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DOLOMITES & LAKE COMO

Ortisei, Puez Odle, Alpe di Siusi & Lago di Como

Stunning and striking vertical reefs, majestic valleys, and crystal clear lakes.

We’ve combined two of Italy’s most majestic destinations into one amazing photo adventure. Our 7-day Dolomites & Lago di Como (Lake Como) Photo Tour and Cultural Adventure is sure to take your breath away with its natural beauty and unique location on everyday of the tour..

What makes the Dolomite mountains so unique is how their fabulous vertical reefs glow in the changing light and present a startling and dramatic contrast to the pastoral beauty beneath. The region’s early morning and late afternoon light paint stunning sun-drenched vistas that are magical and captivating and a photographer’s dream.

Comprising over 90,000 acres of mountainous terrain, the Italian Dolomites offer a unique corner of the Alps with distinctive geology and a fascinating blend of cultures. The geological origin dates back some 230 million years when the rock was deposited in the form of marine sediments and coral in a low open sea (that’s why you can find fossilized shells and marine remains along the paths of these mountains). This material formed the base of the mountains. Much later, around 65 million years ago, the rocks were lifted high up by various tectonic events, and the Alps came into existence.

The Dolomites are notable for their composition of pale-colored dolomite — a limestone-like rock formed beneath deep, ancient seas — atop darker volcanic bedding. Our workshop is set in a valley known as Selva de Val Gardena, in the western Dolomite mountains surrounded by these limestone formations.

After four days in the Dolomites, we move on to the most famous of the Italian lakes, Lake Como. It has absolutely stunning views of the surrounding majestic Alps with their deep valleys running through them. The towns and villages along the shores of the lake are stunningly picturesque. The opportunity for amazing photographs is everywhere, from villas to villages, ruins, picturesque narrow alleyways, and streets along the lakeside. We’ll spend the last 2 nights in the romantic village of Varenna.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. The Dolomite Mountains are the perfect backdrop for this Nature, Wildlife and Landscape Photo Workshop Adventure. Join us for an adventure of a lifetime.

Comprising over 90,000 acres of mountainous terrain, the Italian Dolomites offer a unique corner of the Alps with distinctive geology and a fascinating blend of cultures. The geological origin dates back some 230 million years when the rock was deposited in the form of marine sediments and coral in a low open sea (that’s why you can find fossilized shells and marine remains along the paths of these mountains). This material formed the base of the mountains. Much later, around 65 million years ago, the rocks were lifted high up by various tectonic events, and the Alps came into existence.

The Dolomites are notable for their composition of pale-colored dolomite — a limestone-like rock formed beneath deep, ancient seas — atop darker volcanic bedding. Our workshop is set in a valley known as Selva de Val Gardena, in the western Dolomite mountains surrounded by these limestone formations.

After four days in the Dolomites, we move on to the most famous of the Italian lakes, Lake Como. It has absolutely stunning views of the surrounding majestic Alps with their deep valleys running through them. The towns and villages along the lakes shores are stunningly picturesque. The opportunity for amazing photographs is everywhere, from villas to villages, ruins, picturesque narrow alleyways, and streets along the lakeside. We’ll spend the last 2 nights in the romantic village of Varenna.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. The Dolomite Mountains are the perfect backdrop for this Nature, Wildlife and Landscape Photo Workshop Adventure. Join us for an adventure of a lifetime.

Group Size

4-8 Guests

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
  • DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
  • Busy schedule
  • Travel by car and minibus
  • Considerable elevation changes and lots of walking (hiking optional)
  • (non-photographers also welcome)

Weather | Sun

July – Temps 85/60 F  30/15 C  Sunrise 5:43 | Sunset 9:01 (21:01)

Includes

  • 7 Days
  • Travel, landscape, seascape, architecture, and wildlife photography
  • Professional photographer | guide
  • Photo walks & discussions
  • Small group size (4-8 guests)
  • 4 or 5-star hotels (except in remote locations)
  • Breakfasts
  • 2 Dinners
  • Local transportation

Travel Information

Arrival Airport: Bolzano (BZO) – Transfer Time to Ortisei: 45min
Arrival Airport: Verona (VRN) – Transfer Time to Ortisei: 2hrs
Arrival Airport: Milan Malpensa (MXP) – Transfer Time to Ortisei: 3hrs 45min
Departure Airport: Milan Malpensa (MXP) – Transfer Time from Varenna: 1hr 25min
Our adventure begins at 11 AM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day.
(We will provide you with airport transfer options and information when you register)
Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. Go to Visa Map to find out.

Accommodations

Ortisei – Hotel Adler Resort, Hotel Alpenheim or similar
Varenna – Hotel Royal Victoria, Hotel du Lac or similar

Helpful Links

> Chasing the Milky Way in the Dolomites – by Anja Kallenbach
> Eat, Photograph, Love in South Tyrol – By Anja Kallenbach

Dolomites & Lake Como Prices & Dates

Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Roman Martin

June 2–8, 2024

Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Attilio Di Giangiacomo

June 1–7, 2025

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

DOLOMITES & LAKE COMO 7 DAYS

Day 1 | Ortisei - Selva de Val Gardena

We meet at our hotel in the morning, where we will being by discussing PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles to Great Photography” as well as our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique. During our group lunch, we will have informal discussions on what our guests are trying to achieve in their photography, subject matters, styles, and techniques.

From here, we will set out for a pleasant day of photography throughout the Ortisei and Selva region, including the beautiful village of Selva de Val Gardena.

After a sunset photoshoot, we celebrate with a Welcome Dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. (D)

Day 2 | Alpe di Siusi - Ortisei

In the morning, we will visit the largest high-altitude Alpine meadow in Europe – Alpe di Siusi National Park. Located in Italy’s South Tyrol province in the Dolomites mountain range, it is a major tourist attraction.

In the afternoon we return to Ortisei, and with an altitude of 4055 ft (1236 m) above sea level, it makes Ortisei the ideal place for winter and summer holidays. With its old and solid mercantile tradition and rich history, Ortisei exhibits an urban plan that blends harmoniously with the landscape. The center of the village is designed with a pedestrian-only area making it a wonderful meeting place. From here one may easily wander off into the woods in search of an old farm.

In the early evening, we enjoy dinner at the Seceda Sofie hut with a sunset photo shoot. (B)

Day 3 | The Dolomites

On day three, we set out to explore some of the most amazing locations in the Dolomites, including Passo Gardena, Passo Val Parola – Falzarego, Passo Pordoi – Terrazza delle Dolomiti and Passo Sella. We will travel by minibus that will give us easy access and time to discuss photography while traveling. In the evening, we again enjoy a sunset photo shoot. (B)

Day 4 | Puez Odle National Park

On day four, we’ll spend the entire day visiting the Puez Odle Nature Park. This is a very special place for nature lovers. It offers many hiking trails, vie ferrate, high peaks, and protected flower fields, but what makes the nature park so unique, are the openly displayed rocks and layers, which show the evolution of the Dolomites. In 2009 the Dolomites and the Puez-Odle Nature Park were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

In the evening we will capture one of the most iconic Dolomite sunset shots. We will return to Ortisei for dinner. (B)

Day 5 | Ortisei - Varenna (Lago di Como)

We depart early for our drive to Varenna on Lake Como (Lago di Como). If time permits, we may stop in the city of Balzano which is along the way. Varenna is a charming storybook village that will steal your heart. We’ll spend the later afternoon exploring and preparing for a sunset shoot. (B)

Day 6 | Varenna - Bellagio - Villa d'Est

We are up early to travel by ferry to Bellagio, Villa d’Est, and more. Our day will be filled with photo opportunities throughout these beautiful villages that dot the shoreline. Midday you will probably be tempted to take a dip in the lake.

After sunset, we will enjoy our wonderful Farewell Dinner with great fun and laughter, and finally, one last gelato before saying goodnight. (B) (D)

Day 7 | Varenna - Milan

On our final day, we awake early for our last photo walk. During breakfast we will have our final group discussion, review our past week’s photos, trade contact information and bid you farewell. You can take a train from Varenna to Milan, or we will be happy to transport you to the airport.

We urge you to extend your stay on Lake Como or elsewhere in Italy and make good use of everything you will learn on our Dolomites and Lake Como photo adventure. (B)

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

 

May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

 

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS

Pricing

All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.

Private Guided Adventures

We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.

Travel Insurance

We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.

The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.

Rewards Program

Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!

How The Program Works
For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.

ORANGE REWARDS
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.

GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.

Additional Gold Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers

VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).

Additional VIP Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
  • Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
  • Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*

Redeeming Your Points
Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.

THINK ORANGE Magazine

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

Gift Cards

Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo  Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.

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