Val Gardena in the Dolomites is a snow-dusted wonderland straight out of a fairytale. Imagine the most enchanting Christmas village depicted in Hollywood movies—now make it even more magical, and you’ll get a glimpse of this destination’s charm. Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Val Gardena offers the ultimate backdrop for winter romance, blending adrenaline-filled snowboarding, sledding, and serene natural beauty with heartwarming cultural experiences.
My recent trip with friends, Isioma and Rod, was nothing short of unforgettable, and I’m thrilled to share all the highlights to inspire your own dream winter getaway. This guide is specially crafted for adventurous women looking for breathtaking landscapes, exciting ski and snowboard adventures, and a touch of magic to make the journey truly special.
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Getting There: From Bergamo to Val Gardena
Flying into Milan’s Bergamo Airport is probably the most pocket-friendly way to reach Val Gardena (flights to closer airports like Bolzano and Innsbruck were convoluted and expensive). From there, we rented an SUV and embarked on a scenic drive through the breathtaking landscapes of northern Italy. The journey took us past charming towns, rolling hills, and, eventually, the towering peaks of the Dolomites.
Airports Close to Val Gardena
- Bolzano Dolomiti BZO – 40 km distance
- Innsbruck Innsbruck INN – 120 km distance
- Verona Villafranca “Valerio Catullo” VRN – 190 km distance
- Bergamo Orio al Serio BGY – 270 km distance
- Venice Marco Polo VCE – 270 km distance
- Munich Franz Josef Strauß MUC – 300 km distance
- Milano Milano-Malpensa MXP – 350 km distance
- Salzburg W. A. Mozart SZG – 320 km distance
- Zurich Zürich-Kloten ZRH – 420 km distance
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Ski-Related Facts About Val Gardena
Val Gardena, nestled in the stunning Dolomites of northern Italy, is a ski destination that has it all—amazing slopes, incredible views, and a unique vibe you won’t find anywhere else. Set in a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Fun fact: Val Gardena is part of South Tyrol, a region that used to be Austria before World War I, so you’ll find this cool mix of Italian, Austrian, and Ladin cultures everywhere—from the food to the architecture. It’s the ultimate spot for adventure and Alpine charm!
- Part of the Dolomiti Superski Area: Val Gardena is part of the Dolomiti Superski (12 linked mountain resorts), one of the largest ski areas in the world, with over 1,200 kilometers of interconnected slopes.
- Val Gardena Villages: The Val Gardena Valley is home to three main villages: Ortisei (St. Ulrich), Santa Cristina (St. Christina), and Selva (Wolkenstein).
- Impressive Vertical Drop: The 10km La Longia trail offers an impressive vertical drop of 1,200 meters, making it a favorite among thrill-seekers.
- World-Class Ski Events: The area hosts international events like the FIS Ski World Cup, attracting top athletes and spectators from around the globe.
- Well-Maintained Lifts: With 79 modern lifts, getting around the slopes is seamless and efficient.
Where to Stay: Hotel Silvana
We made Hotel Silvana our home base, and it was everything we hoped for in a cozy alpine retreat with less than a 5-minute trek to a ski lift (less than a 15-minute walk to Ciampinoi gondola). 3 buses regularly stop less than a 2-minute walk from the hotel, making logistics without a car very easy. The hotel’s half-board option provided us with a delicious breakfast each morning and indulgent four-course Italian/German dinners that left us completely satisfied after long days on the slopes. Thursdays are the only exception, as dinner isn’t served, which gave us an excuse to explore the local dining scene. Besides our delicious meals, soaking up in the hotel’s hot tub and giving our muscles some much-needed R&R in the steamer and sauna made for a daily spiritual experience that we took very seriously.
The friendly staff made us feel right at home, and the location was ideal for accessing both the slopes and nearby attractions. Pro tip: Book early, as this hotel is a popular choice for winter sports enthusiasts, and ask for a mountain view room (the views from every floor are spectacular).
Snowboarding Highlights
Download the Dolomiti Superski App to help track and guide your routes across the mountains; this came in handy while doing the Sella Ronda circuit, which can be quite confusing if using just the slope signs. This app also came in handy when I helped a lady get some much-needed emergency crew; I was able to contact the emergency number provided on the app and gave them our location coordinates that was also provided by the app.
1. The Sella Ronda: A Must-Do Circuit
The Sella Ronda is an iconic 40-kilometer circuit that takes you through four valleys, offering a thrilling mix of runs and jaw-dropping views. This day-long adventure was one of the highlights of our trip. From perfectly groomed slopes to cozy mountain huts serving up delicious alpine treats, the Sella Ronda is a bucket-list experience for snowboarders (the flats were manageable even for a beginner like me!) Make sure to start the experience as early as 10 AM if you want to experience a nice leisurely circuit that will get you back to your preferred lift access before the lift’s closing time of 4:30 PM. You need to have the Dolomiti Superski pass to access the different mountains on this trail.
2. La Longia: A Legendary Trail
For those craving a long, exhilarating descent, La Longia is a must! This 10-kilometer trail takes you from the Seceda summit to Ortisei, winding through forests, and breathtaking open landscapes. Toward the end of the trail, we stopped for breakfast at Val D’Anna, where we enjoyed fresh pastries, a luxurious cup of hot chocolate, and a steaming cup of coffee before continuing our ride. The best time to hit this trail is first thing in the morning while it is freshly groomed and ready to be ridden hard. I’m a beginner-intermediate rider and I highly recommend this trail to others seeking some magical rides in Val Gardenia. Note – you can book a 7:30 a.m. (the thrill of being the first) ride down La Longia before it opens to the public at 8:30 a.m. and the package comes with breakfast at Val D’Anna (available on Thursdays only).
Val Gardena offers the perfect backdrop for some winter romance with a blend of adrenaline-filled snowboarding, sledding, heartwarming cultural experiences, and unparalleled natural beauty.
Après-Ski in Val Gardena
Val Gardena is just as lively off the slopes as it is on them. While on the slopes, 65 mountain huts offer a great array of wine and beer selections that will keep you merry as you ride down the mountain. Off the slopes, the towns have many bars and restaurants that cater to a fun après-ski scene. Prices of drinks and food on and off the slopes are super affordable too! A glass of wine is about 5 euros, which is also the price of hot chocolate.
Some must-visit spots include:
- La Stua in Selva Val Gardena: A lively, rustic bar with a warm atmosphere and fantastic mulled wine. It’s a short walk from the Ciampinoi gondola entrance and most of the crowd riding down that trail end up here. It gets pretty packed from lunchtime till night. Open from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
- Luislkeller: Known for its lively vibe and self-titled as the ‘best après-ski in the Alps’, offers great cocktails, and pumping music that keeps the energy high after a day of thrilling rides. Open from 3:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
- Mountain Huts: For a more laid-back experience, enjoy a glass of wine or local beer by the firepit at one of the 65 mountain huts spread across the mountain. Opening times for the huts vary, most are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Whether you’re socializing or just relaxing with your crew, après-ski in Val Gardena adds an extra layer of fun to your trip.
Dining in Val Gardena
Food in Val Gardena is a culinary journey through Italian, German, and Ladin traditions. Some standout dining experiences include:
- Rifugio Emilio Comici: Perched high in the mountains, this hut serves up the freshest seafood, a rarity for a ski destination. Their linguine with lobster is a must-try.
- Anna Stuben: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering a refined dining experience with dishes inspired by local ingredients and traditions.
- Pizzeria L’Medel: Perfect for a casual meal with friends, their wood-fired pizzas are a crowd-pleaser.
Pro tip: Make reservations in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot at these popular eateries.
Female Safety Facts in Val Gardena
Val Gardena stands out as a safe and welcoming destination for solo female travelers and women’s groups. Here’s why:
- Friendly Locals: The locals are warm, approachable, and eager to help visitors feel at home. I mentioned earlier about helping a lady out during an emergency, multiple people stopped to also offer help.
- Low Crime Rate: The region is known for its safety, with minimal reports of crime.
- Supportive Community: Women traveling alone will find the hospitality staff, ski instructors, and tour guides ready to assist with any needs.
- Well-Connected Transportation: Reliable bus services and taxis make it easy to get around, even during late hours. Most hotels offer complimentary bus passes to guests with their bookings.
- Inclusive Atmosphere: Isioma and I, as Black travelers, stood out in this predominantly white region but never felt unwelcome. Locals went out of their way to make us feel comfortable.
Beyond Snowboarding: Things to Do in Val Gardena
Val Gardena isn’t just about the slopes; for over 400 years, Val Gardena was mostly known for religious sculptures before becoming a ski town with commissioned art spread globally and many are also showcased around the town. You can spend days indulging in art, amazing culinary activities like cheese tasting, pastry-making classes, wine tasting, beer tasting, sledding after dinner on the mountain, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and so much more. Here’s what we explored beyond snowboarding:
1. Discovering Ortisei’s Artistic Side
The charming town of Ortisei is a hub of creative sculptures brimming with traditional Christian themes. During our guided tour, we wandered through its picturesque streets, an ornate church, a museum, and visited a local art workshop. At the workshop, we met a family of 3 generational skilled artisans who create intricate wood sculptures that reflect the region’s heritage. The craftsmanship we witnessed was nothing short of inspiring and some by Filip Piccolruaz, were downright cheeky.
2. A Unique Beer Experience
As a lover of unique experiences, I couldn’t resist the chance to learn about Val Gardena’s brewing traditions. On the “Something’s Brewing” tour, we discovered how pristine mountain spring water is transformed into exceptional beers. The tasting session at Monpier de Gherdenia was a highlight, featuring a variety of brews paired with delicious local snacks.
3. The Thrill of First Tracks
Eager to be among the first on the slopes, we set our alarms for 6:30 am to catch the first lift at 7:30 am. Unfortunately, we missed the group due to the first ski bus not getting there till 7:40 a.m., and self-driving was too sketchy while it snowed heavily. Still, we managed to start riding at 8:30 am when the lifts opened to everyone else. The untouched snow and early morning light made the effort worthwhile. It was a magical way to experience the mountain before most of the crowds arrived, and the included breakfast at Val D’Anna made the experience even more special.
4. Cross-Country Skiing in Vallunga
For a change of pace, I tried my hand at cross-country skiing in Vallunga, which is nestled within the Puez-Odle Nature Park. As a beginner, I found the trails manageable yet challenging enough to keep things exciting. The serene setting and fresh mountain air made this an experience to remember. I’m not sure if I’ll ever give skiing a try, but this was a good introduction to the idea of maybe skiing in the future.
Visit Val Gardena’s activity page to book an activity that’s best for you.
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Language Tips and Key Phrases to Learn
Val Gardena’s unique mix of German and Italian influences is reflected in the languages spoken throughout the region. Most locals are bilingual, but English is less common, particularly with some tour guides or older residents. Knowing a few key phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience and making interactions smoother. Here are some essential phrases to help you get by:
German Phrases:
- Guten Tag! (Good day!)
- Wie viel kostet das? (How much does this cost?)
- Wo ist die Bushaltestelle? (Where is the bus stop?)
- Ich brauche Hilfe. (I need help.)
- Sprechen Sie Englisch? (Do you speak English?)
- Danke schön! (Thank you very much!)
- Entschuldigung. (Excuse me.)
- Können Sie das bitte übersetzen? (Can you translate this, please?)
Italian Phrases:
- Buongiorno! (Good morning!)
- Quanto costa? (How much does it cost?)
- Dov’è la fermata dell’autobus? (Where is the bus stop?)
- Ho bisogno di aiuto. (I need help.)
- Parla inglese? (Do you speak English?)
- Grazie mille! (Thank you very much!)
- Mi scusi. (Excuse me.)
- Può tradurre questo, per favore? (Can you translate this, please?)
Practical Tips:
- Use a translation app like Google Translate, and download offline German and Italian language packs before your trip.
- Pointing and gestures can help if you get stuck.
- The locals always appreciate a warm smile and basic phrases in German or Italian.
Tips for Planning Your Val Gardena Adventure
- Transportation Matters: If you’re planning early morning activities, double-check bus schedules or consider accommodations closer to the lifts to avoid delays. Only specific buses allow ski or snowboard gear on board, and the buses start to run at 7 AM.
- Ski and Snowboard Gear Rentals: Renting your snowboard gear is a breeze in Val Gardena. I highly recommend Ski Rental 2000 for their excellent service and quality equipment. They also offer a gear delivery service if needed (they dropped off my regular shoes at my hotel).
- Book Activities Early: Guided tours and experiences like beer tasting are popular, so reserve your spot in advance.
- Dress for Success: Layering is key to staying comfortable in the ever-changing mountain weather and make sure your goggles are great for all conditions; it can go from very sunny to foggy in minutes.
- Savor the Food and Drinks: Don’t miss out on Val Gardena’s culinary delights, from hearty mountain meals to sweet pastries that will warm your soul. Make sure to try a cup of hot chocolate on the mountain; the thick creamy richness is unmatched!
- Take Your Time: With so much to see and do, it’s tempting to pack your itinerary. Remember to slow down and soak in the beauty of the Dolomites.
Why Val Gardena Should Be Your Next Snowboarding Destination
Val Gardena is more than just a snowboarding paradise; it’s a place where adventure, culture, and natural beauty come together to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re carving up the Sella Ronda, cruising down La Longia, or exploring the artistic traditions of Ortisei, there’s something for everyone in this Dolomite gem.
The warm hospitality of the locals, combined with the region’s breathtaking scenery and thrilling activities, ensures that Val Gardena leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. Start planning your adventure today, and prepare to fall in love with this winter wonderland!
