Marmolada is a ski resort in the northeast of Italy, located in the Dolomites, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is part of one of the largest ski areas in the world: “Dolomiti Superski”. With its top Punta Penia which culminates at 3342 meters altitude, the Marmolada is called “Queen of the Dolomites”.

It stands majestically in the mountains and offers incredible views. The punta Penia is also accessible by cable car. The resort Marmolada offers 63 kilometers of perfectly groomed slopes and lifts performance from late November to April. Its altitude guarantees ideal climatic conditions for excellent snow.

Bellunese, the longest ski run of the Dolomites.

The snow cover is reliable thanks to the artificial snow produced by the ski resort. The Marmolada is also known for the “Bellunese”: this is the longest ski run of the Dolomites, it is more than 12 kilometers to give skiers even more intense sensations. The resort also offers other winter sports such as cross country skiing, snowshoeing, winter hiking, climbing … A multitude of activities for an unforgettable holiday.

In addition to beautiful scenery, the Marmolada is a cultural place full of history. Indeed, it houses the Museum of the Great War of 1915-1918 where one can explore the tunnels and trenches of war. The Marmolada is a unique and ideal place for a holiday in the snow with family or friends.

Skiing in Marmolada: the highlights of the resort considered “The Queen of the Dolomites”

Located between Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige, Marmolada stands as the roof of the Dolomites at 3,343 meters above sea level.

Its glacier is one of the few that still allows skiing on natural snow for much of the year, guaranteeing exceptional quality even in spring.

The ski area is directly connected to Dolomiti Superski, offering access to more than 1,200 km of interconnected slopes.

But beyond the numbers, Marmolada represents a unique experience: skiing on a glacier with views of the most iconic peaks in the Eastern Alps.

The Marmolada glacier: an incomparable experience

From the village of Malga Ciapela, at 1,450 meters, a system of three panoramic cable cars takes you to the summit of Punta Rocca, at 3,265 meters.

The ascent itself is an adventure: each section offers an increasingly expansive view of the Dolomite peaks, until you reach the highest point, where a truly breathtaking landscape of snow and rock opens up before you.

From there, the La Bellunese slope, one of the most legendary in Italy, begins.

With a length of 12 km and a vertical drop of 1,800 meters, it is the longest slope in the Dolomites, descending from the glacier to the bottom of the valley in a fluid, panoramic, and technical route.

Technical skiing and high-quality snow

La Marmolada is a paradise for advanced skiers. The glacier terrain requires good technique, but rewards you with dry, compact, and stable snow, thanks to the altitude and low temperatures. Thanks to its northern orientation and altitude of over 3,000 meters, the glacier maintains optimal conditions throughout the season, from November to May. In addition, the ski area is part of the Dolomiti Superski network, allowing easy connections to Arabba, Val di Fassa, and the Sella Ronda.

Landscape, history, and excitement

Marmolada is not only a sporting destination: it is also a place steeped in memory and symbolism. During the First World War, its slopes were the scene of clashes between Austro-Hungarian and Italian troops, who even dug tunnels in the glacier. Today, you can visit the Museum of the Great War at Punta Serauta, at 2,950 meters, considered the highest museum in Europe.

The visit combines history, nature, and excitement, offering a unique perspective on the past and present of these mountains.

A unique panoramic view of the Dolomites

From the summit of Marmolada, the view is simply majestic: the Sella, Civetta, Pelmo, Tofana, Antelao… On clear days, the view even reaches the Austrian Alps and the plains of Veneto. For this reason, many visitors take the cable car even if they don’t ski, just to enjoy the view from the Punta Rocca viewpoint and its small chapel carved into the rock.

Activities and services

The Malga Ciapela area offers a ski school, equipment rental, restaurants, and panoramic mountain huts. The Rifugio Serauta and the Rifugio Pian dei Fiacconi are must-see stops for a typical lunch with views of the glacier. There are also marked snowshoe and winter hiking trails, perfect for those seeking a more peaceful experience.

Environmental commitment

The Marmolada is a symbol of the effects of climate change, and local authorities are actively working to preserve it. Projects are underway for glaciological monitoring, sustainable water management, and environmental education to raise awareness about the fragility of the ecosystem.

Tips from the I Love Ski Community for skiing in Marmolada

Get up early to enjoy the Bellunese: The early hours of the day offer the best snow and fewer crowds.

Equip yourself for high mountains: The weather changes quickly: wear technical clothing, goggles, and strong sun protection.

Visit the Great War Museum: A short but moving tour that adds historical value to the skiing experience.

Don’t miss the Punta Rocca viewpoint: Ideal for panoramic photographs, especially at sunset.

Take advantage of the connection to Arabba: From Malga Ciapela you can link up with the Sella Ronda circuit, one of the most beautiful in Europe.