Snowshoeing vaction in the Dolomites

Planet

Accommodation and Meals:
Accommodation for the week is Hotel Adler- a locally run hotel in Villabassa. The whole region has a renewable energy policy and this is reflected by the hotel’s own commitment to using 100% clean energy. Hot water is provided with central heating supplemented by solar energy, whilst electricity is hydro-powered. In order to save water, clients are given the option to re-use their towels and linen. Nearly all waste which leaves the hotel is recycled and produce coming in is locally sourced wherever possible. Seasonal vegetables and salads are often sourced in the gardens at the hotel, whilst fresh meats, fish and cheeses are provided by local businesses and farmers. The kitchen serves a mixture of continental and regional cuisine, which may include specialties like Speckknoedel (bacon dumplings).

Activity:
As a snowshoeing vacation, this trip has very limited detrimental impact upon the environment, residents and communities in the regions we visit. Adverse effects like pollution and threatening wildlife do not come into play and although erosion on popular paths can be an issue, guides can advise pre-planned routes to avoid this. Traveling by foot also allows for flexibility and for easy access to the local population, shops and restaurants, which facilitates cultural exploration. By operating consciously with a ‘leave no trace’ policy, we are able to raise local awareness for a kind of tourism which refuses to sacrifice the environment and real connections with people for financial gain.

UK Office:
It all starts at home so we have first worked at reducing our carbon footprint in our UK Offices. Through energy conservation measures and recycling policies, we are proud to be actively reducing the waste produced and our impact on the environment. We support various projects all over the world to try and give something back to the places we visit.

People

Local Craft and Culture:
Although this trip takes us to some very altitudinous and remote locations, there are plenty of opportunities to engage with local culture. Clients are encouraged to stop at mountain huts or refuges, some of which are really off the beaten track and dependent on the more curious adventurer to remain in business. These locally run huts are a good place to stop and engage with the people who live and work in the area. They often serve local beers and delicious home cooked meals. If clients express an interest in locally produced food, they may be able to visit a nearby cheese factory or honey farm. The group can also visit the First World War Museum at Monte Piano, where clients can explore this special place of remembrance and learn about its role in the War.

Group Size:
This small group tour has a maximum of 16 participants, meaning that we have a low impact on the environments and communities we visit and are able to ensure that we do not disrupt or lead to the displacement of local people. The small number also allows us to stay in unique, family-run hotels that cannot benefit from coach tours and other mass tourism due to their limited sizes.