Destination Features
- A UNESCO World Heritage site, this area of the Dolomites is very picturesque and surrounded by breathtaking nature, offering a total of 1220km of slopes covering 12 ski zones including the world’s largest ski circuit tour, the Sellaronda. The village of Selva Gardena in the Italian Dolomites is at an altitude of 1563m. The highest village in this Dolomite mountain range, Selva Gardena is famous for its great hospitality as well as its exceptional location within the most beautiful slopes of the Dolomiti Superski area.
- There is plenty to see and do in the Dolomite mountains, which locals say ‘provides the largest gym in the world’. A climbing garden introduces beginners to the sport, and there are many vie ferrate to progress on. There are extensive hiking paths and you could spend weeks in the region hiking a different route each day. Mountain bikers give way to skiers and snowboarders as Winter approaches, and there are plenty of paths for snowshoe hikers too. The village of Selva Gardena is famous for its history and beautiful chapels such as the Maria Himmelfahrt chapel and Silvester chapel, as well as the castle ruins which provide a spectacular day out.
- For those looking for traditional Italian food, you are spoilt for choice in the Dolomites. The area around Selva Gardena has an abundance of pizzerias and Pizzeria Saskia, or L Fudlé are popular. There are also some great meat grills such as the laid back Ustaria Da Checco. La Bula offers traditional Italian food in a warm family atmosphere as well as Tyrolean dishes. Paratoni is a farmers kitchen, set at high altitude, offering homemade authentic dishes produced with local homegrown ingredients. The Wine Bar Cercia is a popular wine and cocktail bar offering a wide selection of South Tyrolean wines amongst other beverages.
- The Dolomites offers a wide range of outdoor activities including Winter and Summer sports, as well as a rich calendar of cultural, musical and sporting events all year round. In the Summer, Val Gardena hosts a half marathon, a cycling event called the HERO, Bike Day and the Unika Art Fair. ‘Groden in Tracht’ Folklore Festival celebrates local traditions, and there are daily activities such as torch-lit walks, special hikes, gastronomic experiences and guided tours of the area. In Winter, the slopes around Selva Gardena host the FIS Ski World Cup, and the popular Rock the Dolomites music festival. A Skimarathon takes place annually on the Sellaronda which attracts 1,000 participants who compete over 42km with a 2,800m elevation gain, all at night. For something a little less challenging the Spring Race Party has a fun and friendly atmosphere with fancy dress, D.J’s and an obstacle challenge.
- The most helpful website for fact finding and general information about the Dolomites is provided by valgardena.
