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Discover the luxuries of Northern Italy on an unforgettable driving tour that spans majestic alpine peaks, Michelin-starred dining, and picturesque lakeside towns. This tour takes you through the enchanting landscapes of the Dolomites and Lake Garda, with scenic routes perfect for a thrilling drive. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore charming ski towns, renowned wine regions, and serene lakes, all while staying in luxurious accommodations that provide the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From navigating iconic mountain passes to sampling world-class cuisine, this experience is designed to immerse you in the best that Northern Italy has to offer.
This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a balance between high-adrenaline driving and leisurely exploration. With a mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and opportunities for relaxation, it’s perfect for those seeking a combination of excitement and downtime. Whether you’re an experienced driver eager to conquer the twisty mountain roads or a couple looking for a romantic getaway with beautiful views and fine dining, this trip provides just the right amount of driving each day, ensuring plenty of time to enjoy the sights, relax at your hotel, or explore Italy’s rich cultural heritage.
Prices from: €15900
Tour Availability: May – October
Tour Highlights
Sights & Stops
- Venice: Step into the unique enchantment of Venice, where historic canals, grand palaces, and iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Square create a magical city built on water.
- Seceda Ridge: Ride the cable car to Seceda Ridge and stand beneath its unique, dramatic jagged mountain profile, a truly unforgettable Dolomite spectacle.
- Sass Pordoi Gondola / Terrace of the Dolomites: Ascend via the Sass Pordoi Gondola to the ‘Terrace of the Dolomites’, a rocky high-altitude plateau offering unparalleled panoramic views over the surrounding peaks.
- Madonna della Corona Church: Visit the extraordinary Madonna della Corona Church, built directly into the sheer cliff face high above the Adige Valley.
Drive Highlights
- Stelvio Pass: Conquer the legendary Stelvio Pass, navigating its world-famous 48 hairpin bends on a thrilling climb through the high Italian Alps, the ultimate driving badge of honour.
- Strada della Forra: Experience the exhilarating Strada della Forra, a spectacular road daringly carved into a sheer gorge near Lake Garda, winding through tunnels and cliffs just above the water, famously featured in a James Bond film.
- Passo Giau: Drive the magnificent Passo Giau, a quintessential Dolomites pass renowned for its engaging corners and dramatic roadside rock formations set against towering peaks.
- The Sella Ronda Passes: Tackle the iconic Sella Ronda Passes (Falzarego, Pordoi, Sella, Gardena), driving a thrilling circuit around the formidable Sella massif through varied and stunning Dolomites landscape.
Itinerary
On Day 1, arrive in Italy where a transfer to your luxurious five-star hotel awaits. Verona is the nearest large airport to Lake Garda, but Milan and Venice are also not far. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely evening in the olive groves or rejuvenate in the hotel’s spa, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey ahead.
Overnight Stay: 5-Star Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda
On Day 2, embrace the tranquility of Lake Garda. Relax in your hotel’s luxurious spa, where panoramic lake views provide the perfect backdrop. Venture out to explore scenic hiking trails or adventure out on the lake aboard the hotel’s private boat. For a taste of local culture, try your hand at an Italian cooking class before your first drive the following day.
Overnight Stay: 5-Star Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda
On Day 3, begin your first drive along the scenic northern shoreline of Lake Garda, famously featured in James Bond: Quantum of Solace. Ascend the dramatic Strada della Forra, a twisting cliffside road, before returning to the lake and stopping for coffee in Limone sul Garda. Pass through Riva del Garda, then head toward Trento along the Adige River, pausing to admire the 13th-century Castel Toblino. After lunch in Cavalese, thrill to the winding roads of Passo Valles and Passo Giau before arriving in the elegant mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo for the night.
Overnight Stay: 5-Star Faloria Mountain Spa Resort
On Day 4, depart Cortina early to enjoy the mountain passes before the crowds and maximize your afternoon at the next hotel. Positioned at the start of the Great Dolomite Road, you’ll tackle four iconic passes: Falzarego, Pordoi, Sella, and Gardena. Stop for coffee atop Passo Falzarego before winding through the dramatic landscapes of Pordoi and Sella. Don’t miss the Sass Pordoi Gondola for panoramic views at 2,950m. After lunch near Passo Gardena, finish with the stunningly twisty SP29, a hidden gem far from the busier Dolomite routes.
Overnight Stay: 5-Star Forestis Dolomites
On Day 5, start the day with a short drive to the Great Dolomites Road and ride the Funivie Seceda cable car to enjoy panoramic views at the iconic Seceda Ridge. Descend and cross Passo Sella again, then drive through Passo Costalunga and Passo Lavaze. The route concludes with a scenic drive into the Alto Adige Wine Region. Stop for wine tastings before reaching your hotel near Lago di Caldaro, where you’ll unwind after a beautiful day of driving.
Overnight Stay: 5-Star Wellnesshotel Seeleiten
On Day 6, enjoy another day of exciting drives across three major passes to the north – Penser Joch, Jaufenpass and Timmelsjoch. Alternatively, unwind with a down day at your hotel and explore the cities of Bolzano or Merano, or visit wineries and castles in the Alto Adige Valley.
Overnight Stay: 5-Star Wellnesshotel Seeleiten
On Day 7, head west to the breathtaking Adamello Brenta National Park. Begin with a climb over Mendel Pass, and take a hike to Rastenbach Gorge. Continue down to Lago di Santa Giustina, crossing a dam and stopping for lunch in Cles. Follow the Noce River, passing the scenic Ponte del Castellaz, concluding your journey with a scenic drive through the Campiglio Pass, passing Folgarida and reaching your hotel in Pinzolo, nestled at the foot of Cima Tosa.
Overnight Stay: 5-Star Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti
On Day 8, begin your scenic drive south through the breathtaking Adamello Brenta National Park, renowned for its waterfalls, alpine lakes, and hiking trails. From Tione di Trento, drive through Riva del Garda and cross Passo Santa Barbara, challenging your driving skills. After lunch near Monte Baldo, visit the Madonna della Corona Church. Finish the drive down to the southern coast of Lake Garda, with an optional stop in Sirmione before reaching your hotel. Alternatively, head straight to your hotel to unwind and soak in the lakeside views.
Overnight Stay: 5-Star Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda
Spend your final day exploring Garda, perhaps enjoying a boat trip on Lake Garda, or a visit to the historic Limonaia La Malora, where you can taste their homemade limoncello amid fragrant lemon groves before departing.
Package Includes
- Luxury Car Rental & Insurance
- Arrival Transfer
- Ample KM
- 8 Nights in Luxury Accommodation
- Daily Breakfasts
- Curated Driving Itinerary
- eRoadbook & Navigation Links
- CarPlay & Android Auto Integration
- On-Call Support
- Car delivery & pick up directly at your hotel
Recommended Cars
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