If your social media feeds have been anything like mine lately, then you’ll have no doubt seen countless reels, Instagram dumps, and TikToks lauding the Dolomites as the hottest new holiday destination. And for good reason. The mountainous landscape is not only visually stunning, but physically challenging too, and in our current wellness era (combined with the gorpcore and technical-wear fashion trends), it’s the ideal destination to get your steps in and show off a whole new look to your followers.
However, what I didn’t know was how much more the Dolomites had to offer than just its vast expanse of hiking trails. Yes, there are walks, e-bikes, and swimming opportunities galore, but there are also thousands of acres worth of vineyards to explore.
That's why I want to put it on the map, not as your next wellness getaway, but as a contender for your next girls' trip. You can swap sipping glasses of overpriced orange wine on the pavement for clinking glasses of crisp white straight from the very source.
Where we stayed
On my trip, I stayed in the small town of Kaltern, in the South Tyrol region of Italy, though the town is so close to the German border, it can at times be hard to distinguish which country we were in. Most locals actually spoke German, yet the food we were eating was hearty Italian. We were drinking Aperol Spritzes, but the buildings looked straight out of Austria.
Booked via Oliver's Travels, our villa 'Valle Alpina' was the ultimate girls' holiday digs. It splits into two, so you can book the larger or smaller venue, or both, depending on your party size. We had the luxury of both villas, meaning we could enjoy the true expanse of the space. And what a space it was! Two pools, a hot tub, a garden in full bloom, not to mention the size of the rooms, and indoor/outdoor dining situ.
It was also conveniently located right next to the town, so if crisps, olives, and more wine weren't enough of a girl-dinner for you, just mooch for all of five minutes and you'll have a whole host of wining and dining options for the evening.
What we did
With the mountains on your doorstep and lakes in your garden, you’re not short of things to do when staying in the Dolomites. If you've chosen the area for a mini-break or weekend trip then your only problem will be managing to fit them all in!
Wine tours
Have I mentioned just how many vineyards there are in Kaltern yet? In any case, it would've been rude to leave without having done a wine tour. There were a couple of options here:
- An all-day hike with 11 different stops for various wine tastings
- A more relaxed approach with a three-hour tour, less walking, and five different wines
Naturally, we chose the latter (kudos to whoever can manage 11 different wines in a single day! Plus hiking!) and it was an afternoon well spent.
The winery we explored was Kurtatsch, who own 190 hectares of sustainable vineyards, so they know a thing or two about a good glass of vino. On the tour, we learnt about their history in the region, the types of grapes they grow, and how different altitudes affected the outcome of a bottle of wine - so you can feel super knowledgeable when you're sipping on your next savvy b.
Hiking
Known best for its hiking trails, you’ll be in no short supply of different routes to venture on when holidaying in the mountainous region. Depending on where you're staying, you might need to take a short car journey to your nearest public trail (which is exactly what we did). We followed a trail through Rastenbach Gorge, which meandered through woodland, past waterfalls, and led us to Lake Caldaro, where we watered, fed, and relaxed after our hard efforts.
The great thing about hiking in the Dolomites is that all abilities are catered to - you just need to know where to go. I’m no expert hiker, so it was nice to feel that the number one activity in the region is accessible for all.
Biking
If you're not the biggest biker, don't worry, the main way to get around out there is on an e-bike, which makes things a lot easier. Since it's such a hilly landscape, pedalling about on a manual bike should definitely be left to the Chris Hoys of the world.
The bikes are lighter than you anticipate and very easy to use. The electric motor helps propel you up those steep inclines with little to no extra effort, meaning you can really take in those stunning vistas. Although if you *are* after a serious challenge, normal bikes are available to hire too.
Where we ate
Punkt
A fab little spot in the centre of town, perfect for people watching with a spritz in hand. The lunch menu is only available until 2pm so be wary about what time you head here, although I'd recommend it more for a sit and a sip rather than for the food.
Best for: Afternoon spritz
Panholzer
A great option for a more sophisticated dining experience. If you're abroad for a special occasion, this is the place you'll want to book for your celebratory meal.
Best for: Special occasion meal
Vineria
Wine with a view - what more could you need? If you can bag a table on the balcony, then this is an ideal spot for a 5pm glass to watch the sun go down. Their wine list is extensive and comes with some complimentary snacks too.
Best for: Wine
Restaurant Lido
Restaurant Lido is the perfect midway point for a rest and refuel on any hike or bike tour you're doing. Nestled lakeside, the cafe-come-wild-swimming spot suits all needs, from taking a refreshing dip in the open water to getting your caffeine fix. They also do an *insane* ice-cream sundae, if that's what you're into.
Best for: Coffee break
Eisdiele Innerhofer Gelateria
If you're mooching around the square in Kaltern, then you'll no doubt come across this ice cream shop. Pick up a scoop or two to save you from the afternoon sun before heading on over to visit the neighbouring church or take yourself for a spot of shopping.
Best for: Ice cream
Seehotel Ambach
Without a doubt, the coolest place in Kaltern. This 70s-inspired hotel will give you serious interiors envy and is the perfect backdrop for Insta-worthy snaps. Dine on their Asian-fusion menu and follow up with a dip in the lake - perfection.
Best for: Lakeside lunch
If you've been looking for a fun mini-getaway destination that offers something a little different than your typical city-break, then the Dolomites (and specifically the village of Kaltern) does it all. Activities in the morning, lounging by the pool in the afternoon, a spritz in the evening, and dinner with good quality wine, views, and company. And a wine-focused holiday is without a doubt a holiday for the girls. We’re thinking hen-parties, 30th birthdays, mum and daughter getaways, you know the drill!
Amy May Ellis (she/her) is the SEO Manager for Cosmopolitan UK, Women's Health UK, Men's Health UK, and Runner's World UK. Her love for all things beauty, fashion, and wellness is evident in her work with these lifestyle and fitness brands. Providing content recommendations for everything from new gut health supplements to the latest fashion trend, Amy has a keen eye for detail and loves to spot trends before they fully flourish.
