Welcome to Val Gardena!
Amid the most beautiful mountains in the world lies Val Gardena, which beckons with spectacular panoramas, incomparable adventures and ancient heritage.
January 17, 2025
Once, there was nothing but water around the Puez-Odle Nature Park, the striking mountain massifs of the Geisler group, the Cirspitzen, the Sella massif and the unmistakable Langkofel tower. In fact, the Dolomites have changed quite a bit geologically over the eons. Deep sea trenches have become valleys, former atolls have become peaks – the fascinating history of the area shows how changeable nature is. Today, the Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a year-round haven for mountain enthusiasts, connoisseurs and those seeking peace and quiet. From Val Gardena, with the villages of Ortisei (1236 m above sea level), St. Cristina (1428 m above sea level) and Selva Gardena (1563 m above sea level), the view is particularly spectacular.
© provided
In the winter months, when the mountains are covered in white, the area becomes a hotspot for snow fans – 500 connected kilometers of slopes and 115 kilometers of cross-country ski trails as well as a good network of hiking trails, offer a unique balance of activities in Val Gardena. Whether on foot, on skis, snowshoes or a sled, young and old can immerse themselves in an absolute snow paradise, for example on the legendary Sellaronda or the infamous Saslong World Cup slope. On average, there are 7000 square meters of nature for every guest, waiting to be enjoyed on one of the 300 days of sunshine Val Gardena gets per year.
However, Val Gardena is not just famous for its panoramic views and activities: It is also considered the cradle of South Tyrolean art and culture. The Ladin population is multilingual, creative, traditional and yet modern. Above all, wood carving, which has been one of the most important local industries since the 17th century, is still practiced here. Festivals and events have also always been very important here - such as the "Special Nights", which go from December to April 2025 and include moonlight cross-country skiing, night tobogganing and romantic evenings by candlelight.
Web: valgardena.it
This article appeared in the Falstaff TRAVEL issue Winter 2024/25.