Badia, South Tyrol, Italy Luxury Wellness Hotels | Mindful Running | Challenging Mountain Trails | Spa + Pampering | Gourmet Italian Food | Intention Setting
Be prepared for some of the most breathtaking trails you’ve ever run (due to their beauty and elevation) while being pampered in some of the most luxurious four-star hotels of Sud-Tyrol. You’ll run the trails of the Pale Mountains, as the Dolomites are known, a UNESCO World Heritage Site preserved for its stunning natural beauty with an amazing group of women who, like you, run because of how it makes them feel.
There’s something about running the mountains that feeds the soul. Perhaps it’s the grandeur of soaring peaks or the vastness of the landscape that can shift your perspective about things that are happening in your life. In a place like the Dolomites, those seemingly big problems become minuscule when compared to these vertical limestone mountains.
Every run will be completely different as we explore different natural parks within the Alta Badia region of the Dolomites. At times, we’ll use gondolas to access the valley’s upper elevations in order to maximize our rewards (and views!) while running sections of the area’s most famous trails, the Alta Via 1 and 2.
Throughout this retreat, we'll explore how the mindfulness practice of setting intentions can help you stay motivated to train for the next race or pursue the next life goal. If you find yourself bumping up against a wall of fatigue or apathy when you think about doing more than you are already, then this retreat is your chance to realign with your values around goal-setting and the role running plays your pursuit for excellence in all areas of life. We’re not just talking about running goals here, but any area of your life that is important to you and in which you want to bring your best self and highest energy.
Your retreat leader will guide you though mental and physical practices on and off the trail that will help you reconnect with what matters most to you and reignite your energy so you come home inspired and ready to pursue your next big project. This is a challenging retreat best suited to those with some trail-running experience.
This Retreat is Level III
This retreat is suitable for you if:
- Given the physical requirements listed, this retreat is for experienced trail runners only.
- This retreat is suitable for you if you are comfortable with a combination of trail running and hiking six days in a row for around four to five hours each day. Each time we are out on the trail it is inclusive of hiking sections of trail and stops for water breaks, snack breaks and photo opportunities.
- You are comfortable trail running and hiking on trails with loose dirt, rocks and some muddy sections.
- You have experience running on mountain trails.
- You are comfortable trail running at high elevations. You can expect to reach elevations above 9,000 feet above sea level on this retreat.
- You are physically able to hike long uphills and steep downhills.
- You are comfortable on narrow trails that are high up and at times exposed.
- You are game for running in the rain! Don’t worry about what to wear; we provide you with a comprehensive packing list.
- You have, or are willing to acquire before the retreat, a pair of trail running shoes.
Note: The total run distance for this retreat will be between approximately 42 and 50 miles. Each day’s run in this itinerary is represented by the time spent on the trail rather than miles run because the mileage covered will depend largely on your run pace. Faster runners will cover more mileage than slower runners on some days. The precise route and trails run may change due to changes to trail closures, weather conditions, guide recommendations and other safety considerations.
About Running in the Italian Dolomites
The Dolomites, also known as the “Pale Mountains,”, are a mountain range in the northern Italian Alps covering an area that is shared by the provinces of Belluno, Bolzano, Trento, Udine, and Pordenone. The Dolomite region is characterized by jagged peaks and ridges with scenic valleys nestled in between. The Dolomites is comprised of several natural parks and protected areas that collectively became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009 to officially recognize it as “among one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the world.”
Our runs take place generally between 5,000 feet and 9,000 in elevation on well-established trails. All runners–not only those coming from sea level–find it necessary to adjust their running pace to account for the elevation. We have accounted for this slower pace in our allotted run times, giving you plenty of time to run and hike at the speed that suits you best.
July is the warmest month of the year here, with daytime temperatures usually between 50 and 70 degrees. However, since we’re in the mountains, weather can change rapidly, so we’ll want to have light rain jackets with us in case of some precipitation.
Mindful Running Clinics
Learn how to run more mindfully to become a better runner. This includes natural running form clinics during which you'll learn about the Power Posture: use proper alignment to make gravity do more of the work. This reduces the muscular force involved with running so it feels easier and less strenuous on muscles and joints.
Focus on efficiency: Use natural running techniques to drastically improve efficiency. You'll practice changing stride length, cadence and tempo on various types of terrain. Then put the pieces together to achieve the ultimate trail running experience. Learn to cultivate the circumstances for flow to occur by being relaxed and mindful.
Dedicated Retreat Leader
Our highly trained retreat leaders provide the space and support for you to have a potentially transformational experience. As experts in mindful leadership, she provides valuable guidance on how to be mindful on and off the trail. Here's more about what you can expect from your retreat leader:
- Leads the opening meeting on Day 1, explaining what you can expect, the general flow of each day, what's expected of you, how she'll support you and all the other logistics you need.
- Works with our local staff, such as guides and drivers, to keep things safe, on schedule and running smoothly
- Leads mindful running clinics that teach you how to run more efficiently and with more flow and ease
- Manages the pace of each run so that you never feel rushed or get left behind
- Helps you get to scheduled events like yoga class, spa appointment and dinner reservations on time
- Facilitates sharing circles, creating a safe space for the group to reflect and share openly
- Provides emotional support if ever you need it
The Food
Experience exceptional dining!
We’ll dine daily on traditional Ladin/Italian dishes that showcases the Italian’s passion for fresh, delicious food.
Some local favorites include Tris di Canederli (three different flavors of farm-style dumplings), speck, a type of cured ham similar to prosciutto specific to South Tyrol, polenta, the “bread of the Dolomites,” and of course, apfelstrudel, an Italian-style apple strudel.
Most meals are included in your retreat package, and we handpick high-quality restaurants for unforgettable culinary experiences.
We cater to your special dietary needs. You'll have a chance to indicate your specific dietary requirements in the retreat participant intake form.
Even though menus are heavy on breads, pastas and meat, gluten free and vegetarians will find satisfying alternatives.
Please note that alcoholic drinks are excluded, and snacks and beverages outside of meals and trail runs are not included.
Daily Spa Access at Each Hotel
At each hotel we stay at throughout the retreat, you have access to the hotel spas, typically offering access to private relaxation areas, steam baths, infrared sauna, indoor or outdoor pool and hot tubs. Massages may be booked in advance or on site (when spots are available) and are highly recommended, as they can really help your recovery between our runs!
Hotel Corso, San Vigilio
The Chalet Corso Hotel features spacious. modern rooms furnished in the classic Sud-Tyrol alpine style. The Chalet Corso is situated right next to the forest, only a five-minute walk from the town center of San Vigilio di Marebbe. The spa area is located in an original wooden cabin in the garden and features a hot tub, a Finnish sauna, a steam bath and an infrared cabin. A special emphasis is put on the breakfast where you will find many specialties for the best start of your day. This cozy and casual atmosphere will make you forget easily all the hustle and bustle of everyday life and will help you to relax and to charge your batteries for body and soul.
Posta Zirm, Corvara
Location : Hotel Posta Zirm, Strada Col Alt, Corvara, Autonomous Province of Bolzano – South Tyrol, Italy
For 200 years, the Posta Zirm Hotel, owned by the Kostner family, has provided refuge to wayfarers and adventurers from around the globe. You can spend time recovering from your mountain adventures at the Wellness-Farm, a Feng-Shui sanctuary of well-being that will instantly relax you and restore your mind, body and soul balance. As your “home away from home,” the Posta Zirm's hotel rooms offer air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a minibar, and free wifi. Guests have access to room service and a concierge. In addition, Posta Zirm Hotel offers a pool and free breakfast, which will help make your Corvara in Badia trip additionally gratifying.
Hotel Tyrol, Selva
The Hotel Tryol is a Run Wild Retreats' staff favorite, and you'll soon discover why! This luxurious property is nestled among the Gardena Dolomites, surrounded by green pastures, dazzling mountain lakes and shady forests at the foot of the Passos Sella and Sassolungo. After its opening in 1996, the Hotel Tyrol set a new local standard in comfort, in aesthetics and in elegance. The hotel was built in the traditional Gardena style in which wood, being a natural and traditional building material and design element, plays a main role. The custom-made 50 rooms in elegant, cozy Gardena style were inspired by the fluctuations within the wonderful nature that surrounds us. Untreated wood is featured throughout its design. Elaborate floor plans, warm colors, luxurious fabrics are combined with modern, contemporary furnishings. The large windows and balconies bring the splendor of the landscape into the bright rooms. Each elegant room is elaborately decorated with a solid-wood entryway, and precious stones and mosaics highlight the spa area, giving each part of the hotel an earthy, cozy feel.
Run Wild Retreats Gift Bag
Items in your gift bag may vary from what's shown here based on availability.
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Review Packing List
ON THE TRAIL
- One pair of trail running shoes (Required). Road running shoes or minimalist shoes are not acceptable.
- Hydration pack with bladder for at least 1.5L of water (we recommend a vest pack rather than a waist pack) with pockets for carrying food and extra clothes and water (Required)
- Short-sleeve running shirts
- Warm long-sleeve shirts (such as wool or another lightly insulating but wicking material)
- Running shorts
- Running capris or light tights
- Lightweight, breathable running rain jacket that is easily packable (Required).
- Three to four pairs of running socks
- Running cap or visor
- Sunglasses
- Optional: collapsible, lightweight trekking poles
OFF THE TRAIL
- Day pack (~20 L)*
- Casual clothes (dining is informal)
- Shoes for casual wear
- Warm jacket for cool evenings
- Bathing suit
- Journal
- Small, lightweight camera (or phone)
- Plug adapter (if traveling outside North America) for electronic devices
- Ear plugs (for sleeping)
- Sleeping attire suitable for shared sleeping quarters if sharing a room
- Other personal items/apparel and toiletries (shampoo, soap, conditioner, lotion, sunscreen, etc).
*You’ll use this day pack for extra clothing, snacks and personal items (not for running). You’ll have access to it while traveling in the van, when large luggage is not accessible. For ease of transport between hotels, please limit your luggage to one carry-on (backpack as described above is recommended) and one wheeled suitcase.
💡Note: Trail running shoes and a hydration pack are required items.
Mindful Inspiration Running Kit
The Mindful Running Inspiration Kit is filled with custom items that will support and inspire you to consistently practice your healthy running habits.
Get inspired to continue your practice every time you reach for your mindful running gear, and take to the streets and trails knowing you are feeding your soul and fueling your good health in the long run.
Your Mindful Running Inspiration Kit Includes:
- “I Run Mindfully” women's technical run t-shirt
- Run Intention Bracelet
- 27-oz Stainless Steel Klean Kanteen bottle with sport cap
- “I Run Mindfully” vinyl stickers (pack of 2)
- Mindful Running Training Log
- “Run Mindfully” Intention Bracelet
Share and celebrate the joy of maintaining a daily running practice, while reminding you that no matter where you take your shoes — from Moab to the Mediterranean — you’re part of a community of healthy runners who support you on this path. Shipping is FREE!
Transformational Travel Kit
The Transformational Travel Kit contains hand-selected items to support you in having a meaningful travel experience. Featuring the book, "Transformational Travel Journal: Your guide to creating a life-changing journey" by Eric Rupp, this kit also contains:
* 27-ounce stainless steel water bottle with sport cap, made by Klean Kanteen exclusively for Run Wild Retreats
* Embossed faux-leather luggage tag
*Two high-quality vinyl stickers "I Run Mindfully"
Shipping is FREE!
2-Night Venice Extension, July 6-8, 2023 - (1 person)
Register by 30 Apr 2023
Location : Venice, Italy
Rather than starting your retreat feeling jetlagged and tired, start the retreat feeling refreshed and well rested!
Extend your time in Italy with a 2-Night Pre-Retreat Extension in Venice, staying at the luxury Splendid Hotel, and exploring the booming culinary scene with a local guide.
Day 1
Arrive at Venice’s Marco Polo Airport, where you will be met by a local representative to transfer you to your hotel. Just a few steps away from Venice’s greatest sights, The Splendid Hotel is a charming 4-star hotel as elegant as Venice itself. Your afternoon is at leisure to wander the nearby streets and canals, or relax at the hotel’s rooftop lounge with breathtaking views overlooking the city.
Overnight at the Splendid Hotel
Day 2
After enjoying a complimentary breakfast at the hotel, your morning is free to explore this unique city on your own. In the mid-afternoon, a local guide will meet you at your hotel for a guided walking tour of the city to sample and discover some of the culinary specialties Venice has to offer. It is a long established Venetian tradition to take a break at intervals during the day, when the locals head to a local wine bar called bacaro, where they serve un’ombra (a small glass of wine) alongside a variety of delicious cicchetti, the Venetian version of Spanish tapas. Your guide will accompany you to several of these local haunts, where you will sample the local wine (or ‘spritz’) accompanied by an endless choice of small bites.
Breakfast and food tour included
Overnight at the Splendid Hotel
Day 3
Enjoy a morning at leisure before checking out of your hotel. Transfer back to the airport via a private water taxi, to meet your Retreat Leader for your Italian Dolomites Trail Running + Wellness Retreat.
* Please note that there is not a Run Wild Retreats representative on site during the extension, but our retreat travel specialists are available to you via phone and email.
Your package includes:
- 2-nights accommodation at Hotel Splendid (or similar)
- Breakfast Daily
- Private transport by motor boat, including 2 pieces of Luggage
- Airport meet and greet with an English Speaking Guide
- Entrance Fees to all sites and museums
- 3-hour walking food tour in Venice w/ local guide
- Complimentary Bottled Water
- 24-Hour Emergency Contact
Superior Room at the Hotel Splendid
Superior Italian Marble Bathroom at the Hotel Splendid
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*Guests who are not traveling with a roommate should book a private package. Friends traveling together can each either book a private or shared package
*Price is per person
2-Night Venice Extension, July 6-8, 2023 - (2 people)
Register by 30 Apr 2023
Location : Venice, Italy
Rather than starting your retreat feeling jetlagged and tired, start the retreat feeling refreshed and well rested!
Extend your time in Italy with a 2-Night Pre-Retreat Extension in Venice, staying at the luxury Splendid Hotel, and exploring the booming culinary scene with a local guide.
Day 1
Arrive at Venice’s Marco Polo Airport, where you will be met by a local representative to transfer you to your hotel. Just a few steps away from Venice’s greatest sights, The Splendid Hotel is a charming 4-star hotel as elegant as Venice itself. Your afternoon is at leisure to wander the nearby streets and canals, or relax at the hotel’s rooftop lounge with breathtaking views overlooking the city.
Overnight at the Splendid Hotel
Day 2
After enjoying a complimentary breakfast at the hotel, your morning is free to explore this unique city on your own. In the mid-afternoon, a local guide will meet you at your hotel for a guided walking tour of the city to sample and discover some of the culinary specialties Venice has to offer. It is a long established Venetian tradition to take a break at intervals during the day, when the locals head to a local wine bar called bacaro, where they serve un’ombra (a small glass of wine) alongside a variety of delicious cicchetti, the Venetian version of Spanish tapas. Your guide will accompany you to several of these local haunts, where you will sample the local wine (or ‘spritz’) accompanied by an endless choice of small bites.
Breakfast and food tour included
Overnight at the Splendid Hotel
Day 3
Enjoy a morning at leisure before checking out of your hotel. Transfer back to the airport via a private water taxi, to meet your Retreat Leader for your Italian Dolomites Trail Running + Wellness Retreat.
* Please note that there is not a Run Wild Retreats representative on site during the extension, but our retreat travel specialists are available to you via phone and email.
Your package includes:
- 2-nights accommodation at Hotel Splendid (or similar)
- Breakfast Daily
- Private transport by motor boat, including 2 pieces of Luggage
- Airport meet and greet with an English Speaking Guide
- Entrance Fees to all sites and museums
- 3-hour walking food tour in Venice w/ local guide
- Complimentary Bottled Water
- 24-Hour Emergency Contact
Superior Room at the Hotel Splendid
Superior Italian Marble Bathroom at the Hotel Splendid
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Guests who are not traveling with a roommate should book a private package. Friends traveling together can each either book a private or shared package
*Price is per person
