Welcome to Italy, SYB-style. After you land at Venice airport, you will hop on our three hour SYB shuttle through the mountains to our hotel in Merano. We will shake off the travel with a quick stretch and workout, then hit the spa before our first group dinner. Just like that, your new crew is born.
Next, we hit the trails. Expect some of the most iconic hikes in the Dolomites including Val di Funes, the Seceda ridgelines, Alpe di Siusi, Catennacio, and Val di Fassa. Along the way, we stop at classic Rifugios, those rustic mountain huts serving cold beers and hearty alpine dishes. Picture yourself trekking through lush valleys, plunging into alpine lakes, and chasing summit views that feel straight out of a fantasy. Evenings are for winding down: spa soaks, infinity-pool hangs, and sunset aperitivos in town.
After days of conquering peaks, nothing beats lounging back at our mountain hotel, swapping stories with a spritz in hand. Then it is time to change the vibe. We head south to Lake Garda, where bougie living takes over. Expect beach hangs, Italian nightlife, and long lazy lake swims. We will also take out mountain e-bikes and ride trails that wind along the lake and through vineyard-dotted hillsides.
And of course, the grand finale is our legendary MF Boat Day, Dolomites edition. We will cruise turquoise waters, jump in for swims, blast the music, and celebrate under the Italian sun until the week caps off in true SYB style.
This is not just hiking. It is mountain summits, lakeside luxury, e-bike adventures, and nonstop energy with the wildest crew you will ever meet.
Plan your flights into Venice International Airport (VCE). You will need to arrive before 12pm on the first day to catch our SYB shuttle to Merano. If you miss it, your only options are a very, very long bus ride or a very, very expensive taxi, so trust us, you want to be on that shuttle.
On departure day, our SYB bus leaves the hotel at 8am and arrives at Venice Airport by 10am. Book your flight anytime after 12pm to give yourself a smooth check-in and stress-free send-off.
Yes, travel and medical insurance is required. You must secure it before joining the program. If you choose not to purchase insurance, you accept full responsibility and agree to our cancellation policy.
To reserve your spot, a 20% deposit is required. This goes toward your total payment. The remaining balance is due six weeks before the program start date.
If you cancel more than 45 days before the program begins, you’ll receive trip credit that can be used toward any future SYB trip within 12 months.
If you cancel within 45 days, your payment is non-refundable and non-transferable. No exceptions.
We do not offer refunds for any reason. Travel insurance helps protect your investment if anything unexpected happens. It’s worth it.
We are adventuring through two of the most stunning regions in Northern Italy. First stop is Merano, a mountain spa town tucked into the Dolomites, famous for its medieval charm, alpine trails, and thermal spas. From here we set out on legendary hikes like Val di Funes, Seceda, Alpe di Siusi, Catennacio, and Val di Fassa, with plenty of Rifugio stops for cold beers and hearty mountain meals.
After conquering the peaks, we head south to Lake Garda, Italy’s largest and most glamorous lake. Think turquoise waters, mountain e-biking along vineyard trails, bougie hotels with gardens and pools, and our unforgettable MF Boat Day where we swim, party, and celebrate under the Italian sun.
This trip blends alpine adventure with lakeside luxury, giving you the best of both worlds.
This adventure kicks off on Monday, August 31, 2026 and wraps up on Sunday, September 6, 2026. Seven days of mountains, lakes, spritzes, and stories you’ll never forget.
We’ve got most of your meals covered. You’ll enjoy all breakfasts and four group dinners. The only exceptions are two dinners (one in Merano and one in Lake Garda) and lunches in town. These are chances to explore smaller, authentic restaurants that can’t handle a crew our size but serve up some of the best food you’ll find in Italy.
Alcohol is not provided. Bring cash to grab drinks for yourself, or treat your new friends if you’re feeling sexy.
In Merano, we’re staying at the 4-star Prinz Rudolf Smart Hotel. Just 300 meters from the Meran cable-way, it’s surrounded by forests and apple orchards with panoramic views of the Dolomites. The hotel has a beautiful outdoor pool and wellness facilities with two saunas, making it the perfect spot to relax after our alpine hikes.
In Lake Garda, our base is the 4-star Hotel Oasi. Set right along the lake in Riva del Garda, this stylish retreat blends mountain and lake vibes with an outdoor pool, spa area, and easy access to both the waterfront and the lively town center. After boat days, e-bike rides, or nights out, Hotel Oasi is where we’ll recharge and soak in the Garda sunshine.
We have airport shuttles arranged for everyone. On arrival day, plan to land at Venice Airport before 12pm so you can catch the SYB bus to Merano.
On departure day, the shuttle will leave the hotel at 8am and arrive at Venice Airport by 10am. Be sure to book your flight after 12pm to give yourself enough time for check-in.
Throughout the trip, our private SYB bus will take us to every destination. From trailheads in the Dolomites to boat day on Lake Garda, you can relax knowing all transportation is taken care of.
Yes, daily.
We’ve got a crew coming through to clean up after you filthy animals so your space stays fresh, even if you don’t. 😎
The Dolomites and Lake Garda are some of the safest regions in Italy, both for travelers and locals. The towns we visit are small, friendly, and welcoming, so you can feel comfortable exploring on your own during free time.
Our SYB leaders and guides know the area well and will always brief you before hikes and activities. Trails are clearly marked, and we hike together as a group, making sure no one gets left behind. If you ever need a break, there are always options to shorten a hike, rest at a Rifugio, or head back with a leader.
For your personal belongings, we recommend leaving valuables at home and using the hotel safes for passports and extras. Carry only what you need during the day, and bring some cash for Rifugios and local meals.
With common sense and our crew looking out for each other, safety will never be a concern, letting you focus fully on the adventure.
Your health and safety come first on every SYB trip. We always travel with leaders who are first-aid certified and know the area well. In case of an emergency, there are hospitals and clinics in both Merano and Riva del Garda, so professional care is never far away.
We recommend packing any personal medications you may need for the week and keeping them in their original containers. If you have allergies or medical conditions, let us know ahead of time so our team can be prepared.
Travel and medical insurance is required for this trip. This protects you in case of injury, illness, or travel disruption and gives you peace of mind while adventuring in the mountains and by the lake.
Our hikes are designed for all levels, whether you are an experienced trekker or just someone who loves being outdoors. The trails range from moderate to challenging, with plenty of breaks at Rifugios to rest, refuel, and enjoy the views.
The only exception is if you have never hiked before. These trails require some comfort with walking on uneven terrain, uphill climbs, and spending a few hours on your feet. If you can handle a long walk in the city or a workout, you will be more than ready for the Dolomites.
We always move together as a crew, and there are options to shorten or modify hikes if needed. Think of it as pushing yourself in the best way, surrounded by the most supportive group you could ask for.
We will mix in workouts throughout the week, but the main focus is on stretching and yoga to keep your body loose and ready for the hikes. These sessions are all about recovery, mobility, and making sure your legs feel fresh for the trails.
When we do fire up a workout, expect fun group fitness like boot camps or high-energy circuits that get everyone moving together. There is nothing better than flowing through yoga at sunrise, shaking out the soreness, and priming your body with your new SYB crew before a big day of adventure.
The local currency is the Euro. International currencies are not accepted outside of banks or exchange offices.
We recommend bringing around €300 to €400 in cash for bars, Rifugio beers, and the two dinners not included in the trip. If you like to go big on food and drinks, bring a little extra so you never feel limited. For reference, the average price of a cocktail is about €12.
There are ATMs in both Merano and Venice. Be sure to inform your bank before traveling and check for international withdrawal fees. If possible, it is best to withdraw money in your home country before arrival to avoid surprises.
Most meals, transportation, and activities are already included, so cash will only be needed for extras.
You will never go thirsty on this trip. In the Dolomites, fresh water flows straight from the mountains and you will often see pipes along the trails where you can fill your bottle. The water is crisp, clean, and completely safe to drink.
At our hotels in Merano and Lake Garda, tap water is also safe and refreshing. We highly recommend bringing a refillable water bottle so you can stay hydrated during hikes and cut down on single-use plastic.
Absolutely, and we actually recommend it. This trip is your chance to show up as your truest, most adventurous self. No baggage, no expectations, no old routines.
When you come solo, you open yourself up to deeper connections, new experiences, and a crew that becomes instant family.
We totally get that it can feel intimidating at first, but trust us, this is the best way to do it. Most of our guests come solo, and by day one, you won’t feel that way anymore.
No need to whip out your phone or camera at any point throughout this trip because we have got you covered. We will have a professional photographer and videographer joining us on this trip to capture every moment. These will be the best travel photos and videos you will ever get, you're friends better be ready for a photo dump out of their wildest dreams!!
This experience is included in trip fees.
This is a mountain adventure, not a yoga retreat or luxury getaway. Our accommodations in the Dolomites are cozy, clean, and perfectly located for exploring this stunning region. Surrounded by alpine peaks and trails, they give you the ideal mix of comfort and adventure. Being in the mountains also means embracing the outdoors and maybe even spotting some local wildlife. It is all part of the charm.
Expect mornings on alpine trails, mountain-inspired workouts, and evening stretch or yoga sessions with epic views. We balance the activity with group dinners full of Northern Italian flavors, strolls through medieval towns, and time to relax with local wines and beers.
You can always go at your own pace. Skip a hike or recharge at the hotel spa if that feels right for you. With an open mind, a spirit for adventure, and a solid pair of hiking boots, you are set to experience the magic of the Italian Dolomites.
