Italy is blessed with many beautiful regions, yet few combine such magnificent mountain scenery with a fascinating cultural heritage as South Tyrol. Framed by the soaring peaks of the Dolomites and the Italian Alps, this autonomous province is a landscape of vineyards, magnificent gardens, peaceful valleys and handsome towns where the influence of both Italy and Austria is evident at every turn. Although South Tyrol has been part of Italy for more than a century, much of the population still speaks German as a first language and the region’s distinctive identity is reflected in its architecture, traditions, cuisine and way of life.
This new escorted tour has been devised to combine guided excursions with ample time at leisure, allowing you to appreciate the beauty, history and culture of South Tyrol at a relaxed pace. Our exploration of the region will include time discovering the elegant towns of Bolzano, Merano, Bressanone and Vipiteno, each with its own unique character and history. We will visit the magnificent Trauttmansdorff Gardens overlooking Merano, enjoy a full day journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Dolomites and explore the historic Abbazia di Novacella where we will learn about the region’s excellent local wines and enjoy a tasting. We have chosen the elegant Parkhotel Laurin as the base for our stay, ideally located in the heart of Bolzano and perfectly placed for exploring the surrounding region.
Parkhotel Laurin
The elegant four-star Parkhotel Laurin is located in the heart of Bolzano and provides the perfect base from which to discover the stunning South Tyrol region. Built in 1910, the hotel has been lovingly restored to showcase its Art Nouveau architecture and houses an extensive collection of 20th century art. There are numerous sculptures and paintings on display, as well as wonderful frescoes in the Laurin Bar. The hotel also features a peaceful garden with an outdoor swimming pool, providing a tranquil retreat after a day of exploration.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Bolzano, Italy.
Fly by scheduled flight to Verona and on arrival transfer to our hotel in Bolzano. Meet this evening for a welcome drink and dinner. (D)
Day 2 Bolzano & Caldaro.
This morning on a guided walking tour we will discover the unique blend of Italian and Austrian culture that defines this elegant Alpine town. Beginning in the historic centre at Piazza Walther, we stroll under the characteristic arcades of Via dei Portici, a charming Medieval street lined with boutiques and cafés, to the Duomo di Bolzano, with its richly decorated roof and beautiful frescoes. Visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to Otzi the Iceman, Europe’s oldest known human mummy. After a local lunch we will travel the short distance through vineyards and orchards to the picturesque village of Caldaro, where we will discover the winemaking tradition of the region. View the production areas and historic cellars and learn about the grape varieties found here, including the red Lagrein and white Pinot Blanc, before we enjoy a tasting along with some regional specialities. We will stop to enjoy views over Lake Caldaro, one of the largest lakes in the area, before returning to Bolzano for an evening at leisure. (B, L)
Day 3 Trauttmansdorff Gardens & Merano.
This morning we take a scenic journey to the elegant spa town of Merano where we will find the Trauttmansdorff Gardens. Located just above the town on a sun-drenched slope, these botanical gardens offer a journey from Mediterranean terraces to exotic and Alpine landscapes, complemented by spectacular panoramic views over Merano and the surrounding mountains. Overlooking the gardens is Trauttmansdorff Castle, now home to a museum narrating 250 years of tourism in the Alpine region. Continue into the town of Merano, where we will stop for a light lunch before taking a stroll along the Passeggiata Lungo Passirio, a riverside promenade lined with palm trees and flowers and through the historic centre with its Belle Epoque architecture. Return to Bolzano for some free time before we meet for dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Bolzano.
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore further at your own pace. Perhaps take the Ritten cable car to the Renon Plateau for the spectacular views, or visit some of the other Bolzano museums including the Museo Civico and the Natural History Museum. Meet this evening for dinner at the hotel. (B, D)
Day 5 The Dolomites.
Our full day excursion into the Dolomites begins with a scenic journey through iconic Alpine landscapes to the charming village of Ortisei, known for its traditional woodcarving, which we will explore on a short walking tour. Continue uphill to the spectacular Pordoi Pass, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Sella massif and surrounding peaks. Choose to ride the cable car to the summit or take a walk to the imposing German War Memorial. From here we pass through traditional Ladin villages and descend into Val di Fassa where we stop for a light lunch. In the afternoon we continue to Lake Carezza. Although one of the smaller lakes in the region, it is famous for its beautiful crystal-clear, iridescent waters and reflections of the surrounding Latemar peaks. We will take a walk around the lakeside trail before completing our circular itinerary, admiring the ever-changing scenery on the drive back to Bolzano. Meet this evening for dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 6 Bressanone & Abbazia di Novacella.
Today our journey takes us north to the Isarco Valley and the town of Bressanone, one of the oldest in the Tyrol. Our guided walk will take us through the arcaded streets and lively squares to the majestic cathedral complex with its Romanesque cloister and beautifully preserved frescoes. There will be some free time to shop or enjoy a coffee and cake at one of the many cafés in the town. From here it is a short drive to Abbazia di Novacella, one of the most important monastic complexes in the Alps. Founded in the 12th century, the abbey is still active today and during our visit we will see the Baroque church, historic library and the picturesque courtyards surrounded by vineyards and orchards. The estate has a long tradition of viticulture and we will have the opportunity to taste some of the wines produced here in this peaceful and scenic setting. Return to Bolzano where the remainder of the day and evening are at leisure. (B)
Day 7 Vipiteno.
This morning we will visit Vipiteno, also known as Sterzing, one of the most charming Medieval towns in South Tyrol. Stroll through its historic centre and admire the pastel-coloured facades, ornate wrought-iron signs and elegant town squares. Stop for a traditional light lunch at a local restaurant, which will include authentic South Tyrolean specialities such as speck, a cured ham combining Mediterranean air-curing traditions with Alpine smoking techniques. Return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure before we meet for our farewell dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 8 Bolzano to London.
Check out after breakfast and transfer to Verona airport for our scheduled flight to London. (B)
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 12 to 19 June 2028 • 4 to 11 September 2028 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Superior Room | £4295 | |
| Deluxe Room | £4495 | |
| Junior Suite | £4995 | |
| Standard Room for sole use | £4995 | |
Tour Reference Code: LATYROL
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Seven nights hotel accommodation at the Parkhotel Laurin, Bolzano • Meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner) • Wine, beer and soft drinks with included lunches & dinners • Excursions as described • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
NB: A good level of fitness and mobility is required to fully enjoy this holiday. Day 5 includes a full day excursion in the Dolomites, where we will reach an altitude of up to 3,000 metres. Group Size: We are restricting the group size to just 25 participants.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Parkhotel Laurin
The elegant four-star Parkhotel Laurin is located in the heart of Bolzano and provides the perfect base from which to discover the stunning South Tyrol region. Built in 1910, the hotel has been lovingly restored to showcase its Art Nouveau architecture and houses an extensive collection of 20th century art. There are numerous sculptures and paintings on display, as well as wonderful frescoes in the Laurin Bar. The hotel also features a peaceful garden with an outdoor swimming pool, providing a tranquil retreat after a day of exploration.
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