Val Gardena is located in the northern area of the Dolomites and forms a collection of resorts and mountain slopes that is said to be the largest snowboarding area in the world. There is a staggering 600 miles of marked trails that are serviced by some 460 lifts of all shapes and styles, all can be utilised by the Dolomiti Superski pass. A limited pass called the 'Val Gardena' still covers 175km of piste with 82 lifts. In every season the world of the Dolomites demonstrates its particular charm in an impressive beauty. The three main villages are Ortisei, S. Cristina and Selva in Val Gardena (in all only 6 miles distance) and not only offer beautiful nature, but also a wide variety of art and culture. Val Gardena is situated at a height of 1200 to 1700 meters above sea level. The alpine meadows and ski slopes rise up to 2518 m and the mountain peaks up to 3181 m.
Ortisei is situated at 1236 m above sea level and is the biggest village of Val Gardena. It counts 5750 inhabitants and has an inviting pedestrian area where to shop all year around. From the village centre you can reach in just a few minutes the mountains Alpe di Siusi and Seceda, from where you can hike and climb wherever you want to.
S. Cristina is located at an altitude of 1428 m above sea level, opposite the Sassolungo, and is the smallest of the three Val Gardena villages. Both in winter and in summer it’s worth to be chosen for your holiday. Either for sports or relaxation or to enjoy music, culture and arts, S. Cristina is the ideal holiday destination. The near Dolomite peaks invite to hike and climb. Directly from the village centre you can reach by foot or by lift all the beautiful mountains around.
Selva Gardena is situated at an altitude of 1563 m above sea level and counts 2600 inhabitants. Surrounded by the mountains Sella and Sassolungo it’s one of the most famous and popular villages in the Alps. One of Selva’s characteristics is surely its great hospitality. The guest has a wide offer to choose from: from the 4 or 5 star hotel to the small family run hotel, from the bed & breakfast to the cosy private apartment. Unique peaks and fascinating landscapes invite to walk or climb, to mountain-bike or to paraglide. Alone as well as accompanied by an experienced guide Selva and its surroundings are worth to be discovered step by step.
A holiday in Val Gardena promises in every season unique experiences in front of the unique backdrop of the mighty mountain giants. It doesn’t matter if you prefer to relax and enjoy, to experience culture and tradition or want an active holiday: the holiday in this region has got the right offer for every taste. You will meet customs and traditions, if you take part to traditional events and visit regional markets during your holidays in Val Gardena. At the same time while meeting the local gastronomy, you will get in touch with Austrian specialties and Mediterranean-influenced cuisine, as well as with the proverbial South Tyrolean hospitality.
Val Gardena was once a very difficult mountain valley to reach. Today it has become highly popular for sports and nature lovers. It is the starting point for many hiking and trekking trails and a great place to go rock climbing. The two thousand years of history behind this amazing place can still be heard, “Benunìte Gherdeina!” is the way the Grödner Tal – Val Gardena inhabitants will greet you upon arrival. In Val Gardena the art of handcrafting and sculpting has become an actual business. To see with your hands and feel with your eyes – this is what transforms craftsmanship into art. What was once considered to be a hobby that could bring you a bit of extra money and help you pay bills is now an internationally recognised form of art and is one of the main sources of income; along with tourism; in Val Gardena. The Grödner Heimatmuseum – Museo del Patrimonio della Val Gardena in St. Ulrich - Ortisei keeps some of the most prestigious displays of craftsmanship. A permanent display at the Grödner Heimatmuseum – Museo del Patrimonio della Val Gardena is dedicated to Luis Trenker the Val Gardena mountaineer, architect and director. Val Gardena is also known for excellent sportswomen such as Olympic bronze medalist ice skater Carolina Kostner and her cousin and professional skier Isolde.
The Gherdëina Local Heritage Museum
39046 Urtijëi, Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol, Italy
Unika Sculptor’s Fair
39046 Urtijëi, Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol, Italy
Stetteneck Castle
39046 Urtijëi, Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol, Italy
Wolkenstein Castle
39048 Sëlva, Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol, Italy
St Jacob’s Church
39046 Urtijëi, Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol, Italy
St. Anne's Chapel
39046 Urtijëi, Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol, Italy
St. Anthony’s Chapel
39046 Urtijëi, Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol, Italy
Castel Gardena
39048 Selva di Val Gardena BZ, Italy
Maridiana Monte Pana
Strada Pana, 4, 39047 Santa Cristina Valgardena BZ, Italy
The Presepe of S. Cristina
39047 Santa Cristina Gherdëina, Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol, ItalyThe author
Eleonora Ruzzenenti
Are you ready to experience this story yourself?
