Ski resorts
Val Gardena: skiing in the heart of the Dolomites
The Sellaronda around the Sella massif, the Saslong World Cup run and villages with Ladin culture and a woodcarving tradition. This is Val Gardena, and the hotels in the heart of the Dolomites.
Val Gardena lies in South Tyrol, in the heart of the Dolomites, and is one of the most beautiful valleys in the Alps. Steep, pale peaks rise above the villages of Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva, and in the evening the mountains glow pink and orange. Ladin, one of Europe’s oldest languages, is spoken here, and the woodcarving tradition lives on in the workshops of Ortisei.
For skiers, Val Gardena is known for the Sellaronda, the classic circuit around the Sella massif, and for the Saslong, one of the best-known downhill runs on the World Cup circuit.
The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You choose your own dates and room on the hotel page.
Three villages in the valley
Ortisei is the largest village, with a lively pedestrian street, shops and woodcarving workshops. Santa Cristina sits in the middle of the valley, and Selva lies furthest in, closest to the Sella massif. Each has its own charm, and all are linked by lifts and buses.
The Sellaronda
The Sellaronda is a classic ski circuit around the Sella massif, through four Dolomite valleys. It can be skied in either direction in a day and offers some of the most spectacular views in the Alps. It suits skiers comfortable on red runs.
The Saslong: the World Cup run
The Saslong in Val Gardena is one of the best-known downhill courses on the World Cup circuit, with races held here every winter. It is famous for its jumps and bumps, and a special experience for those brave enough to ski it.
A day in Val Gardena
The morning starts with breakfast and a view of the Sassolungo, before you take the lift up towards the Sella massif. The day can be spent on the Sellaronda, with lunch in a hut high up in one of the neighbouring valleys.
In the afternoon you ski back to Val Gardena as the sun colours the peaks, ending the day with a spa and a good dinner.
Alpe di Siusi and Seceda
Above Val Gardena lie the Alpe di Siusi, considered Europe’s largest high-alpine meadow, and the Seceda, with its dramatic, tilted ridges. Both offer fantastic views and are worth a visit even for non-skiers.
When is the best time to visit Val Gardena?
The season usually runs from December to April. January and February often bring cold, clear days, while March offers plenty of sunshine. Christmas week and half term are popular, so book early.
Skiing with children in Val Gardena
Val Gardena has ski schools, children’s areas and plenty of gentle runs, especially on the Alpe di Siusi. The villages are safe and pleasant, with activities such as sledging and winter walks.
Food and evenings in Val Gardena
South Tyrolean cooking blends Italian and Tyrolean traditions, with dishes such as canederli, speck and strudel. Restaurants in Ortisei and Selva range from rustic huts to gourmet kitchens, and South Tyrolean wines are an experience in themselves.
Ladin culture and woodcarving
Val Gardena is one of the valleys where Ladin is still spoken, and its culture shapes the villages. Ortisei is famous for its woodcarving tradition, and in the workshops you can watch figures and sculptures take shape.
Tips before you book
Buy the Dolomiti Superski pass if you want to ski the Sellaronda and explore neighbouring valleys. Book early for Christmas and half term, and choose a hotel near the lifts or with a ski bus.
Getting to Val Gardena
The nearest airports are Bolzano, Innsbruck and Verona. From there you drive or take a transfer into the valley. Buses also run from Bolzano.
Where to stay in Val Gardena
Val Gardena has some of the best-known hotels in the Dolomites. Here are three we would happily choose.
ADLER Dolomiti: luxury in Ortisei
A luxury hotel with ski-in/ski-out access and a free ski bus, in Ortisei.
Book your stay: See rooms at ADLER Dolomiti
Alpenroyal Grand Hotel: elegance in Selva
A luxury hotel with a free ski bus, close to the Dolomites.
Book your stay: See rooms at Alpenroyal Grand Hotel
Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa: spa and tradition
A luxury hotel with a spa and a free ski bus.
Book your stay: See rooms at Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa
Want to compare? See all our ski resorts or read about skiing in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Frequently asked questions about skiing in Val Gardena
Where should I stay in Val Gardena?
ADLER Dolomiti in Ortisei, Alpenroyal Grand Hotel in Selva and Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa are all luxury hotels with a free ski bus.
What is the Sellaronda?
The Sellaronda is a classic ski circuit around the Sella massif, through four Dolomite valleys, which can be skied in a day.
What is the Saslong?
The Saslong is the downhill course in Val Gardena, where World Cup races are held every winter.
How do you get to Val Gardena?
Fly to Bolzano, Innsbruck or Verona and drive or take a transfer into the valley.