Venice, Dolomites, and Tuscany Photography Tour II
Embark on an unforgettable photographic journey with Natural Exposures and immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, historic villages, and vibrant culture, with exceptional wines and culinary delights.
About this expedition
Who would not love to go to beautiful Italy? Any photographer or non-photographing spouse will enjoy it! Embark on an unforgettable photographic journey with Natural Exposures and immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, historic villages, and vibrant culture, with exceptional wines and culinary delights.
We’ll start in old-town Venice, exploring this city of waterways and color before continuing to the awe-inspiring Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Dolomites form part of the Southern Limestone Alps in northeastern Italy and are regarded as one of the most attractive alpine landscapes in the world. Eighteen peaks rise over 9,800 feet (3,000 meters). These mountains’ dramatic pinnacles, spires, and steeples contrast with the colorful meadows, tranquil forests, and gentle foothills below. The towering, light-colored rocky cliffs and pristine lakes reflect mesmerizing rose-tinted hues for unforgettable sunsets. Rivers meander through valleys dotted with small, peaceful villages. Can you smell the mountainous fresh air? Don’t miss this opportunity to capture striking photos of the majestic Dolomites!
Our latter days will be spent in beautiful Tuscany photographing idyllic landscapes, and with luck, our time here will coincide with Tuscany’s vibrant poppies. Walk the country roads and explore the little picturesque villages. Tuscany in the spring is like a Monet painting filled with lush green rolling fields, lonely cypress tree hillsides, and colorful canola fields. The weather is pleasant this time of year and not too hot. There will be some personal time to explore on your own between photo shoots with options for wine and cheese tastings, cooking classes, and more.
Itinerary
Monday, May 4
Arrive at Venice Marco Polo Airport and transfer to the Hotel Casanova Venezia in the heart of Venice. Get settled in and relax, or enjoy a leisurely walk through this iconic city’s charming streets and canals. We’ll gather for a group welcome dinner at a traditional Venetian trattoria to treat ourselves to the local flavors and ambiance. Overnight at Hotel Casanova Venezia
Tuesday, May 5
We’ll have a full day to explore and photograph Venice, focusing mainly on sunrise and sunset photography at iconic locations. Enjoy some free time today and take in all that Venice has to offer, including St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) and its bell tower, and the city’s interesting canals, bridges, and churches. You might want to include Burano Island on your Venice bucket list for a chance to capture its colorful buildings, small canals, and charming details.
Overnight at Hotel Casanova Venezia
Wednesday, May 6
Depart Venice in the morning for the Dolomites, a scenic three-hour drive. Upon arrival, we’ll check in at a cozy mountain lodge in Cortina d’Ampezzo, which will serve as our base for the next few days. In the evening, head out for a photography session to capture the dramatic mountain scenery that surrounds us as the day winds down. Overnight at Ambra Cortina (4-star)
Thursday, May 7 – Saturday, May 9
Over the next three days, we will explore and photograph the stunning views of Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” and the surrounding areas.
We can drive up high mountain passes such as Passo Giau and Passo Gardena. Capture stunning sunrises and sunsets at Cinque Torri (five towers), Lago di Misurina, Lago Antorno, and other hidden gems. Explore picturesque alpine villages like San Candido and Dobbiaco, blending cultural experiences with photography. Optional scenic hikes and gondola rides provide elevated perspectives of the majestic peaks.
A highlight for us in this area will be a visit to the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo. These three dramatic Dolomite peaks are famous worldwide for their unique charm, nature at its best!
When not shooting the beautiful scenery that surrounds us, take the opportunity to stroll around Cortina’s old town and drink an Italian coffee or Aperol Spritz. You won’t be in Cortina d’Ampezzo for too long before you’re aware of the town’s proudest moment: hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics. Cortina is a dream destination for skiers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Keep your eyes peeled, this mountain retreat is a popular vacation spot for celebrities, intellectuals, poets, and other aristocrats from around the world. James Bond fans may find interest in the 100-year-old Miramonti Majestic Grand Hotel and several other locations in the area that were featured in the 1981 Bond film For Your Eyes Only. For those attentive to the industry, Cortina is also home to some of the most prestigious names in fashion, including Gucci, Bulgari, and Geox.
Evenings are for relaxation, editing sessions, and enjoying delicious local cuisine at the lodge. Overnight at Ambra Cortina
Sunday, May 10
This morning, we bid farewell to the Dolomites and embark on a five-hour drive to Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia region. Upon arrival, check into our charming countryside hotel. Unwind with an evening of wine tasting and dinner featuring local specialties, setting the tone for your time in this idyllic region. Overnight at Relais Osteria dell’Orcia (4-star)
Monday, May 11 – Wednesday, May 13
Spend these three days exploring and photographing the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany. Begin each day with breathtaking sunrises at locations like Podere Baccoleno and the Chapel of Vitaleta. Visit charming villages such as Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for street photography and indulge in a pecorino cheese tasting. The pecorino cheese of Pienza is one of the best in Italy, especially the version “sotto cenere” or “under ashes.” Pecorino cheese is thought to have been produced in the area since people first settled there.
Participate in a mid-morning cooking class to learn authentic Tuscan recipes. Afternoons offer time to relax at the villa’s pool, while evenings are reserved for indulging in fine Tuscan wines and local cuisine. Each moment is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s beauty and culture. Overnight at Relais Osteria dell´Orcia
Thursday, May 14
If our flight schedules allow it, we’ll take time for a sunrise shoot to capture one last memory of this unforgettable journey. Depart from Venice or Florence in the late afternoon or evening.
If you want to extend your stay in Florence, our local guide recommends the Grand Hotel Baglioni.
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