"Selva di Val Gardena is without doubt my favourite ski resort. Quite simply, it has it all. An enormous ski area, the best mountain scenery in the world, unrivalled hospitality and a warm heart. You won’t be disappointed."
Val Gardena Ski Holidays
This is a spectacular ski destination which ticks every box. A massive ski area with varied terrain, unrivalled mountain scenery, incredible hospitality and some of the best mountain huts you’ll find anywhere in Europe. Part of the South Tyrol, Val Gardena combines the best of both Italian and Austrian hospitality. It really has it all!
Explore the slopes
The local Val Gardena ski area offers an impressive 181km of slopes with the full linked Dolomiti Superski area providing upwards of 500km of skiing to explore. The local ski area includes the Alpe di Siusi slopes, ideal for beginners and intermediates, as well as the resorts of Selva, Ortisei and Santa Cristina. More advanced skiers will love the World Cup downhill and Super G run into S. Cristina (Saslong) and the pistes off the Dantercepies gondola are fantastic for those who love cruising down the mountain at speed. A must for skiers of all levels is the Sella Ronda circuit. Make your way around the stunning Sella Massif, exploring the full Dolomiti Superski area all the while marvelling at the incredible scenery en route. The Marmolada glacier is also within reach and offers fantastic skiing at heights of over 3000m – it will literally take your breath away!
Enjoy the resort
Ortisei
As the largest of the villages in Val Gardena, you’ll find plenty going on in Ortisei. Many of the streets are pedestrianised and there are some beautiful buildings to admire including the historic Saint Ulrich chapel. With typical chalet architecture, there’s no mistaking that you’re in the South Tyrol. It’s a lovely place to stroll through with plenty of cafés, shops and restaurants to sample. World famous for its artisan wood carving, look out for hand crafted figures in a number of shop windows.
Selva di Val Gardena
This is a traditional village where the mountain scenery does all the talking. Most buildings are a classic chalet style and you’ll find everything you need in this compact resort, including a good range of restaurants and shops, coupled with a warm welcome. Influences are both Italian and Austrian which gives Selva a unique atmosphere and feel.
Where to stay
Our hand-picked hotels in Selva di Val Gardena and Ortisei are a great choice for your next holiday. The Hotel Tyrol in Selva di Val Gardena enjoys a fantastic location close to the slopes and the resort centre, making it an ideal choice to get the most from this excellent destination. The Hotel Gardena Grödnerhof is a spectacular 5-star property with a central location in Ortisei. Here you’ll find exceptional service and facilities to ensure you have an unforgettable holiday.
Image: ©DOLOMITESValGardena
"Selva di Val Gardena is without doubt my favourite ski resort. Quite simply, it has it all. An enormous ski area, the best mountain scenery in the world, unrivalled hospitality and a warm heart. You won’t be disappointed."
Offers in Val Gardena
Après-Ski in Val Gardena
Ortisei
Generally speaking, après-ski is on the quieter side in Ortisei with many cosy cafes to enjoy. For a final pit stop on the Alpe di Siusi side of the mountain, the Malga Schgaguler Schwaige mountain hut offers spectacular view from its beautiful sun terrace – perfect to enjoy a slice of apple strudel or an Aperol spritz before skiing back to the village! On the Seceda side, the Curona Hut and the Restaurant Costamula offer similarly excellent views.
Selva di Val Gardena
Après is a relaxed affair in Selva di Val Gardena with most evening activity centring predominantly around food (as you would expect in Italy). Call in at one of the mountain huts on your last run down to resort and you’ll find a warm welcome and great atmosphere as skiers enjoy an aperitivo. A particular favourite is Baita Panorama near the top of the Dantercepies gondola. If you’re lucky, you might hear the owner singing Nessun Dorma or even yodelling!
Dining in Val Gardena
Ortisei
This region is famed for the quality of its cuisine and the warmth of its hospitality. For a fining dining gourmet experience, head to the Anna Stuben (part of the Hotel Gardena Grödnerhof) which has been awarded a Michelin star. Award winning chef Reimund Brunner uses local produce to create stunning dishes which are a feast for both the taste buds and the eyes! The look and feel of Tubladel is traditional and cosy and the quality and innovation of its dishes means it’s well worth a visit. Zicoria Brasserie offers a contemporary dining room with a great wine and cocktail bar.
Selva di Val Gardena
You’ll find no shortage of dining options in Selva di Val Gardena with something to suit every taste and budget. Restaurant Europa offers delicious local specialities, Sal Fëur serves excellent pasta dishes and pizzas and Pizzeria Rino is great for informal dining. For something more refined, Sunisom at the Hotel Tyrol offers modern and creative dishes combining traditional Tyrolean and Mediterranean flavours.
Activities in Val Gardena
Aside from the fantastic skiing on offer, you’ll find plenty of other activities on offer in Val Gardena. Whether it’s tobogganing, ice skating, zipline, swimming, snow shoeing or winter hiking, you’re sure to find something to keep you busy. Guests staying in Ortisei should check out the 3km scenic toboggan run from the Resciesa funicular station and the 220m2 boulder centre.

