Italy
Thanks to its connection with Dolomiti Superski, Val Gardena forms part of the world’s largest ski areas. However, to reduce this destination to a mere matter of kilometres of slopes would be a gross oversimplification.
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, amongst some of the most beautiful and spectacular mountains in Europe, Val Gardena is one of those places capable of captivating both the skier seeking thrilling descents and the traveller wishing to discover authentic Alpine culture. Here, Ladin tradition, South Tyrolean cuisine, World Cup competitions and a network of slopes that allow you to explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Alps all come together.
For many skiing enthusiasts, Val Gardena embodies the very essence of the Dolomites.
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A unique valley in the heart of the Dolomites
Val Gardena —known as Gröden in German and Gherdëina in Ladin— is located in the province of Bolzano, in the Italian South Tyrol. The valley stretches for around 25 kilometres and comprises three main towns: Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena.
The location is simply unbeatable. The valley is surrounded by some of the most iconic massifs in the Dolomites: the Sassolungo, the Sella Group, Seceda, the Odle and the Sciliar. It is no coincidence that this region has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The first impression upon arrival is usually the same for all visitors: the feeling of standing before a landscape of almost unreal proportions. The dolomite rock spires seem to rise vertically from the woods and meadows, creating a scene that changes constantly with the light of day.
In winter, these mountains are transformed into a giant playground for snow sports enthusiasts.
Three villages, each with its own character
One of the most interesting things about Val Gardena is that it doesn’t operate like a conventional resort. In fact, it consists of three villages that are perfectly connected to one another, each with its own distinct identity.
Ortisei: Alpine elegance and tradition
Ortisei is the gateway to the valley and probably the town with the most urban charm. Its pedestrianised streets, boutiques, cafés and historic hotels give it an atmosphere quite different from that of other Alpine destinations.
It is also the valley’s main cultural hub. Here, the tradition of woodcarving remains very much alive, and numerous galleries showcase the work of artisans who keep this centuries-old craft alive.
For many families, Ortisei is the ideal base for a winter holiday thanks to its peaceful atmosphere and easy access to Seceda and Alpe di Siusi.
Santa Cristina: the perfect balance
Located in the heart of the valley, Santa Cristina combines tranquillity with a strategic location.
From here, it’s easy to access both the local slopes and the links to the Sellaronda. It’s also one of the best places for those looking for a slightly more relaxed experience without sacrificing proximity to the main ski lifts.
Selva di Val Gardena: the sporting heart
Selva is the highest village and the one most geared towards skiing.
From here, you have direct access to the Sellaronda circuit and some of the most iconic sections of the ski area.
For many experienced skiers, Selva is the ideal base from which to explore the Dolomites on skis.
Skiing in Val Gardena
To talk about Val Gardena is to talk about one of Europe’s top ski destinations.
The resort boasts 175 kilometres of its own slopes and direct access to the vast Dolomiti Superski area.
“Val Gardena offers access to 500 km of downhill ski runs, dozens of state-of-the-art ski lifts, 30 km of winter hiking trails and 115 km of cross-country ski trails”
This allows visitors to enjoy not only the local area but also links to Alta Badia, Arabba, Val di Fassa, Alpe di Siusi and other world-renowned ski areas.
The quality of the facilities is one of its strong points. The ski lifts are modern, fast and designed to minimise waiting times even during the busiest periods.
The orientation of many of the slopes and the advanced snowmaking system ensure excellent conditions for much of the season.
The Sellaronda: an unmissable experience
Few ski routes enjoy the international reputation of the Sellaronda.
This circular route completely circles the Sella massif, passing through four Ladin valleys and several interconnected ski areas. If you’re skiing with the family, you have two options depending on the ability of the youngest members of the group. You can leave them in good hands at one of the prestigious ski schools, or take them with you and plan short circuits on green and blue runs whenever possible.
Completing the entire circuit is an experience that goes far beyond simply clocking up the miles. Along the route, the landscape changes constantly, offering views of some of the most spectacular scenery in the Dolomites.
From Val Gardena, and particularly from Selva, access to the Sellaronda is particularly easy. For many visitors, completing this route is one of the most memorable moments of their holiday.
The most iconic tracks
For skiers looking to make the most of the ski area, the Val Gardena ski resort offers everything from runs that are pure adrenaline and living history of the World Cup, to endless scenic routes that wind through natural gorges and unspoilt landscapes. Below, we highlight the areas and runs we like best and consider the most iconic in the region, alongside the ultimate challenge for snow lovers: the Legendary 8.
Saslong
To speak of Val Gardena is to speak of the Saslong. Every year, this run hosts the FIS World Cup Downhill and Super-G events and is one of the best-known on the international circuit. The run’s reputation was firmly established following the 1970 World Ski Championships. Since then, it has been a direct witness to over a century of skiing tradition in this valley of the Dolomites.
Although the section open to the public is perfectly skiable for a good intermediate-advanced level, skiing it allows you to imagine the speed and spectacle offered by the world’s best racers. The Saslong run is officially listed as one of the Legendary 8 of Val Gardena. This select group of eight runs comprises a total of 36 kilometres of the most beautiful, varied and perfectly groomed courses
The longia
If there is one run that truly captures the spirit of Val Gardena, it is probably La Longia. The longest run in South Tyrol. Stretching over ten kilometres, it connects Seceda with Ortisei, winding through forests, gorges and spectacular scenery. It is not a difficult run, but it is certainly one of the most beautiful in the Italian Alps. It passes through spectacular scenery, including a natural gorge, views of a frozen waterfall and the historic, renovated Costamula farm.
Ciampino
This area offers some of the most sought-after runs for expert skiers. It is home to the famous Ciampinoi No. 3 run, officially recognised within the The Legendary 8 circuit as “the steepest slope” (the steepest slope) in the entire region. The views towards the Sassolungo make every descent an extraordinary visual experience. From this sector, you can enjoy a privileged view of the imposing Sassolungo massif, the Cinquedita and the Marmolada. Furthermore, it serves as a key point within the legendary Sellaronda circuit and the Culturonda route, facilitating memorable descents to historic places such as Castel Gardena.
Las Legendary 8
The most passionate enthusiasts might want to take on the challenge of completing the Legendary 8. These are eight runs selected by the resort itself as the most representative of Val Gardena. Each one has its own unique characteristics and offers the chance to discover different aspects of the ski area: from stunning panoramic views to historic runs linked to international competitions.
Completing all eight during a single visit has become a real personal challenge for many visitors.
Below, we list the eight stages that make up this personal challenge, along with their key features:
- Saslong: Renowned as the quintessential “legendary” slope.
- Cir: Traditionally known as the “women’s slope”.
- Ciampinoi No. 3: Recognised as the resort’s steepest slope.
- Bravo: Dubbed “the romantic slope”.
- Falk: With the honour of being the “first” slope.
- Gardenissima: Described as ‘the sensational slope’.
- La Longia: Noted for being the longest slope.
- Pilat: Known as the “new” slope, it opened in the winter of 2022.
Challenge details: Skiers who take up the challenge have access to a dedicated mobile app. Using a smartphone with NFC technology, they can collect points as they complete the runs to receive a prize upon completing the challenge.
State-of-the-art ski lifts and refurbished facilities in Val Gardena
Val Gardena is establishing itself as a global leader in winter sports thanks to its ongoing investment in state-of-the-art facilities and the modernisation of its key infrastructure.
The following are among the resort’s most recent renovations and new features:
Upgrades to the legendary Ciampinoi No. 3 run: Over the summer, significant improvements were made to the final section of the “Ciampinoi” run. It now continues in a straight line westwards, towards the Ciampinoi Valley station. This new section is significantly wider and is perfectly designed as a competition course for the special disciplines of the 2031 Alpine World Ski Championships. Furthermore, looking ahead to the coming years, plans are in place to build a bridge that will serve specifically as the competition finish area.
The ultra-modern Resciesa cable car: This state-of-the-art cable car provides a direct and comfortable link between the village of Ortisei and Alpe Resciesa (at an altitude of 2,200 metres) in just eight minutes. It is the key access point for both the Puez-Odle Nature Park and the longest toboggan run in the Dolomites.
The “ZIPLine Monte Pana” zip line: For adrenaline junkies (and the brave), this spectacular zip line has been added and can be enjoyed in both winter and summer. It is an innovative facility accessed from the top station of the Mont de Sëura chairlift. It features a unique technological system that allows you to glide along a 1,500-metre-long course at a maximum height of 100 metres above the ground, reaching speeds of around 100 km/h.
Val Gardena is much more than just downhill skiing
Although skiing takes centre stage, Val Gardena offers a wide range of other activities. Cross-country skiing enthusiasts have access to over a hundred kilometres of trails. Monte Pana is particularly popular for the quality of its trails and its magnificent views.
Snowshoe hikes allow you to discover much quieter spots away from the busier areas.
There are also signposted winter trails, sleigh rides and evening activities that allow you to see the Dolomites from a completely different perspective.
A unique Alpine culture: the Ladin world
One of Val Gardena’s greatest treasures is its cultural identity. Unlike many Alpine destinations that have evolved into more uniform tourist destinations, here Ladin culture remains an integral part of everyday life.
“One of the most unique cultural regions in the Alps.”
The valley’s inhabitants have preserved their language, their traditions and much of their historical heritage. Signs are usually written in Ladin, Italian and German, reminding visitors that they are in one of the most unique cultural regions of the Alps.
The tradition of woodcarving
Woodcraft is inextricably linked to the history of Val Gardena. For centuries, local craftsmen have been creating religious sculptures, decorative figures and works of art that are now exported all over the world.
As you wander through the villages, it’s easy to come across workshops, galleries and small specialist shops that keep this tradition alive.
Cuisine between the Alps and the Mediterranean
The local cuisine perfectly reflects South Tyrol’s geographical location. Alpine flavours blend with Italian influences to create a cuisine with a distinctive character.
During a day’s skiing, it’s almost a must to stop off at one of the many mountain huts dotted around the ski area. Specialities such as speck, canederli, mountain cheeses and traditional desserts are an essential part of the experience.
What’s more, several award-winning restaurants prove that Val Gardena’s culinary scene goes far beyond traditional mountain hut fare.
The 2031 World Cup and Alpine Skiing World Championships
Val Gardena holds a special place in the history of alpine skiing. Every December, the eyes of the skiing world turn to the Saslong, the regular venue for some of the most spectacular races on the international calendar.
For example, on 18 December 2025, Switzerland’s Marco Odermatt took the top spot on the podium. This victory was particularly special, as it marked his 50th World Cup win and took place during the 1,000th downhill race in the competition’s history.
As we’ve already mentioned, Val Gardena is all about competition. The selection of Val Gardena as the host venue for the 2031 Alpine World Ski Championships confirms the destination’s importance on the international stage.
Why go skiing in Val Gardena?
There are resorts with more kilometres of slopes. There are resorts at higher altitudes. There are resorts that receive more media attention.
“Val Gardena is one of the most comprehensive Alpine experiences to be had in Europe.”
However, few manage to bring together so many unique features in one place: UNESCO World Heritage landscapes, a vibrant and authentic culture, villages with their own distinct character, world-class cuisine, a sporting tradition, and direct access to one of the most spectacular ski areas on the planet.
That is why, for many enthusiasts, Val Gardena is not just a ski resort.
Tips from the I Love Ski community for skiing in Val Gardena
Get up early to enjoy Dantercepies
The first runs of the day from Dantercepies usually offer some of the best snow conditions and spectacular views over the Sella Group. It’s also an ideal way to join the Sellaronda before the crowds build up.
Set aside a whole morning for La Longia
Don’t rush down it. Its 10-plus kilometres wind through forests, gorges and some of the most beautiful scenery in the Dolomites. It’s one of those runs that’s well worth tackling several times during your stay.
Try at least one of the Legendary 8
Val Gardena has selected eight iconic runs that capture the essence of the resort. Completing them all is a fun challenge that allows you to discover some of the most spectacular spots in the ski area.
Don’t just do the Sellaronda
Many visitors spend the whole week on the famous circuit around the Sella Group. Our advice is to set aside a day or two to explore the Seceda, Ciampinoi and Alpe di Siusi areas at a leisurely pace, where some of the valley’s best slopes are to be found.
Stop off for a bite to eat at the Comici mountain hut
Situated at the foot of Sassolungo, it is one of the best-known mountain huts in the Dolomites. Its panoramic terrace and excellent cuisine make it a must-visit for many skiers.
If you’re travelling in December, why not go to a World Cup match?
Watching the world’s top speed specialists race down the Saslong helps you understand why this run is one of the most legendary on the international circuit.
Spend an afternoon exploring Ortisei
Beyond the skiing, Ortisei is probably the village with the most character in Val Gardena. Its pedestrianised streets, woodcarving workshops and alpine atmosphere are well worth a leisurely visit.
If you’re travelling with your family, explore Alpe di Siusi
The wide, sunny slopes, gentle gradients and open landscapes make this area one of the best places to learn and enjoy yourself with the family.
Our favourite spot in Val Gardena
The Seceda Balcony at Sunset: If we had to choose a single place capable of making time stand still and encapsulating all the magic of the Dolomites, it would undoubtedly be the summit of Seceda (2,519 m) at dusk. Whilst most visitors take the cable car up from Ortisei during the middle of the day, we recommend (at your own risk) staying at the summit once the lifts have closed and the hustle and bustle has died down.
It is at this moment that the Enrosadira phenomenon occurs: the last rays of the sun bathe the colossal spires of the Odle Group, tinging the limestone with a vibrant pink and magical golden hues. From this vantage point, the Earth’s fascinating history is clearly visible. To the north, the Odle spires pierce the sky like stone blades emerging from an ancient coral ocean; to the south, the slopes give way to endless, gentle alpine meadows dotted with traditional wooden huts. It is not just a view, it is a truly spectacular vantage point. From the cross at the summit, the view stretches out towards the imposing Sella massif, the iconic Sassolungo and the vastness of the Alpe di Siusi. But as well as being a photographer’s paradise, Seceda is the starting point of La Longia, which at 10.5 km is the longest run in South Tyrol. Gliding down it back to the valley, passing through canyons and frozen waterfalls, is the perfect way to end any day.
Pro Tip: If you visit in winter, make the most of the resort’s Special Alpine Nights. Few experiences compare to snowshoeing under a starry sky in this area, followed by a traditional dinner with South Tyrolean wine in a cosy mountain hut such as the Malga Pieralongia or the Odles hut.
Find out everything you need to know to plan your holiday in Val Gardena – Dolomites
