Little Trains of the Dolomites: Bolzano, Lake Garda & Trento
For Irish holidaymakers seeking a fresh perspective on the Italian Alps, this Dolomites Italy tour offers a magnificent blend of history, culture, and spectacular mountain scenery. Based in the beautiful lakeside resort of Lake Molveno, which sits at the foot of the Brenta Dolomites, you will spend a week exploring one of Europe’s most dramatic mountain ranges. This is an escorted tour designed for those who appreciate well-organised travel and excellent value for money, providing a perfect balance of guided excursions and free time to relax by the water.
The highlight of this holiday is undoubtedly the variety of unique transport experiences included. You will visit Bolzano, the charming gateway to the region where Italian and German influences create a distinct local culture. From there, a cable car ride takes you up to Soprabolzano before you board the historic Renon Railway. This narrow-gauge line climbs high into the mountains, offering sweeping views of the peaks that define this UNESCO-listed region. You will also have the chance to see the unusual Earth Pyramids, a fascinating natural phenomenon unique to South Tyrol.
Further rail adventures await on the Castles Railway. This scenic route travels from Mezzolombardo through deep mountain valleys to the town of Caldes. Here, you will visit the 13th-century Caldes Castle, a fortress that once guarded the Noce River. The journey continues to Cles, home to the Assessorile Palace and its medieval frescoes. For those who enjoy a bit of thrill with their views, the Mendola Funicular—one of the steepest in Europe—provides a breathtaking ascent to the Passo della Mendola, reaching over 1,300 metres above sea level.
The tour also balances mountain air with the soft breezes of Lake Garda. A guided boat trip across Italy’s largest lake brings you to the colourful village of Limone, where you can wander through narrow streets and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the harbour. Your expert guide will also take you through the historic streets of Trento to visit Buonconsiglio Castle, revealing the region’s Roman origins and architectural beauty.
Throughout this Dolomites Italy tour, you will be staying on a half-board basis, meaning your breakfasts and evening meals are included and taken at your hotel, allowing you to settle in and enjoy the local hospitality. With return flights from Ireland and all transfers organised, this is a straightforward and relaxing way to experience the very best of Northern Italy. Please note that a reasonable level of mobility is required to get on and off the various trains and funiculars that make this trip so special.
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Which meals are included in the holiday price?
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What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return flights from Ireland to Italy including airport transfers
- 7 nights accommodation in the Dolomites region staying at the Hotel Miralago (or similar)
- Half-board basis including 7 breakfasts and 7 evening meals
- Guided excursion to Bolzano with a trip on the historic Renon Railway
- Cable car journey to Soprabolzano and a visit to the Earth Pyramids
- Experience the Mendola Funicular with an included wine tasting session
- Scenic journey on the Castles Railway from Mezzolombardo to Caldes
- Entrance and guided tour of Caldes Castle and Assessorile Palace in Cles
- Full day excursion to Lake Garda including a guided boat trip to Limone
- Guided walking tour of the historic city of Trento and Buonconsiglio Castle
- Services of an expert local guide throughout the holiday
Itinerary
1Arrival in Italy and Transfer to Lake Molveno+
Your Italian holiday begins as you fly from Ireland to Italy. On arrival, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to the lakeside resort of Lake Molveno. Situated beneath the striking peaks of the Brenta Dolomites, this will be your base for the next seven nights.
2Bolzano and the Renon Railway Dolomites Italy tour+
Today's guided excursion takes you into the heart of South Tyrol. You will take a cable car ride to the hilltop village of Soprabolzano before boarding the historic Renon Railway. This narrow-gauge line climbs to over 1,200 metres, offering spectacular mountain views. During the day, you will stop to see the Earth Pyramids and enjoy a guided walking tour of Bolzano, known for its elegant architecture and blend of Italian and German cultures.
3Mendola Funicular and Local Wine Tasting+
Enjoy a full day combining local flavours with high-altitude views. The day starts with a visit to a regional winery for a tasting session. You will then travel to the foothills of the Mendola Mountain Range to board one of the steepest funiculars in Europe. The ascent takes you to Passo della Mendola at 1,363 metres for sweeping views of the valleys below, followed by free time in the picturesque village of San Antonio di Caldaro.
4The Castles Railway to Caldes and Cles+
Today you discover the history of Trentino via the Castles Railway. You will travel by coach to Mezzolombardo before boarding the train for a 90-minute scenic journey through mountain valleys to Caldes. You will visit the well-preserved 13th-century Caldes Castle and then continue to Cles to explore the historic Assessorile Palace, famous for its medieval frescoes.
5Boat Trip on Lake Garda and Limone+
This full-day excursion takes you to the beautiful shores of Lake Garda. Start with a guided walking tour of Riva del Garda before boarding a boat for a relaxing cruise across the azure waters. You will arrive in the charming village of Limone, where you have free time for lunch and a stroll through its colourful, narrow streets before returning to your hotel.
6Guided Tour of Trento and Buonconsiglio Castle+
Travel to the historic city of Trento for a fascinating morning walking tour. You will explore the city's colourful streets and visit the impressive Buonconsiglio Castle. Dating back to Roman times, the castle features magnificent frescoes and provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The afternoon is yours to relax before dinner.
7A Day of Leisure at Lake Molveno+
Your final full day is free to enjoy at your own pace. You might choose to relax beside the peaceful lake, browse the local shops for souvenirs, or enjoy a coffee and a gelato while taking in the magnificent alpine scenery that surrounds the resort.
8Arrivederci Italy+
After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your return flight to Ireland, bringing your alpine adventure to a close.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 Apr 2027 | €1,699 | Enquire Now | |
| 02 May 2027 | €1,729 | Enquire Now | |
| 23 May 2027 | Twin | €1,729 | Enquire Now |
| 20 Jun 2027 | Twin | €1,729 | Enquire Now |
| 05 Sep 2027 | Twin | €1,729 | Enquire Now |
| 12 Sep 2027 | Twin | €1,729 | Enquire Now |
| 26 Sep 2027 | Twin | €1,729 | Enquire Now |
| 10 Oct 2027 | Twin | €1,699 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: TD
