Dolomites + Solden summer

About the destination: Vipiteno, the alpine town, enchants its visitors with a unique charm. Enjoy your holiday in Südtirol. Summer or winter, there is always something going on: traditional events, wonderful walks, fantastic ski slopes, unique sledding fun - holidays for everyone! The small town, which once served as a refuge for kings and emperors, is a sparkling jewel rich in ancient art, boasting in particular numerous wonderful bay windows as well as elegant boutiques today. The picturesque old town is one of the most beautiful centres of Italy and a real pearl of South Tyrol.

About the destination: At c. 467 km2 (180 sq mi), it is the largest municipality in the country. The population of 3,449 (as of 2003) is outnumbered by tourists, of which 15,000 can be accommodated. With tourist bed nights running at over two million per year, the municipality is third only to Vienna and Salzburg as an Austrian tourist destination. Sölden has lost some of its former small village charm, but other attractions have been enhanced in recent years. The main village of Sölden is at an elevation of 1,368 metres (4,488 ft) above sea level, and the upper village of Hochsölden at 2,090 m (6,857 ft) has 5 four-star hotels. The highest peak is the Wildspitze, at 3,768 m (12,362 ft), the second highest mountain in Austria, after the Großglockner. The Ötztal Glacier Road is the second highest paved road in Europe. It is the access road from Sölden to the Rettenbach glacier and Tiefenbachferner glaciers in the Ötztal Alps. The English spelling of the town is "Soelden". One may come across websites and directions using this spelling of the town.