Trip report - Switzerland and north Italy
Jun 25th, 2023, 05:05 AM
#202
Such glorious pictures! What an amazing trip!
Every time I’ve come back to your TR, I mean to post, only there are 2 dozen more posts with photos to look at and somehow, I haven’t been able to keep up! Beautiful trip.
Every time I’ve come back to your TR, I mean to post, only there are 2 dozen more posts with photos to look at and somehow, I haven’t been able to keep up! Beautiful trip.
Jun 26th, 2023, 07:16 AM
#203
Day 35 : Corvara, Italy
Another beautiful sunny day today.
DH keen for more urban sights, so decided on bus to lovely Brunico (I’ve been before)
However, after past 5 days of ongoing roadworks and our bus stop in use despite having digger in action, a temporary bus stop seems to have been placed up the road - so, the bus sailed right on past.
Okay, so replan…..I opted to solo trip back up Boé, then Vallon chairlift to the Franz Costner rifugio.
Lots of real hikers trekking up the mountainside stopping at the little lake Boé then on to Franz Kostner, and some beyond.
The scree looks tricky and the descent hard on knees, glad I wasn’t attempting it.
I’m not a hiker, this was a ‘sightseeing the easy way’ day.
At Vallon top station, it’s a short easy walk to the rifugio.
Lake Boe on the way up
Franz Kostner rifugio
can only just see hikers on the trails
trail on the scree on left
Hikers at bottom of photo on trail
Another beautiful sunny day today.
DH keen for more urban sights, so decided on bus to lovely Brunico (I’ve been before)
However, after past 5 days of ongoing roadworks and our bus stop in use despite having digger in action, a temporary bus stop seems to have been placed up the road - so, the bus sailed right on past.
Okay, so replan…..I opted to solo trip back up Boé, then Vallon chairlift to the Franz Costner rifugio.
Lots of real hikers trekking up the mountainside stopping at the little lake Boé then on to Franz Kostner, and some beyond.
The scree looks tricky and the descent hard on knees, glad I wasn’t attempting it.
I’m not a hiker, this was a ‘sightseeing the easy way’ day.
At Vallon top station, it’s a short easy walk to the rifugio.
Lake Boe on the way up
Franz Kostner rifugio
can only just see hikers on the trails
trail on the scree on left
Hikers at bottom of photo on trail
.
Jun 27th, 2023, 07:25 AM
#205
Stormbird, on this map you can see the trail above Edelweiss then branches off to Col Pradat, that’s the one we did.
Uphill on trail 4, then branched off on trail 7
Another option we would have liked to take the Frara chairlift/ cablecar up towards Jimmi hut - although that lift not open until July, so would need to hike there, could then walk to Dantercepies lift and gondola down to Selva.
Colfosco looks a good base, I’d suggest finding accommodation one street back from main road.
This is a motorbike and sport car area - these passes are busy!
So, my cousin stayed at Hotel Table in Corvara, right on the roundabout, lots of roadworks and footpath repair, so many motorbikes roaring past, we counted 11 Lamborghinis in a row one morning and the bus of course, it’s no place for a quiet restorative drink, I tell you.
But off the main road, it is quiet.
All the villages have hotels on the main road, so just avoid them, I think.
Day 36 : Corvara, Italy
Time to go to Brunico (Bruneck).
An hour by bus, through gorgeous countryside.
I’d visited in 2019, was sure DH would love it.
The medieval town gates, the castle, churches, nice shops and restaurants, colourful facades. So charming.
We had a relaxing time ambling around the streets, and having lunch.
It has a nice vibe, a very pleasant town.
Good transport options, with the train station and bus lines.
One of 4 gates
Store window displays are so pretty
And this entrance so sweet :
We returned by bus on the same route, but I jumped off at St Lorenzen, Altenheim, because I spotted a covered wooden bridge, and what looked to be a sweet village on our way to Brunico, so noted it to visit on the return bus.
Bit a of wander and then I walked to the next tiny village, Pflaurenz, with its’ old water mill still in action.
No tourists or Lamborghinis there, lol.
Quite warm, 30C.
Took next bus to Corvara from there.
Views on way home…
Uphill on trail 4, then branched off on trail 7
Another option we would have liked to take the Frara chairlift/ cablecar up towards Jimmi hut - although that lift not open until July, so would need to hike there, could then walk to Dantercepies lift and gondola down to Selva.
Colfosco looks a good base, I’d suggest finding accommodation one street back from main road.
This is a motorbike and sport car area - these passes are busy!
So, my cousin stayed at Hotel Table in Corvara, right on the roundabout, lots of roadworks and footpath repair, so many motorbikes roaring past, we counted 11 Lamborghinis in a row one morning and the bus of course, it’s no place for a quiet restorative drink, I tell you.
But off the main road, it is quiet.
All the villages have hotels on the main road, so just avoid them, I think.
Day 36 : Corvara, Italy
Time to go to Brunico (Bruneck).
An hour by bus, through gorgeous countryside.
I’d visited in 2019, was sure DH would love it.
The medieval town gates, the castle, churches, nice shops and restaurants, colourful facades. So charming.
We had a relaxing time ambling around the streets, and having lunch.
It has a nice vibe, a very pleasant town.
Good transport options, with the train station and bus lines.
One of 4 gates
Store window displays are so pretty
And this entrance so sweet :
We returned by bus on the same route, but I jumped off at St Lorenzen, Altenheim, because I spotted a covered wooden bridge, and what looked to be a sweet village on our way to Brunico, so noted it to visit on the return bus.
Bit a of wander and then I walked to the next tiny village, Pflaurenz, with its’ old water mill still in action.
No tourists or Lamborghinis there, lol.
Quite warm, 30C.
Took next bus to Corvara from there.
Views on way home…
Jun 27th, 2023, 07:41 AM
#206
Day 37 : Corvara, Italy
Today we bussed to Badia, and walked to Lech da Sompunt / Lago Sompunt, a pleasant uphill 30 min walk above Badia, passing homes and farms, a tiny chapel, farmers working in fields.
Badia, you can see where we walked down into Badia from other direction last week
Tiny chapel, seating for 6 or 8
Working farms on the way
Farm cubby house and playground
Arrived at the lovely little lake, in forest and with fabulous mountain reflections.
Enjoyed lunch there, and returned to Badia.
the return walk:
There were lots of interesting and unexpected sculptures at this farm
The valley is preparing for the Maratona dles Dolomites - Enel on Sunday, a road bike marathon with 9000 participating. Along with all the roadworks, there is temporary stands and stalls being erected.
It’s starting to get busy here.
We leave for Munich tomorrow.
There won’t be sightseeing, I’ll be catching up with Fodorite swandav, and preparing myself for the long haul return flights and return to work.
So I’ll sign off now.
Thanks to those who’ve helped directly with planning, or indirectly, through trip reports and posts.
Today we bussed to Badia, and walked to Lech da Sompunt / Lago Sompunt, a pleasant uphill 30 min walk above Badia, passing homes and farms, a tiny chapel, farmers working in fields.
Badia, you can see where we walked down into Badia from other direction last week
Tiny chapel, seating for 6 or 8
Working farms on the way
Farm cubby house and playground
Arrived at the lovely little lake, in forest and with fabulous mountain reflections.
Enjoyed lunch there, and returned to Badia.
the return walk:
There were lots of interesting and unexpected sculptures at this farm
The valley is preparing for the Maratona dles Dolomites - Enel on Sunday, a road bike marathon with 9000 participating. Along with all the roadworks, there is temporary stands and stalls being erected.
It’s starting to get busy here.
We leave for Munich tomorrow.
There won’t be sightseeing, I’ll be catching up with Fodorite swandav, and preparing myself for the long haul return flights and return to work.
So I’ll sign off now.
Thanks to those who’ve helped directly with planning, or indirectly, through trip reports and posts.
Jun 28th, 2023, 03:10 AM
#211
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Ade, you seem to have saved your best for last! That initial enlarged shot was lovely.
I too am tryna' get my head around those temperatures.
Btw, fantastic idea to include the map. Was going to do same in the Mt. Tremblant section of our Montreal TR.
Dunno, maybe Fodors would consider making these kinds of TRs as 'pinned'?
I am done. the edelweiss and the cowbell
more cowbell
I too am tryna' get my head around those temperatures.
Btw, fantastic idea to include the map. Was going to do same in the Mt. Tremblant section of our Montreal TR.
Dunno, maybe Fodors would consider making these kinds of TRs as 'pinned'?
I am done. the edelweiss and the cowbell
more cowbell
Jun 28th, 2023, 04:10 PM
#213
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Thank you for sharing this beautiful journey.
Our best wishes for a comfortable journey home and a happy time meeting with Swandav (as we did some years ago)!
Your tantalising trip report has spurred us into action and we now plan to head to the Dolomites in September.
Now: to re read and re enjoy.
Our best wishes for a comfortable journey home and a happy time meeting with Swandav (as we did some years ago)!
Your tantalising trip report has spurred us into action and we now plan to head to the Dolomites in September.
Now: to re read and re enjoy.
Jul 5th, 2023, 09:21 AM
#215
Just stumbled across this fantastic TR. Your pictures are just gorgeous. Thank you so much for doing it. We were in Lake Orta in May shortly before you and spent a day at Stressa. I was interested to read about all the day trips you found from there. I have been thinking about a trip to Switzerland and N.Italy for next year. Your great TR has given me some good ideas. Do you recommend the apts you stayed in? If so would you mind sharing the links.
Jul 6th, 2023, 01:27 AM
#216
yestravel we liked all our accommodation, well located, quiet, good value, I tend to pre book a long way in advance and the Stresa host said hers is booked solid. It’s a fantastic apartment, spacious, right by grocery store, we could have stayed longer, there’s lots to do in that area.
Zurich : Best Western Zucherhof
Stresa https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/3619...e-3d08d1a17dd7
Locarno https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/3101...7-6e20f95f316c
Sils Maria https://www.interhome.com.au/switzer...-ch7515.649.1/
Bressanone https://www.hotelbrixen.it/en/traube/1-0.html
Corvara https://www.villaeden.com/en/information/index/1-0.html
Munich https://www.hotel-isartor.de/en/home-2/
Zurich : Best Western Zucherhof
Stresa https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/3619...e-3d08d1a17dd7
Locarno https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/3101...7-6e20f95f316c
Sils Maria https://www.interhome.com.au/switzer...-ch7515.649.1/
Bressanone https://www.hotelbrixen.it/en/traube/1-0.html
Corvara https://www.villaeden.com/en/information/index/1-0.html
Munich https://www.hotel-isartor.de/en/home-2/
Last edited by Adelaidean; Jul 6th, 2023 at 01:30 AM.
Jul 6th, 2023, 03:54 AM
#217
Thanks! This trip wont be until next year. Interesting perspective on Stressa--we loved Lake Orta and its quiet, small town. Stressa seemed so different when we went there for the day, lots of people, traffic and hustle and bustle compared to Orta. But I see from your report it makes for a great hopping off point to see more of the lake area which we didnt. We drove there inland through the mountains. Your terrific TR will be very helpful as I move forward planning next year.
Jul 6th, 2023, 04:33 AM
#218
yestravel Stresa was definitely busy, but it was limited to the area around the ferry dock, and the few tiny alleys from there to the main square where the shops and restaurants were full.
We were surprised how few people explored past that. If you check a map of the Carrefour, that’s where our apartment was. We hopped off the ferry, passed the crowded alleys in 2 minutes and were in our quiet back street to enjoy an aperitif at the local wine bar in peace. It really didn’t diminish our enjoyment and I dislike crowds, as you can see as I choose villages mostly. I also need to consider transport options for daytrips, so there are compromises. But we both enjoyed Stresa, as did the family/ friend who joined us.
We were surprised how few people explored past that. If you check a map of the Carrefour, that’s where our apartment was. We hopped off the ferry, passed the crowded alleys in 2 minutes and were in our quiet back street to enjoy an aperitif at the local wine bar in peace. It really didn’t diminish our enjoyment and I dislike crowds, as you can see as I choose villages mostly. I also need to consider transport options for daytrips, so there are compromises. But we both enjoyed Stresa, as did the family/ friend who joined us.
Jul 6th, 2023, 04:49 AM
#219
yestravel Stresa was definitely busy, but it was limited to the area around the ferry dock, and the few tiny alleys from there to the main square where the shops and restaurants were full.
We were surprised how few people explored past that. If you check a map of the Carrefour, that’s where our apartment was. We hopped off the ferry, passed the crowded alleys in 2 minutes and were in our quiet back street to enjoy an aperitif at the local wine bar in peace. It really didn’t diminish our enjoyment and I dislike crowds, as you can see as I choose villages mostly. I also need to consider transport options for daytrips, so there are compromises. But we both enjoyed Stresa, as did the family/ friend who joined us.
We were surprised how few people explored past that. If you check a map of the Carrefour, that’s where our apartment was. We hopped off the ferry, passed the crowded alleys in 2 minutes and were in our quiet back street to enjoy an aperitif at the local wine bar in peace. It really didn’t diminish our enjoyment and I dislike crowds, as you can see as I choose villages mostly. I also need to consider transport options for daytrips, so there are compromises. But we both enjoyed Stresa, as did the family/ friend who joined us.
We had a car on this trip, but for next year the advantage of staying in a place with good transportation available is appealing.
Your TR certainly helped me to see all sorts of possibilities. Thanks again!
Last edited by yestravel; Jul 6th, 2023 at 05:18 AM.
Jul 7th, 2023, 10:04 AM
#220
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yestravel Stresa was definitely busy, but it was limited to the area around the ferry dock, and the few tiny alleys from there to the main square where the shops and restaurants were full.
We were surprised how few people explored past that. If you check a map of the Carrefour, that’s where our apartment was. We hopped off the ferry, passed the crowded alleys in 2 minutes and were in our quiet back street to enjoy an aperitif at the local wine bar in peace. It really didn’t diminish our enjoyment and I dislike crowds, as you can see as I choose villages mostly. I also need to consider transport options for daytrips, so there are compromises. But we both enjoyed Stresa, as did the family/ friend who joined us.
We were surprised how few people explored past that. If you check a map of the Carrefour, that’s where our apartment was. We hopped off the ferry, passed the crowded alleys in 2 minutes and were in our quiet back street to enjoy an aperitif at the local wine bar in peace. It really didn’t diminish our enjoyment and I dislike crowds, as you can see as I choose villages mostly. I also need to consider transport options for daytrips, so there are compromises. But we both enjoyed Stresa, as did the family/ friend who joined us.
I'm going to be staying there for 5 nights in a couple of weeks.
I think the only place I'd go is Laveno. I am considering driving up to Locarno for the day, as well as visit Mottarone and then down to Orta San Giuglio.
Of course the Isole Borromeo as well.
