Set at the foot of the rugged Dolomite Mountains, Cortina d’Ampezzo, the picturesque Italian town that once hosted the Winter Olympics, can now be explored by Silversea guests on a ‘Hiking in Cortina’ land programme.
Cortina is today known as much for its designer boutiques and chic restaurants as its world-class ski competitions. The optional three-night, pre- or post-cruise programme is offered this summer on Mediterranean cruises departing or concluding in Venice.
For more adventurous travellers, the new ‘Hiking in Cortina’ tour also features a guided alpine trek along a via ferrata, or ‘iron road’. The narrow route is equipped with steel cables, ladders and other fixed anchors, such as wooden walkways and suspended bridges, making it possible for hikers of all skill levels to hike on ledges, climb vertical walls, and reach mountain peaks. Hikers set their own pace, and can hike for as long as they prefer.
The itinerary includes three nights accommodation at Rosapetra Spa Resort, where participants meet with their alpine guide to determine the itinerary best suited to their skill levels. Safety equipment including a helmet, harness, gloves, and other cable gear is provided. During their stay at Rosapetra, guests will also receive complimentary access to the resort’s heated swimming pool, whirlpool, sauna, and Mediterranean and Turkish baths.
“Our new ‘Hiking in Cortina’ programme is a great option for soft-adventure travellers seeking a more immersive land experience in conjunction with their Mediterranean cruise,” said Darius Mehta, Silversea’s Vice President of Air and Land Programmes. “It’s a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and rejuvenation, all set in one of the world’s most beautiful mountain ranges.”
The programme is available on 17 Mediterranean voyages from Venice. These voyages include Silver Shore Select excursions in every port of call and two hours of complimentary wi-fi per guest, per day, or unlimited wi-fi for Medallion and higher category suites, for bookings made on or after January 2015.
Sample itineraries include:
Voyage 2519, Silver Wind, 9th – 19th July, Rome to Venice, with calls in Sorrento, Amalfi, Lipari, Siracusa, Dubrovnik, Hvar, and Koper. Cruise fares from £3,750 per person/double occupancy.
Voyage 5523, Silver Spirit, 10th – 19th August, Venice to Istanbul, with calls in Ravenna, Trogir, Kotor, Corfu, Katakolon, Santorini, and Kusadasi. Cruise fares from £3,450 per person/double occupancy.
Voyage 5527, Silver Spirit, 11th – 18th September, Venice to Venice, with calls in Ravenna, Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar, and Koper. Cruise fares from £2,850 per person/double occupancy.
The ‘Hiking in Cortina’ programme includes up to eight hours with a certified alpine guide, use of safety equipment, accommodation, transfers between airport, hotel and pier, and some meals. Participants should bring suitable clothing, boots, and a backpack. Tour prices start at £1,239 per person/double occupancy.
