Astonishment from Salzburg to South Tyrol

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 German state Bavaria will introduce you to regional specialities such as Munich beer and Weißwurst. After a day in Munich, drive on to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart. Here you will spend the night in the heart of the city.

Day 2: Salzburg

Salzburg's city centre graces the Unesco World Heritage List, thanks to the wealth of Baroque buildings it boasts. The city is pleasantly compact and can be perfectly explored in a few days. Yet there is a lot to experience here. The city buzzes with culture and beer lovers can also visit one of the city's renowned breweries here. Also, be sure to grab a cup of coffee and a piece of cake in one of its renowned coffee houses!

Day 3: Salzburg - Achensee

On this day, you have plenty of time to explore Salzburg one last time. After your day in Salzburg, drive on to Achensee where you unwind in the spa of a Caractère hotel.

Day 4 & 5: Achensee

After the busy city life, you will arrive here to an oasis of calm. Make the most of the lovely, green mountain meadows with e-bikes, mountain bikes or poles for Nordic walking offered free of charge by the hotel. The fortress of Kufstein is definitely worth a visit for culture lovers.

Day 6: Innsbruck

You continuer towards Innsbruck. This colourful city on the river Inn takes on a special character thanks to the Karwendel and Alpine mountains that surround it. In the old town you stroll past numerous Baroque buildings that adorn the city. You can also shop in Maria Theresienstrasse, take a cable car ride, visit a museum or enjoy a terrace. In the evening, drive back to the hotel.

Day 7 : Achensee - Cortina D'Ampezzo

Enjoy one last hike 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 several beautiful hiking trails. Possibly continue to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, 3 colossal rock towers, or visit 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 panoramas: past the Marmolada, the highest massif of the Dolomites, with its glacier, and the Sella group, one of the most typical mountains of the Dolomites. You can hike there, or drive on to Bolzano, with its typical Tyrolean architecture, its pink sandstone 'Duomo' and its interesting Archaeological Museum, where you will stand face to face with the famous ice mummy Ötzi.

Day 10: Going home

Return home from South Tyrol.

Frequently asked questions about 'Astonishment from Salzburg to South Tyrol'

Do I need a specific type of car for this route?

No. A standard passenger car is sufficient. All roads are well maintained and driving times are short, making comfort more important than engine power.

What is the best travel period for this itinerary?

From May to October. Spring flowers 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?

No. All walks and activities are optional and can be adapted to your pace. You can alternate between light activity and relaxation, with comfortable hotels as your base.