friuli, tyrol & the dolomites
may 2027
DR nick eckstein
*** Preliminary Itinerary ***
Take a journey from Innsbruck to Friuli and discover the distinctive histories, cultures and cuisines of the spectacular alpine landscapes where Italy and Austria meet
OVERVIEW
From the majesty of the Dolomites, to hamlets nestled in narrow valleys and rugged forts along the ranges, the Alps in Austria and Italy have long entranced people from the plains below. But there’s more to the region than sheer physical beauty.
Discover the intriguing history and culture of these regions, which straddle the Italian and Germanic worlds, on this 13-day tour. Our journey begins in Innsbruck, an elegant former imperial capital and the gateway between Italy and the German-speaking world. From Austria, we cross over the Brenner Pass into Italy, where we encounter a vibrant medieval world of castles and chivalric art, including day trips to Trent, Brixen and Meran. After discovering the delights of this region, from prehistoric Ötzi the Iceman to the exceptional local wine, we continue into the heart of the Dolomites at Cortina d’Ampezzo. Here, the stunning natural beauty disguises its complex history at the border between Venice and Austria and then as a horrific theatre of trench warfare in WWI.
Continuing through the Dolomites, the tour concludes in Udine, where we enjoy magnificent Lombard architecture and decorative arts at Cividale del Friuli, masterpieces by Tiepolo, and the world-renowned gastronomy of Friuli.
TOUR LEADER
Dr Nick Eckstein is a historian with an international reputation for his innovative research into the society and culture of Renaissance Italy. Nick taught and researched in the History Department at the University of Sydney for 22 years. He has long been recognised as an inspiring teacher, and for his ability to bring the world of the Italian history and culture to life, and has received several University awards for his teaching.
Nick has led numerous tours to Italy, particularly to the centre-north of the country.
Highlights
Get to know Innsbruck, an imperial capital that has long been a gateway between Italy and the north
Discover diverse histories, from the astounding Copper Age Ötzi the Iceman in Bolzano to WWI in the Dolomites
Understand the sophisticated world of the Lombards at UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cividale del Friuli
Experience the majestic beauty of the region, including the unique landscapes of the Dolomites, alpine vineyards and the rolling foothills of Friuli
Soak up the distinctive architecture, cuisine and languages of the Dolomites and South Tyrol: pretty Venzone, Cortina d’Ampezzo and German-inflected Bolzano and Brixen
Questions?
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