Cross-Country Skiing in Dobbiaco, Italy (Independent)

Northern Italy's spectacular Dolomite mountain range is celebrated for its breath-taking, multicoloured peaks of jagged rock, interspersed by charming small towns and villages with a unique German language, Alpine flavour. One of the region's finest resorts is pretty Dobbiaco, a great base for a full range of winter sports and activities across the region and a perfect place to soak up the mix of Italian and Austrian culture, close to the world-class downhill skiing in Verscaico, San Candido, Plan de Corones and famously chic Cortina d'Ampezzo. It is also at the heart of an extensive network of cross-country skiing routes that offer something for all abilities, as well as winter walking (including snowshoeing) routes and trails through the area's picturesque valleys and high altitude passes. You can also make an excursion to see the famous 'Ice Man', Oetzi, in nearby Bolzano - as well as a trip to the lovely, glamorous resort of Cortina.

Recommended activities:

• Cross-country skiing 
• Downhill skiing at San Candido, Versciaco or Cortina d'Ampezzo 
• Self-guided Snowshoeing or Winter Walking 
• Day trip to see the remains of Oetzi, the famous 'ice-man' in Bolzano

NB. All active winter holidays involve some element of risk, from something as normal as slipping on icy pavements, to the possibility of injuries sustained as a result of the activities themselves. While Exodus do all they can to minimize any dangers, participants must be prepared to accept some risk as part of the holiday.

Many ski areas are easily accessible from Dobbiaco, including Plan de Corones and Cortina D'Ampezzo, each offering a wide selection of alpine skiing possibilities. Only a 10-minute bus journey away, San Candido and Versciaco have 53km of downhill slopes for all skiing levels. Alpine skis can be hired in Dobbiaco for approximately €20 per day.

This trip is based at: Tschurtschenthaler Hotel
This fine hotel has been welcoming Exodus groups for many years. The attractive building is traditionally styled, but with the advantages of a small swimming pool, a sauna, and a beauty treatment room (treatments not included). An ample buffet breakfast prepares us for the exertions of the day ahead. The excellent evening meals draw equally on Italian and Austrian traditions. After dinner you can relax in the lounge or go through to the bar for a drink with the locals. Single, double and twin-bedded rooms all have shower and w.c. and are comfortably furnished.