Route
This journey links Salzburg and Innsbruck with the tranquillity of Lake Achensee and the alpine landscapes of South Tyrol, ending among the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites.
Pace
The trip starts in the city, shifts to a peaceful lakeside setting and finishes in the mountains. Distances are manageable and each place has enough time, without feeling slow.
Highlights
Baroque Salzburg, alpine Innsbruck, the quiet shores of Lake Achensee and South Tyrol with Cortina d’Ampezzo, the Strada delle Dolomiti and architectural accents by Zaha Hadid.
Accommodation
You stay in small-scale properties with strong locations: a lakeside spa hotel and lodges in the Dolomites.
Profile
For travellers who see culture and natural seclusion as complementary rather than separate.
Day 1: Departure to (Munich) - Salzburg
On the way to Salzburg, you may or may not stop in Munich. The bustling capital of the German state of Bavaria introduces you to regional specialities such as Munich beer and Weißwurst. After a day in Munich, you continue on to Salzburg, Mozart's birthplace. Here you will spend the night in the heart of the city.
Day 2: Salzburg
The city centre of Salzburg is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its wealth of Baroque buildings. The city is pleasantly compact and can be explored perfectly in a few days. Yet there is a lot to do here. The city is bursting with culture and beer lovers can also visit one of the city's renowned breweries. Be sure to grab a cup of coffee and a slice of cake in one of the famous coffee houses!
Day 3: Salzburg - Achensee
On this day, you will have plenty of time to explore Salzburg one last time. After your day in Salzburg, you will continue on to Achensee, where you can relax in the spa of a Caractère hotel.
Day 4 & 5: Achensee
After the hustle and bustle of city life, you will arrive here in an oasis of tranquillity. Make the most of the beautiful green mountain meadows with the e-bikes, mountain bikes or Nordic walking poles provided free of charge by the hotel. For culture lovers, the fortress of Kufstein is definitely worth a visit.
Day 6: Innsbruck
You continue towards Innsbruck. This colourful city on the River Inn has a special character thanks to the Karwendel and Alps mountains that surround it. In the old town, you can stroll past countless Baroque buildings that adorn the city. You can also go shopping in Maria Theresienstrasse, take a cable car ride, visit a museum or relax on a terrace. In the evening, you will drive back to the hotel.
Day 7: Achensee - Cortina d'Ampezzo
Enjoy one last walk in the beautiful surroundings and then drive to South Tyrol in Italy, where you will spend three nights in a Caractère hotel of your choice.
Day 8: Cortina d'Ampezzo
Visit the exclusive mountain village of Cortina d'Ampezzo, with its beautiful church and many boutiques. From the centre, follow one of the various beautiful walking routes. You can continue on to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, three colossal rock towers, or visit the Kronplatz with its spectacularly located mountain museum “MMM Corones” by architect Zaha Hadid.
Day 9: LA STRADA DELLE DOLOMITI
This historic route runs from Cortina to Bolzano and offers fantastic panoramic views: along the Marmolada, the highest massif in the Dolomites, with its glacier, and the Sella Group, one of the most typical mountain ranges in the Dolomites.
You can go hiking or continue on to Bolzano, with its typical Tyrolean architecture, its “Duomo” in pink sandstone and its interesting Archaeological Museum, where you can come face to face with the famous ice mummy Ötzi.
Day 10: Return home
From South Tyrol, you will return home.
Frequently asked questions about the Austria and Dolomites tour.
Do I need a specific car for this route?
No. A normal passenger car is sufficient. All routes are easily accessible and driving times are limited, so comfort is more important than power.
When is the best time to travel on this route?
From May to October. Spring blossoms and snow-capped peaks in May and June, long summer days in July and August, and quieter roads with autumn colours in September.
Do I need to be an experienced hiker for this trip?
No. Walks and activities are completely optional and adaptable. You can choose between light activity and relaxation, with comfortable hotels as your base.
Why book with Caractère?
- Best price guarantee
- Caractère extras
- Just one phone call or email away from our enthusiastic travel experts
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