Hi,

3 nights is not too mant at all. We stayed 4 nights in Val Gardena in 10/03, 3 nights in Alta Badia at the Montanara in 10/06 and another 2 nights Alta Badia at the Montanara in 9/09. We also visited in 4/05, but we stayed in the Vinschgau/Val Venosta on that trip. The Alta Badia is quieter, in my opinion. There are restaurants (our favorites are The Black Hill and The La-Tor), bakeries and local markets open. We LOVE the Montanara though. I can't imagine finding a nicer place for twice the money. Back to Val Gardena... the second Monday of October Ortisei has a terrific all day, town wide, market. Stalls selling anything and everthing, beer and wine tents and music (we listened to an Alpenhorn "band". We were there for this in 10/03.

Paul

Booked the airfare. Yippy!

Here is my revised itinerary. Help with hotels would be appreciated. I've been pouring over trip advisor reviews and get more confused.

Bologna - 4 nights Hotel suggestions?

Otisei, Val Gardena- 3 nights Hotel Grones (thanks Bob)

(we decided not to stop in-between. Via Michelin has this trip at 4 1/2 hours which is do able for us)

Alba Piedmont - 4 nights Possibly Hotel Calissano (decided we would like to stay in the city)

The Lakes - 4 nights Not sure where to base ourselves. La Palma in Stresa is booked.

Last Night - Hotel First MXP airport

Sorry this has taken so long, but all of the great advise will help others plan a trip to Northern Italy. Thanks to all and have a Happy Easter.

It may be too late for your planning but take a look to see if the Buskers Festival or Hot Air Balloon Festival will be underway in Ferrara during your tour.