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Why ski in The Dolomites Ski Area

For those who have never seen these extraordinarily beautiful mountains before – prepare to be utterly enchanted. The Dolomites may be part of the Alps, but these towering, rugged, largely limestone monoliths that dominate the upper reaches of Trentino, Südtirol, Belluno and Veneto have the appearance of a completely different mountain range.

The extraordinary thing about them is that much of the rocky terrain that soars skywards, sometimes almost vertically (don’t worry, you normally ski round their bases, not down their sheer walls!) was, eons ago, under the sea: hence the limestone. Thanks to the reddish-purple rock of large feldspar crystals embedded in them, reflected sunlight at both first light and dusk produces a variety of shades of pink and flaming red. In Ladin – the Latin-Romansch language still very much used in some Dolomite valleys  - the word for this magical effect is enrosadira.

Fundamentally the great ski resorts of the Dolomites – served by a vast array of lifts dominated by the Dolomiti Superski lift company – provide delightful skiing, plenty of sunshine and food that combines the best of Italian, South Tyrolean and Ladin cultures.

There’s steep skiing if you want it (Arabba has plenty - as does Selva Gardena and Cortina), but by and large the runs are ideal for intermediates and families. If you’ve not done it before and like the idea of getting some ski miles under your belt, you’ll be keen to try the celebrated Sellaronda circular tour.

You can start anywhere on the circuit and ski it in either direction. At the centre are the gigantic, craggy peaks of the Gruppo Sella. The 25 mile tour (16 miles of actual skiing) can be achieved fairly easily in a day.

The tour negotiates four mountain passes: Pordoi, Sella, Gardena and Campolongo as you cruise through the picturesque towns and villages of Corvara & Colfosco, San Cassiano, and the wooded slopes of Canazei. And make sure you experience the La Longia, also known as the James Bond ski run in nearby St Christina which runs down to Ortisei

The Best of The Dolomites Ski Area

Resorts in The Dolomites Ski Area

Ski & snowboarding information

Best for

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Cross-country

Snowboard

Skiing in the Dolomites offers breathtaking alpine views, with a vast network of well-maintained slopes suitable for all levels of skiers. The region combines world-class ski facilities with a rich cultural experience, including unique mountain cuisine and charming alpine villages.

Runs

Blue: 458km
Red: 587km
Black: 155km

Additional Ski Details

Ski area:
1220km
Lift Ski Lockers:
No

Recommended Accommodation in The Dolomites

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Things to do in The Dolomites

Perfect for couples and groups of friends, spend one evening of your holiday tasting some of the best wines in the region. 

Snow shoeing is a great alternative to skiing if you'd like to explore what the local mountain trails have to offer. Discover the beauty of the pristine scenery and hike through untouched snowy forests in the Arabba area.

The Pranives Arena is home of the Gherdeina Ice Hockey Club, and there are lots of games on throughout the winter with a fantastic atmosphere. Many of the locals show up to enthusiastically support their team during home games - even more so during the playoffs at the end of the season.

The Hidden Valley is a must-do during your ski holiday in Selva, ski down the 7km run through the charming Fanes valley between jagged mountain faces and ice falls down towards Sas Dlacia, from here you'll be towed along by horses to the Armentarola ski lift.

Ski from hut to hut and sample some of the delicious dishes created by local chefs and learn about the stories behind them. Enquire with your representative or the tourist information for further details.

The Canzei Fun Park offers the exciting and exhilarating snow tubing for those who are looking for a little fun off the piste. Located in front of the Dòlaondes Aquatic Centre, the park has a 400m long slope where kids can enjoy endless fun in snow tubes.

The Olympic Ice Stadium in Cortina d'Ampezzo is a historic and versatile venue, originally built between 1952 and 1954.

It was inaugurated on October 26, 1955, and played a significant role in the 1956 Winter Olympics, hosting the opening and closing ceremonies, figure skating events, and select ice hockey games.

Located just a few minutes' walk from the centre of Cortina, the stadium is accessible year-round and offers a variety of activities for visitors.

Fat biking in Cortina d'Ampezzo offers a unique and thrilling way to explore the snowy landscapes of the Dolomites. This activity is perfect for adventure enthusiasts looking to experience the mountains in a new way.

Winter hiking in Corvara and Colfosco offers a serene and picturesque experience in the heart of the Dolomites. This activity is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The gentle hike to the Pisciadú waterfalls is a popular route, winding through snow-covered meadows and silent woods at the foot of the majestic peaks Sella, Cir, and Sassongher. The waterfalls form spectacular ice falls in winter.

The circular route between Corvara and Colfosco is ideal for snowshoeing, offering stunning views of the north face of the Sella massif. The trail includes ascents through woods and descents alongside ski slope.

The ice skating rink on the frozen pond in Conca Verde is a popular spot, open during the winter months when the ice forms naturally. Weekly courses and individual lessons are available for both children and adults, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

The rink is open daily from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM to 8:00 PM, weather permitting.

Step off the beaten track and into a winter wonderland with snowshoeing in La Villa. There are various peaceful trails through snowy forests, meadows, and traditional Ladin farms. From easy valley walks to more demanding routes with breath taking views of the Santa Croce and Lavarella peaks, it's a magical escape from the bustle of the slopes.

Local guides offer snowshoe walking tours, ensuring participants can enjoy the best routes safely and learn about the local flora and fauna.

FAQ and Travel Information