If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ve probably seen the Dolomites featured as one of the world’s top adventure destinations across social media and travel publications. But if you haven’t, we’ve put together five reasons the Dolomites and Lake Garda are exceptional destinations for a Scouting or Girlguiding adventure.
1. Spectacular scenery that will leave you in awe
Gaining UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2009 as a result of their incredible natural beauty and remarkable geological and geomorphological importance, the Dolomites spans over 250 million years of history! From volcanic eruptions and tectonic plate collisions to ancient tropical seas and coral reef platforms, they give groups an insight like no other into the ever-changing story of our planet, all the while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Dolomites.
We also can’t forget to mention the mesmerising sunrises and sunsets you’ll witness against the jagged rock formations. During sunrise and sunset, you may get to see the natural phenomenon known as Enrosadira, where the pale grey limestone of the rock faces turns to glowing shades of yellow, orange, pink and violet as the sun reaches the horizon. It truly is a magical and unforgettable experience, so get the camera ready, as this is something you definitely don’t want to miss!
2. High adrenaline fun!
The Dolomites is one of Europe’s best alpine playgrounds and should be a top contender for any Scouting or Girlguiding adventure holiday. From canyoning through natural gorges and waterfalls to high ropes courses, cable car rides and more, your week in the Dolomites will be action-packed from morning until evening.
Our highlights on an adventure trip to the Dolomites have to be hiking through the incredible mountain ranges and white-water rafting on the renowned Noce River. National Geographic ranked the River Noce as one of the most highly rated rafting rivers in the world and regarded as one of the top choices for river rafting in Europe as a result of the continuous Grade II-IV rapids, which make it a great option for those looking for pure adrenaline.
As well as world-class white-water rafting and canyoning, groups can take to the calmer water and enjoy the variety of water sports options the Dolomites have to offer. Jump in a kayak or canoe and enjoy the scenic paddles across the crystal-clear alpine lakes.
3. A unique cultural experience
The Dolomites provides groups with not only thrilling, high energy experiences, but a plethora of cultural ones too. Scouts and Girl Guides can experience the rich cultural mix of Austrian, Italian and Ladin traditions, cuisines and customs throughout their stay. They can learn about alpine living, sample classic regional staples such as Canederli for starters, Gulasch for a main meal and of course, apple strudel for dessert!
Groups can also embark on a boat tour to Lake Garda and explore the picturesque waterfront towns of Riva del Garda and Limone sul Garda. Discover the amazing lemon groves, colourful houses and stunning piazzas as you spend free time wandering through these snapshot worthy areas of Lake Gaa.
4. Built in self-development and team building
On any Scouting and Girlguiding adventure trip, each member will return with new skills and experiences that help shape their understanding of the world around them. Being immersed in the great outdoors and new cultures is a great way for groups to connect with one another as they try new things, such as is an exhilarating activity or new cuisines.
Taking young members away from their daily routines gives them time and space to develop key, lifelong skills, such as confidence, time and money management, as well as a sense of overall responsibility. For some Scouts and Girl Guides, it may be their first time away from home or in a new country and that in itself is a huge step towards gaining independence.
Additionally, spending time as a group completing adventurous activities provides groups with the chance to strengthen bonds in a fun and unique way. Team building is a big part of being a Scout or Girl Guide and requires groups to work together, support one another and celebrate accomplishments together, and on an adventure trip this is needed in the bucketloads!
Whether it’s shouting words of encouragement as a member takes part in a daring task or making a splash at the waterpark, a trip to the Dolomites provides countless opportunities for Scouts and Guides to step outside their comfort zones, challenge themselves and create memories that brings the group closer together long after the adventure is over.
5. Environmental awareness
The Dolomites and Lake Garda are a fantastic destination for young members to gain environmental awareness. The UNESCO World Heritage Site has become a living classroom, showcasing the geological and geomorphology changes the landscape has gone though over the span of 250 million years. These changes are displayed through fossilized coral reefs, weathering and erosion, shifting ecosystems and global warming.
It also provides groups with the opportunity to learn and practice the ‘Leave No Trace’ principle, cultivating their personal responsibility and understanding the effects they can have on nature. It teaches young members how to prepare and plan ahead for outdoor activities and emergencies, how to travel safely without damaging ecosystems, and to respect their surroundings.
Not only this, but an adventure trip to the Dolomites is also an occasion for Scouts and Guides to unplug from daily screen usage and to encourages them to take in their surroundings, connecting with nature on a deeper level and experiencing the natural wonder and beauty of the world.
By combining adventure, self-discovery and fun with friends in a new environment, it can inspire and ignite a passion for the great outdoors leading to further discovery of new, exciting destinations and creates the desire to explore more of what the world has to offer. A ll it takes is one trip to an incredible destination, and that’s why the Dolomites should be first on the list.
Reach new hights on an adventure trip to the Dolomites and Lake Garda
With the help of an expert team on hand, planning your next adventure couldn’t be simpler. Speak to our team today and let us help you create an unforgettable adventure to the Dolomites and Lake Garda.
