Day 1-4
Day 1-4
Welcome to the Dolomites
Your journey begins in Venice, where we leave the canals behind and travel by comfortable minivan into the heart of the Italian Alps. Over the next four days, we’ll explore some of the most iconic and photogenic locations in the Cortina d’Ampezzo area—each a masterpiece of light, color, and texture.
From the sweeping curves of Passo Giau, where every turn reveals a new dramatic vista, to the towering stone sentinels of the Cinque Torri, these landscapes seem made for a photographer’s lens. We’ll capture the mirror-like reflections of Lake Misurina, framed by peaks and forests, and experience the awe of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, whose jagged silhouettes are among the most recognized in the Alps.
We’ll also visit the Lago di Braies, a stunning alpine lake with crystal-clear emerald waters set against a backdrop of steep, forested mountains, a true jewel for both photography and quiet reflection.
Mornings and evenings will be dedicated to the golden hours, chasing perfect light across ridges and valleys. Between shoots, there will be time to enjoy the warm atmosphere of alpine villages, taste local specialties, and immerse yourself in the unique rhythm of mountain life. These first days set the tone for an unforgettable photographic adventure, where every frame tells a story of the Dolomites’ grandeur.
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Day 5
Day 5
Alpine Lodge Experience!
Today is dedicated entirely to one of the Dolomites’ most celebrated landmarks: the Cinque Torri. From their base at 2,236 meters (7,336 feet), these monumental rock towers dominate the landscape, surrounded by sweeping alpine meadows and framed by the peaks of Averau and Nuvolau. We’ll explore the network of trails and historic sites here, including the remarkably preserved World War I trenches, which offer both a fascinating glimpse into history and unique photographic perspectives.
As evening approaches, we settle into the Rifugio Scoiattoli, a cozy mountain lodge perched directly in front of the towers. Here, we’ll witness a spectacle of light as the sun dips behind the peaks, bathing the rock in warm hues of gold and crimson. After a hearty dinner, famed for its generous portions and local flavors, we’ll rest in the comfort of the rifugio, ready for an early wake-up.
At dawn, the Cinque Torri will greet us again, this time under the soft, pastel glow of sunrise. The shifting light, the crisp mountain air, and the silence broken only by distant cowbells make this a truly unforgettable experience, both for your lens and your soul.
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Day 6-8
Day 6-8
Exploring the Western Dolomites
After the dramatic peaks of the Cinque Torri, we turn west to discover another side of the Dolomites, equally spectacular but with a distinct character. Over the next three days, we’ll immerse ourselves in sweeping alpine panoramas, charming villages, and iconic viewpoints that feel almost otherworldly.
Our journey begins with the Passo Pordoi, accessible via a scenic cable car that brings us to the Terrazza delle Dolomiti. From this vantage point, the surrounding peaks stretch endlessly, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities and a chance to truly appreciate the scale and grandeur of these mountains.
Next, we explore Ortisei, the heart of Val Gardena. Here, the majestic landscapes of the Seceda and the rolling meadows of the Alpe di Siusi provide endless frames for your lens, from dramatic ridgelines to soft, pastoral scenes dotted with traditional alpine huts.
Finally, we visit the enchanting Santa Maddalena, a picture-perfect village with small chapels nestled in the forest at the foot of the Odle peaks. This area, with its delicate interplay of light, shadow, and iconic alpine architecture, creates a truly fairytale-like setting to close our Dolomites adventure.
Each day balances exploration with moments to savor the alpine atmosphere, pause for coffee in mountain cafés, enjoy local specialties, and let the breathtaking scenery leave its mark on both your camera and your memory.
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Day 9
Day 9
Arrivederci
As our Dolomites adventure comes to a close, you have two options. You can return to Venice (or continue to other Italian destinations) to conclude your journey, taking with you unforgettable memories and a rich collection of photographs.
Alternatively, extend your experience with us for three more days exploring the charming villages of South Tyrol: Bressanone, Vipiteno, and Merano, where relaxation, culture, and gentle alpine scenery await, offering the perfect complement to your Dolomites adventure.
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South Tyrol EXT
South Tyrol EXT
South Tyrol Villages
Perfectly designed to unwind after an 8-day Dolomites journey, this three-day South Tyrol extension offers a leisurely exploration of alpine charm. Stroll through the picturesque streets of Bressanone and Vipiteno, discovering quaint villages steeped in unique local culture and traditions distinct from those experienced on the Grand Tour.
Enjoy panoramic views from the Plose mountains, gentle alpine pastures, and the elegant town of Merano, with its promenades, botanical gardens, and soothing thermal baths. This escape blends scenic beauty, cultural richness, and pure relaxation, letting you recharge while still uncovering hidden gems of the South Tyrolean Alps.
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Carl Sanquist
Carl Sanquist
Instructor
Meet Carl Sandquist, a landscape photographer who has a passion for capturing the beauty and wonder of nature. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to quality, Carl travels the world and creates stunning landscape images that not only captivate the viewer, but also inspire the senses.
See Carl's Portfolio
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Mauro Riva
Mauro Riva
Local Host and Guide
Mauro is a travel professional and passionate photographer with a love for nature and exploration. Born in the heart of the Dolomites, he has an intimate knowledge of their majestic landscapes, traditions, and culture. His true passion lies in uncovering places and stories that inspire, connect, and transform.
See Mauro's images
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Day 1-4

Welcome to the Dolomites

Tony M.

Can’t say enough about the superb concierge service we received from Mauro. His attention to detail blew me away. We felt like VIPs from beginning to end and his knowledge of the area dovetailed perfectly with the activities we suggested and which he made happen without flaw. Thank you again my friend for the great memories we made in Italy.

By Martin C for 2025 PRIVATE - Dolomites Hiking & Biking Tour on Sep 28, 2025

This was an extraordinary trip! Drake and his team, Gabrielle and Mauro, organized the best locations for our workshop. Our accommodations were unique (even a cave in Matera!) Drake’s review and coaching of our photography was really helpful - and kind. With a range of skill among the travelers, that was great. The experiences in small towns, were beautifully thought out. Meals were excellent! We had a small group, so we could be flexible in making small adjustments to the itinerary if needed or a better opportunity presented itself. This is our second time to travel with Italy Workshops and it won’t be the last!

By Lana S for Puglia & Matera / Best of Southern Italy on Jun 03, 2025

When our very good friends suggested we join them on a photography trip to southern Italy, my wife and I loved the idea of seeing Southern Italy for the first time, but we were concerned about the photography part of the trip. We are photography novices. We asked if we could use our cell phone cameras and were assured that we could and indeed others already had on previous trips. Then our friends offered to loan us their old cameras, an offer we accepted. The first day of the tour our apprehensions were quickly dispelled by Drake, the tour operator and owner, and by our tour leader, Gabrille, who walked with us and gave us suggestions, answered our many questions, and even explained how to use our loaner cameras. I should add that Drake and his colleagues, Gabriele and Mauro, are truly an exceptional team of tour leaders, photography educators, and, by the end of the trip, friends. The trip included wonderful and historic accommodations (Trulli houses and cave rooms!) as well as unique experiences with the local community (a cheese making farm, for instance). And, of course, the food was excellent. If you go on this trip, you will see a beautiful, seldom seen part of Italy with excellent leaders and a group of similarly interested participants who will likely become friends by the end of your tour. You will also enjoy increasing your photography skills.

By Robert T for Puglia & Matera / Best of Southern Italy on May 24, 2025

My mother and me joined the Dolomites workshop in 2019, so our expectations were high. Puglia didn't let us down. This workshop was (again) unforgetable. The atmosphere, the places we visited, the food, the other 'students' (who we had so much fun with), the hotels (absolutely unbelievably beautiful) and the way Drake and Gabriele (and later on also Mauro) arranged everything for us. We come from the Netherlands and my mother had to go back to Holland (and return to Italy again) for a funeral and they did everything they could to help us arranging everything. Very helpful! Drake is the best to lead a photoworkshop: he's a very experienced and extremely good photographer and besides he's a man with a good social sensor who can get along with everybody, who makes you feel at ease. Add an overdose Adobe-software experience to that and a vast knowledge of the Italian country, the language and local customs and the result is the perfect host to lead tours like the ones Italy Photoworkshops arrange. Thank you Drake, Gabriele and Mauro, for everything. Thanks to you my mother and me were able to make some unforgettable memories.

By Wendy J for Puglia & Matera / Best of Southern Italy on May 16, 2025

My trip to the Tuscia region of Italy with Gabriele as my guide was unforgettable. We explored the medieval charm of Viterbo, the ancient Etruscan tombs and roads, and the stunning grandeur of Villa Lante and Villa Farnese—each brought to life by Gabriele’s deep historical knowledge, engaging storytelling, and outstanding photo spots. His passion for the region, attention to detail, and warm personality made the experience special. I highly recommend him to anyone wanting to discover the authentic heart of central Italy!