Dolomites

I'm not sure this answer will be quite what you're looking for , but here's my take - the high point is the dolomites . Take the train to Bolzano and rent the car there .You will have much better use of your time while there , and taking the train back to Florence ( as well as going to the dolomites ) will be much more relaxing and easier on your nerves . Lots to explore in the mountains , and with the car you will really be able to have a ball .

We will already have the car following a driving trip through Tuscany. As we are are seniors and have limited walking ability it would be the drive that we would enjoy. We thought part of the route past Lake Garda may be scenic. Much appreciate your input

I understand , have a great trip ! When you get to the mountains , a couple of places that are worth your time - Ortisei , The Ritten ( Oberbozen ) , Dobbiaco ( Toblach ) , any number of locations in The Val Gardena , too many to mention . Writing from Toulouse , France right now .

We loved our stay in Ortisei in the Dolomites. We drove up the west side of Lake Garda to the Dolomites, staying overnight in Saló which was recommended by Italian friends. It is a lovely town, many nice shops, a waterfront promenade. I think we were the only ones from the US there! Our hotel, Bellerive, was very nice. Mostly Germans and Italians were in Salò
. When leaving Ortisei, we traveled down the east side of Lake Garda, this time staying in Malcesine. Our hotel was Il Castello and it had it’s own beach and beautiful mountain view’s. . Very nice. The town was quite touristy though.

We love Selva in the Val Gardena. Returning next summer 😊

I decided that I really wanted to go to the Dolomites once I found out more about it; problem was I'd already booked my flight to Milan and my hotel reservations in Florence which could not be cancelled w/o a hefty fee. I ended up taking a long train ride (but very comfortable) from Milan to Verona and then on to Bolzano to ? to catch a bus into Ortisei. I did not regret it as the scenery was beautiful as we headed north. and Ortisei had everything I wanted! I stayed at Casa al Sol and because it belonged to the Val Gardena Association, I got free access to a whole list of activities. As I got closer to the date of arriving, I looked at what was available (via the host at Casa Al Sol) and told him which two hikes I wanted to do and he made the arrangements! All I had to do was to pay for the cable car and for lunch at the refugio we stopped at as well as tip the guide. The town also has a lovely public pool which we had free access to as well, it even had a hot tub...and you were required to shower and wear a bathing cap before going in! I plan to return to this lovely town, only to stay for at least 7 - 10 days, sometime in the future. Next year I plan to fly into Venice and make my way to Cortina and compare! Have fun!

Thank you for your reply’s. Very helpful and much appreciated