Dramatic Dolomites & Lake Garda

They may not be Italy's tallest mountains but the jagged snow-capped Dolomites are surely the most spectacular. In this beautiful part of Northern Italy, full of Tyrolean influences, it is all about the magnificent mountain scenery, picturesque lakes, pretty alpine style hamlets and lush fertile valleys covered with vines and orchards. Your base is the charming village of Fai della Paganella in the Trentino region where you will be made to feel at home by Fausto and his family at the charming and extremely popular chalet style Hotel Paganella. Added extras at the hotel include a free bar between 6pm - 10.30pm, wine with dinner, a quiz night, wine tasting and the chance to go local with a try of the multi-spouted grolla cup and a hosted picnic on a walk through the village. A day to lovely Riva del Garda at the northern end of stunning Lake Garda is included.

Departure points to suit you...
Crusader Holidays uses an interchange system, taking place at either Beaconsfield Services (M40), South Mimms Services (M25/A1M) or Thurrock Services (M25).

Here you may have to change to your holiday coach and we are renowned for ensuring that this is smooth and efficient.

The holiday coaches typically depart from Beaconsfield Services at 11.15, Thurrock Services at around 09.30 and South Mimms Services at 10.30. Some customers find it more convenient to join direct at the interchange, please let is know when booking if this is the case.

*Due to increased operational costs, from Monday 16th October 2023 Dover, Folkestone, Canterbury & Ashford joining points will be subject to a £25.00 per person supplement on all 2024 UK Tours.

NOTE: Pick up points are a guide so please refer to your holiday confirmation for specific locations as details are subject to change.Highlights
- Overnight hotel for 2 nights with breakfast- Hotel for 5 or 6 nights with continental buffet breakfast & dinner- Welcome drink on arrival- Porterage in Italy- Unlimited water & wine with dinner- Tea/Coffee after dinner- Free bar 6pm-10.30pm (selected drinks)- Evening activities in the bar- Picnic lunch and village walk- Three included excursions as stated

Your Itinerary
Day 1 - You head to Dover for the short sea crossing to Calais. Then continue via the auto-routes of France en-route to your overnight hotel over the border near Saarbrücken in Germany. BB

Day 2 - Departing after breakfast, enjoy a day of ever changing scenery as your scenic drive takes you through Austria and over the Brenner Pass before entering Italy on the way to Fai della Paganella for your 5 or 6-night stay. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival and porterage is included here. DBB

Day 3 - 6 (or 7) - At leisure in Fai della Paganella for 4 or 5 days with three included excursions. During your stay enjoy a hosted walk and picnic in the surrounding countryside with compliments of your resort hotel as well as several activity evenings. DBB

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
Merano & Lake Caldaro
Head to the Süd Tyrol to the pretty spa town of Merano which has an enticing 'Mediterranean meets the Alps' atmosphere. Beloved by generations of middle Europe's movers and shakers, from Austrian Royals to influential writers, Merano, with its medieval centre, leafy boulevards, sunny microclimate and art nouveau villas still draws health-conscious visitors who come to benefit from its therapeutic traditions. Return via the famous wine route of Alto Adige with a stop at Lake Caldaro.

Riva del Garda
The resort of Riva del Garda is located at the north point of stunningly beautiful Lake Garda. This is the dramatic end of the lake where mountains rise steeply on either side and Riva sits on the shore with a backdrop of lake, valley and hills. This atmospheric town is full of appeal and has plenty going on, with its beautifully preserved, pedestrianised Citta Vecchia, lakeside promenade and waterfront squares. The striking 13th century clock-tower (Torre Apponale) stands proudly in the centre of the town's lakefront piazza and those with plenty of energy can climb up to the top for great vistas (admission applies). Your driver may be able to offer you an optional boat trip to nearby Limone sul Garda

A Day in the Heart of the Dolomites
A full scenic touring day of pretty mountain villages, exhilarating roads and the mightiest granite peaks of Europe. The spectacular Great Dolomites Road encompasses the iconic grey peaks and plateaus, forested hills and green valleys and takes you through the heart of the UNESCO-listed Dolomites. As you climb up, attractive mountain landscapes and the unique saw-tooth peaks appear. From the high mountain passes at Gardena (2136m) and Pordoi (2239m) to magnificent valleys and Alpine Lake Carezza, you can be sure of breath taking views and spectacular nature.

OPTIONAL EXCURSION (9 day tour only - August)
Bolzano & Renon
Head off to Bolzano, the capital of the Dolomites, with the chance to Ötzi, the famous Ice Man, naturally mummified in ice for over 5,000 years (Museum entrance not included). Continue to Renon, a spectacular area of peaks and plateaus with the opportunity of an optional cable car and narrow gauge railway trip to reach the heart of this region, viewing the earth pyramids and beautiful scenery along the way.

Day 7 (or 8) - Arrivederci to the Italian Dolomites as you head back through Austria and on to the final overnight hotel. Bed & breakfast

Last Day - An early start today after breakfast, as yuo travel back through France to Calais for the return to England.Hotel Paganella A Crusader Favourite!
The small and friendly chalet-style Hotel Paganella is located in the pretty hamlet of Fai, nestled in the heart of the Brenta Dolomites. Fausto and his family ensure a warm welcome as they pass on their passion for the area to you.

There is a cosy bar, a traditional restaurant serving excellent homemade Italian food, comfortable lounge area and a lift.

Each of the comfortable 26 bedrooms has a hairdryer, satellite TV and telephone.