Italy is full of beauty. Yes, the cities are stunning, but do not forget its natural landscape. The Dolomites are incredible and are just a 150 km drive from Lake Garda. I did not have time to do more than a one-day trip to the Dolomites, but I had an epic day trip from Lake Garda.
Let me tell you a little bit about the day.
The bus left Riva Del Garda bus station at 8 am and by 9:30 we were at the first stop, Elephant cafe. Here, they served us a traditional strudel and a much-needed coffee. They didn’t allow us to stay on the bus, so you didn’t have any other option but to buy the strudel, but I didn’t mind. However, it would have been nice if they had included this in the ticket price.
After the strudel, we began the very scenic journey to the Dolomites. We encountered a steep road with 28 hairpin turns. The bus made 2-3 stops, allowing us to take photos. Interestingly, all the houses and towns along the route had a distinctly Austrian feel; it didn’t resemble Italy.
When we reached the Dolomites, the bus parked at the bottom of Pordoi Pass, and we were given a 2-hour window to explore. Fortunately, there is a cable car to the top of Pordoi Pass, which significantly saves time. While it would have been an amazing achievement to climb, the cable car is a wonderful option if you do not have the time.
At the top, it felt like another planet; you could almost touch a cloud. The views are incredible; it’s like no place I have ever been before.
Unfortunately, the two hours to explore include getting lunch. Therefore, in reality, you only have one hour to walk around Pordoi Pass. It was a long drive to only spend such a short amount of time at the Dolomites.
On the way back we stopped at the picturesque town of Ortisei, a Winter ski resort. In the Summer Summer, it is busy but mainly from tour buses.
All in all, it would have been nice to have more time in the Dolomites instead of stopping in Ortisei or going for strudel. However, I understand that the driver needs a break, and these stops make it a more well-rounded and inclusive trip for everyone.
It was a brilliant day and one I will not forget.
The trip was €70 and can be booked here in the Summer months.
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