenzo in Banale and it is a sausage made with pork meat and turnips that you can taste both raw and baked. Moreover, several side dishes are proposed in order to enhance the flavors.

At the end of summer, you can attend the Dolomites Holistic Festival. You can recharge your batteries and relax in the fresh air through holistic experiences.

Not far from lake Nembia you can also visit Stenico Castle. This castle is one of the locations of the Buonconsiglio museum of Trento. This castle often hosts concert and other interesting cultural and artistic events.

10. Unwind at lake Nembia

There is no doubt that lake Nembia offers a lot of activities for the whole families, from mountain bike paths to ones for children.

But if you just want to recharge your batteries, the banks of this lake are the perfect place to unwind! In fact, there you can find wood jetties and a playground for children. While they are playing safely, you can relax, sunbathe and read a good book. In summer the lake is bathing, so you can swim in its crystal-clear water.

Moreover, there you can fish all year round. Discover more by reading the regulation of the lake.

Photo by Michele Zeni Archivio Parco Naturale Adamello Brenta

How to reach lake Nembia

By train, you can reach lake Nembia from Trento station. There you can book a shuttle (timetable and conditions are available here). Alternatively, you can take the line buses. The lines available are line 201 from Trento to Ponte Arche and line 208 from Ponte Arche to San Lorenzo in Banale/lake Nambia.

By car, after quitting the motorway in Trento you have to follow the signs to Val di Sole / Val di Non / Altopiano della Paganella. When in Andalo, continue to lake Molveno. There, follow the signs to San Lorenzo in Banale.

Otherwise, coming from Ponte Arche you have to follow the signs to San Lorenzo in Banale and then to lake Nembia.

Cover image by Michele Zeni on Flickr 

The article Lake Nembia: 10 Things to do During a Weekend was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Cadore is a destination full of charm and beauty. On the border with Austria, in the northernmost part of the province of Belluno, this Venetian land offers various itineraries to be covered on foot. From Lake Misurina, to the peaks of Nuvolau, Pelmo, and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, you can walk and discover incredible corners of nature. Not to mention the charm of the Dolomites at sunset!

Let’s start to discover the 10 most beautiful itineraries of Cadore.

1. Trekking from Pieve to the Tita Barba Refuge

Photo by CanvaPro

It starts from the left Piave in the municipality of Domegge of Cadore. If you arrive by car, follow the road that leads to the Padov refuge and park in Antarigole at an altitude of 1100 meters. From here the beautiful walking itinerary starts, which climbs into the woods up to Casera Vedorcia, where there are the first views of the Spalti di Toro. Continuing the walk, you will arrive at the Tita Barba refuge, which is located at an altitude of 1800 meters. Here you can take a detour to admire the beautiful panorama of the Centro Cadore lake.

• Duration: 5 hours
• Difficulty: hiking / difficult
• Altitude difference: 800m

Why do we like it? Well, the answer is very simple, because it offers us a beautiful view of the Dolomites.

2. Walk to the Chiggiato Refuge

Photo by CanvaPro

The meeting point for the departure is the Pineta bar. Walk for 15 minutes along the stream and then take the path N260, which climbs into the woods. The wood, all uphill, will be the main point that divides the path from the Chiggiato refuge, after two hours of walking. Here we find a breathtaking view that extends over the Marmarole group, Antelao, and the Centro Cadore lake. To go back, follow the path N261, where continuing along the road you arrive at the starting point.

• Duration: 5/6 hours
• Difficulty: medium
• Altitude difference: 800m

Why do we like it? Because it has a beautiful view of the Marmarole mountains, Antelao.

3. Itinerary on Monte Rite

Photo by CanvaPro

It starts in the locality of Quattro Tabià, then continues along the path 494 which climbs into the woods up to the saddle of Val Inferna at 1748 meters. Continue along path 478 which climbs up to the Deona fork, from where you begin to see fabulous views of the Pelmo and Val Boite. Proceeding for a while longer you reach the military road that takes us to the top of the mountain, where the Dolomites refuge and also the Messner Museum are located. For the return, follow the same path.

• Duration: 4/5 hours
• Difficulty: medium
• Altitude difference: 750m

Why do we like it? Because we can admire the fabulous views over the Pelmo and Val Boite.

4. From Borca di Cadore to the Re De Assola waterfall and Malga Ciauta

Photo by CanvaPro

It starts from Borca of Cadore at the parish of Saints S. Simone and Taddeo. Then we proceed by crossing the bridge over the Boite stream, and on the left we will find the path to the waterfall, while on the right the CAI path N476. The two paths are parallel, separated only by the stream. Once you have visited the waterfall, continue on the path until you reach the road that leads from Vodo di Cadore to Malga Ciauta located at the foot of Mount Pelmo. To return, follow path 475 which descends along with the wood.

• Duration: 4/5 hours
• Difficulty: medium
• Altitude difference: 642m

Why do we like it? Because it offers us a beautiful waterfall and wonderful views.

5. From the Costapiana Refuge to the S. Dionisio Church

Church of San Donisio at Cadore, photo by http://www.valledicadoredolomiti.it/

From Valle di Cadore you drive up to the Costapiana refuge up to a bend with a fountain. Here you leave the car and continue on foot to the refuge. You will see wonderful views of Pelmo and Antelao. From the refuge continue towards path 251 and climb up to the small church of S. Dionisio from where you can admire a splendid panorama.

• Duration: 4/5 hours
• Difficulty: medium
• Altitude difference: 800m

Why do we like it? Here too, because we can admire the wonderful views of Pelmo and Antelao.

6. Itinerary around the Auronzo Lake

Photo by CanvaPro

Lake Auronzo is an attraction not to be missed, you can enjoy the completely natural environment of Cadore. It can be visited both in winter and in summer. During the summer you can sunbathe on the beaches, while during the winter you can admire the beautiful snow-covered landscape. To get to the lake, start from Piazza Vigo in Auronzo, and follow the road signs for the lake. If we want we can stop at the lake or continue along the two bridges and get to the S. Caterina dam. From there you return to the starting point along the path on the other side of the lake.

• Duration: 2 hours
• Difficulty: easy

Why do we like it? Because we can enjoy a beautiful view of both the lake and the surrounding mountains.

7. Trekking to Pian dei Buoi

Photo by Wikipedia

Pian dei Buoi is a plateau still used today for grazing cattle during the summer, at 1800m. It can be reached via the road from the town of Lozzo di Cadore and climbs to the top. Once we arrive on the plateau we enjoy a beautiful view of the surrounding Dolomite valleys until we see the Antelao, the Tre Cime di Lavarendo, the Crosa dei Toni and the whole Marmolane group.

Why do we like it? For the breathtaking view of the beautiful Tre Cime di Lavarendo and the Crosa dei Toni.

8. Itinerary to discover the ancient thermal baths of Bagni di Gogna

In Gogna, there are a series of paths that lead us to the ancient baths of Gogna. You can see the remains of the flooring of the factory and two stone basins. Along the various paths you pass near two springs of spring water and walk through the woods famous for their bond. Going behind the White Bar you arrive at a small church, where the thermal area descends from here.

• Duration: 1 hour
• Difficulty: easy

Why do we like it? Because we can discover the mysterious history of these ancient baths surrounded by greenery.

9. Tre Cime di Lavaredo trekking

Photo by CanvaPro

All the beauty of the Dolomites can be admired at the foot of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, long stretches of white and pink mountains. This beauty leaves anyone who walks the road that surrounds the Three Peaks breathless. The whistling of the marmots interrupts the silence that surrounds them. The departure and arrival of this circular excursion, suitable for expert walkers, is the Auronzo refuge (2333 m).

Map by mountain.tv

• Duration: 4 h
• Altitude difference: 450 m
• Difficulty: hiking / difficult

Why do we like it? Because we can admire the shapes and colors of the Dolomites up close.

10. Walk to the Lago del Centro Cadore

Lake in the center of Cadore, photo by CanvaPro

There are no words to describe how much beauty this lake offers us. The ideal is to stop and sunbathe on the shores or take long walks. From Domegge di Cadore you can go down to the lake after crossing the bridge you can take the road to the left that reaches Lorenzago di Cadore. Along this path, you can stop for picnics and paths that take us to high altitudes. Also from Domegge a flat road leads to the hamlet of Vallesella with the park, where parties and dance evenings are often organized.

• Duration: 1 hour
• Difficulty: easy

Why do we like it? Because it is an easy itinerary, suitable for everyone, and perfect for spending a relaxing day, sunbathing on the lake.

Eco-friendly holiday in Cadore

Where to sleep eco-friendly? If you decide to stop in Cadore for several days, to discover all the most beautiful itineraries, you will find numerous eco-sustainable accommodation facilities in which to stay. Eco-hotel with beautiful wooden rooms, vegan bio-farmhouses, small chalets in the woods, ecological B & Bs in ancient villages, and refuges at the foot of the Dolomites.

Info: interactive map of all the itineraries, hiking trails, and via ferratas of the Cadore Center.
Cover image: Alessandro Carrarini

The article Cadore: guide to the 10 most beautiful walking itineraries was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Immersed in the fresh alpine air, located at 1020m above sea level, Tires al Catinaccio is a dream for all mountain lovers. In this cozy alpine destination of the South Tyrol, you can enjoy magnificent views on the Dolomites.

photo by gengish skan via Flickr

Around Tires there are also other little towns to visit: San Cipriano, Bagni di Lavina Bianca and Laghetto Aica di Fiè. Scillar, Catinaccio, Roda di Vael, Vajolet Towers are just some of the famous peaks that you can admire and explore in the surroundings.

1. Summer in Tires

Tires is the ideal place for an active holiday in the nearby Scillar-Catinaccio Natural Park: here hikers will find excursions of all kinds, along well-marked paths, towards alpine huts or towering peaks. Park guides will also take you to discover the natural beauties of these places. In the evening if you are lucky, you will be able to admire the Dolomites tinging with pink!

The Visitor Center of the Sciliar-Catinaccio Natural Park of Tires is set in an old water mill that operated an ancient sawmill. I recommend a visit, just to admire this testimony of the past!

During the summer, Tires streets are filled with mountaineers looking for adventures on the magnificent dolomite walls: from ferry routes, connecting isolated alpine huts to peaks, to climbing routes, from historic to modern ones. You can not miss the edges of the Vjolet Towers or the routes traced on the imposing south wall of the Catinaccio!

Not to be missed are the many events organized in Tires, the dolomitic country of mountaineers. One of them is the “Nights of Montanari”, street parties with music and culinary specialties in the area, which take place between the end of July and the beginning of August.

2. Winter in Tires

Fun in this Alpine resort is also guaranteed during winter. The surrounding landscapes are covered with soft snow and its candor makes it all the more fascinating.

Cuddled by the heat of wood stoves or the steam of traditional saunas, you can forget every stress. If you are looking for active holidays, Tres is the right place to start your exploration also in this season! Put on snowshoes and get ready to go hiking. The trail network includes 60 km of perfectly prepared winter itineraries and 50 km of marked paths for snowshoe excursions. Local guides also organize night tours to watch the stars.

On the Alpe di Siusi, not far from Tires, there is also the Val Gardena/Alpe di Siusi ski area with 175 km of slopes and 80 ski lifts, equipped with modern safety devices for children. Fun is guaranteed!

Cover image: Tiziano Sartori via Flickr

The article Tires al Catinaccio: in the heart of the Dolomites was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Get ready for an unforgettable green holiday in South Tyrol, between the Fanes-Senes-Braies and the Puez-Odle nature parks to explore the wonders of the Dolomites and discover the Ladin culture.

Photo by Robert J Heath via Flickr

The karstic landscapes of the Fanes-Senes-Braies nature park that always surprise you, the magical Lake of Braies, the nature trail of Zannes, also available by wheelchair, and then 250 kilometers of bike paths and the Ladin Culture Museum in San Martino in Badia: this is the holiday that awaits you in this magical corner of South Tyrol, between a spectacular nature and a culture to discover.

Not everyone knows it, but in this corner of South Tyrol there are still people who speak a much older language than Italian and pass on from generation to generation old traditions and customs. We are talking about the Ladies of the Dolomites, a people proud of their identity and traditions, who lives in the four valleys around the Sella Group (Val Badia, Val Gardena, Val di Fassa, Livinallongo Valley), Colle Santa Lucia and in the Ampezzan basin (Cortina).

To explore the scenery of the Dolomites and to breathe the Ladin culture, my suggestion is to start discovering San Vigilio di Marebbe and San Martino in Badia, which represent the Ladin part of the tourist region of Plan de Corones. The two picturesque villages are located between two of the most beautiful natural parks of the Dolomites, the Fanes-Senes-Braies nature park and the Puez-Odle park. They offer numerous hiking opportunities, a ski area and a chance to discover Ladin culture in the museum housed in Ćiastel de Tor in San Martino and the Ladin Institute “Micurà de Rü”. The two resorts are immersed in wild and uncontaminated landscapes that will surprise every type of traveler and offer the chance to fully experience the Ladin culture, discovering its typical warm welcome, the cuisine that can create superb dishes starting from poor ingredients, the old trades and crafts and the often difficult life of the Dolomites.

A green holiday between the Dolomites

In San Vigilio di Marebbe you will find a beautiful and modern Bed & Breakfast that respects the environment and where you can savor the natural pleasure of time. After a night in one of the five rooms available in the B&B Les Gomines, all equipped and with private bathroom, you will be pampered with a breakfast based on genuine, organic or local produces and made up of typical sweets, jams and home-made syrups , homemade yoghurt, delicious toast and sandwiches, organic cereals, organic eggs, local and/or organic honey, selection of seeds, berries and delicacies, local cheeses, fresh bread, fresh fruit, wide selection of hot drinks, tea selection and fresh fruit centrifuges.

Cover photo by Eric Huybrechts via Flickr

The article Green holiday between the two most beautiful natural parks in the Dolomites was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Ever wondered what it’s like to sleep out in the open, under the stars? Well, someone did and went even further in designing and realizing homes that are purpose-built for sleeping in the open air in the woods.

A room in the wood

A few years ago, the Serpentine pavilion project in Hyde Park won the Chilean architect Smiljan Radic the applause of design fans all over Europe.
But Smiljan Radic had already been designing innovative projects and prototypes long before that.
“The room” is one of these projects: the room-sized house is mainly composed of a rectangular structure whose walls are just wooden shelves coated with a transparent material.
You can either leave the shelves empty or load them with your books and memorabilia so as to make each inch of the walls your own.
The second floor is created by placing a red tent on the rectangular structure, to achieve a kind of circus atmosphere, with an intimate red-tinted feel to it.
Find a wood, move “The room” around and treat yourself to a magic night.

Under a blanket of stars in a bubble

Pierre Stephane Dumas is a French designer who has achieved the impossible: he combined his passion for aesthetics and his interest in nature and its preservation. The result is the CrystalBubble room– a room made of a special plastic-reinforced cover, wholly or partially transparent, like you are “sleeping under a blanket of stars”.

He went even further by creating the Bubble room- partly opaque and resembling a nest. And then there’s the Bubble Drop, which is totally white except for a transparent round window at the top of it and a line of tiny windows all along its perimeter. It’s the ideal place for your meditation sessions or even for an unconventional meeting.

In Italy, a night in the woods in a bubble suite can be experienced in Sicily in an organic farmhouse surrounded by greenery in the Messina countryside.
Though a little expensive (around € 8,000), you can book a BubbleRoom for just one night at a more affordable price (starting from €130 for 1 night for a double room.). The organic and zero km breakfast (seasonal fruit, Sicilian ancient grain bread, organic jams, fresh eggs, etc.) and the guided tour of the farm are included.

The green village

Waking up in the branches of a large oak, surrounded by greenery … A mirage?

Across Europe, the possibilities for sleeping in a real treehouse are countless. Made of entirely natural and eco-friendly materials, these small shelters ensure the protection of the trees and the surrounding nature.

The cost? They range from € 150 for one night for 2 people in the tree house of Bocchineri estate, in Calabria.

Cover image: Photo by Simon Wilkes on Unsplash

The article Sleeping in the Open Air: Tree Houses, Blubblehomes and More was originally posted on Ecobnb.