Gherdëina Magazine 360° - Edition 2020 - ENG

360° magazine 2020

Trail running Winter safari Curona de GherdĂŤina Typical costumes

Precious handcrafted creations

Cir 2.592 m

Gruppo Sella

COLOPHON: Concept and creation: WINX Design&Marketing – Ortisei | List of accomodation: Artprint/We2P – Bressanone | Print: Grafiche STELLA Srl | Foto: DOLOMITES Val Gardena; Athesia - Tappeiner Verlag; Fabrizia Postiglione; Diego Moroder Design; wisthaler.com; Freddy Planinschek; Simon Caio; Helmuth Rier; Mattheus Kostner; Patrick Senoner; Lukas Runggaldier; Scuola Sci & Snowboard Ortisei, Werner Dejori; Marco Wanker; Dietmar Denger; Robert Perathoner; Dolomites Saslonch Half Marathon – News Pover; Sebastian Stiphout; Sellaronda Skimarathon, Flugbild Atlas.

Piz Boé 3.152 m

Marmolada 3.342 m

Sassolungo 3.181 m

Sassopiatto 2.956 m

Journalist and globetrotter photographer, Fabrizia Postiglione has been travelling around the world for thirty years and has published hundreds of reports in more than sixty prestigious Italian and foreign magazines. She considers herself a restless nomad and has lived in fascinating cities such as Rio, Miami and New York. Passionate about trekking and cycling, she has a soft spot for the Dolomites, and especially for Val Gardena, which she loves to explore on foot or on her racing bike.

Index 6. A look back in time

The history of the “Pale mountains”

9. Typical costumes

Precious handcrafted creations

11. F ree climbing

Interview with Filip Schenk

13. E at in the gourmet huts

Experience the rustic Ladin gastronomic tradition

15. An ocean of corollas in technicolor Spring in Val Gardena

17. T rail running

Birgit Stuffer – an enthusiastic trail runner

18. Winter opening in Val Gardena Magical white landscapes

21. Skiing in Val Gardena

Testimonial: Manuel Runggaldier

23. W inter safari

Perfect scenario for outdoor activities

24. Winter highlights 26. O ur ski schools and ski pass prices 28. Gherdëina

The three Val Gardena jewels

As the seasons change, the Dolomites dress in snow or flowers, in green meadows or in flaming leaves. But they still remain, as Le Corbusier said, the “most beautiful natural architecture in the world”.

The menu of this magazine is particularly appetising. We will take you by the hand on a spectacular hike, Curona de Gherdëina, a trek along the paths that cross the most beautiful peaks that dominate this valley.

The dressmaker Franziska Beikircher, on the other hand, creates some of the elaborate traditional costumes, which you can admire in the summer parades and festivities. Even if you suffer from vertigo, you can read about the daring climbs of the very young free climber Filip Schenk.

Do fresh air and outdoor activities make you hungry? No need to worry: Val Gardena is the cradle of gourmet huts, where Ladin cuisine is masterfully reinterpreted to tickle the palates of the most demanding.

Birgit Stuffer, an experienced trail runner, will recommend the most scenic trails, made even more beautiful by the spring blossom.

Manuel Runggaldier, ski instructor, will take us to discover the most exciting slopes of Val Gardena. But for those who do not ski downhill, there are many alternative activities, such as Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, ski mountaineering and tobogganing on long dedicated slopes.

In summer, families can enjoy themselves in Vallunga, a paradise for children’s games and outdoor activities. Not to be missed is a ride on the Sentiero del Trenino, the panoramic cycle path that joins Ortisei, S. Cristina and Selva, built on the former railway line. When you discover South Tyrol and Val Gardena, you cannot help but come back.

Welcome to the Dolomites!

31. Summer in the heart of Ladin tradition A fairy tale called Dolomites

33. T rekking: Curona de Gherdëina Walking around spectacular paths

35. A family summer

An eden called Vallunga

36. Summer highlights 39. Burning Dolomites

A flamboyant spectacle of colours

41. T he path of the little train Cycling through history

42. Offers 43. Val Gardena on the web 44. A great beauty to defend

Column by Fabrizia Postiglione

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A look back in time

The sky is embellished by the occasional fleecy cloud, the air is as clear as crystal, the woods extend up the Dolomites as far as the eyes can see. These are mountains which the architect and painter Le Corbusier called „the most beautiful architecture in the world“. A practically perfect scenario (since 2009 a UNESCO World Heritage) that tells a fascinating geological history, when millions and millions of years ago this region was a vast and immense plain that over the centuries turned into a sea, with atolls and volcanoes that grew in size. Then, everything sank into the water, until Europe and Africa clashed, bringing out these imposing and soaring mountains. The geologists who have studied the dolomite rock and its evolution speak of three different processes, which correspond to precise historical moments. Lithogenesis, or the transformation of sediments into rock, orogenesis, with the emergence of mountains from the sea, and morphogenesis, or the shaping of these peaks by atmospheric agents. It can

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therefore be said that the Dolomites preserve the memory of the sea. And you only have to look at the Sella Group to understand it. In the Middle Triassic (between 236 and 231 million years ago) it was little more than an atoll, surrounded by volcanic cones, hence its squat and rounded shape that we admire today. A superhuman stone manor that changes appearance depending on the angle of view. The image of primitive coral reefs is revealed to the eye also admiring the Sassolungo Group, the Sciliar, the Latermar, the Marmolada, the Catinaccio, the Pale di S. Martino, the Odle, the Putia and the lower part of the Civetta.

An invaluable heritage of spires, peaks, bell towers, towers, poles, prisms, parallelepipeds immersed in a natural context among the most varied, complex and envied in the world. The term Dolomites is attributed to the Marquis DĂŠodat de Dolomieu who, between 1789 and 1790, returning from a study trip to Italy, collected samples of light rock. The samples were

analysed by the chemist and botanist Nicolas-ThĂŠodore de Saussurre, who established that the mineral component, not yet known, was a double carbonate of calcium and magnesium and gave it the name Dolomite in honor of his friend. The new term appeared in 1794 in an English text on mineralogy and became commonly used only after the First World War. Looking at and touching these stones transmits, just like in the days of Dolomieu and Saussure, energy, strength, but also peace and serenity. All thanks to the extraordinary colours, those that gave birth to the famous legend of the Pale Mountains. One cannot help but be enraptured by nrosadura, a term that in Ladin, the ancient language of the populations of these Dolomite valleys, indicates the phenomenon that occurs above all at sunset, when the rocky walls - caressed by the last rays of the sun - develop infinite shades that range from light yellow to fiery red, and then turn into various levels of pink and purple, until they disappear in the darkness of the night.

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Typical costumes In Val Gardena, la vita da zacan, that is to say the lifestyle of the past, is still very much alive through traditional clothes, which are among the richest and most original in the entire Alpine region. Still today, they are worn during processions, great religious feasts, folklore parades, summer festivities. The Associations of Val Gardena costumes are very active in keeping this important cultural heritage alive and well, handing it down to successive generations.

These are handcrafted creations, made with lace of tombolo, threads, ribbons, precious fabrics and hard stones. Today many dresses are handmade by the talented dressmaker Franziska Beikircher. Their evolution, from the simple style of the 16th century to the refined and elegant style of the 18th century, is described in the book “I costumi della Val Gardena”, by Donatella Bindi Mondaini. Adults and children wore clothes with different ornamental elements that also revealed their social identity. On the occasion of the festivities, however, everyone wore a hat and a black cape, called respectively Cneidl and Bagana. The belt is definitely the most precious part of the costume, a leather band embroidered by hand in peacock pen rachis. Another outstanding element, this in women, is their hair. The decoration of the head is as complicated as it is fascinating, with a garland, pointed crowns, a woolen head-piece, a cap embellished with precious lace: a beauty habit, and is also a way of distinguishing married women from single women.

The latter, in fact, wore a braid collected in a chignon and often a pointed crown; married women, however, collected their hair in a tuft blocked by a needle, a comb and a wide bandage of black silk. Also very popular is a woolen cap called Cazina. Another feature of married women was also a yellow scarf (pink or red for singles). All these rules are still respected today during the holidays, to pass on to their children the love for their land and ancestors. Exceptionally, precious and rare components of traditional Val Gardena clothing are also exhibited at the Museum of Val Gardena (Museum de Gherdëina - Cësa di Ladins) in Ortisei.

Among the most important parades in the valley, the Corteo Val Gardena in costume takes place on the first Sunday of August in rotation in one of the three municipalities. Other events that allow you to admire these fabulous tailoring creations include the Corpus Christi Procession in June and the Mass for the Assumption into Heaven of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15.

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1 The dressing of a little girl inside a traditional stube of an ancient farmstead in S. Cristina; 2 Eavy loden coats are hung from a fence while participants in the traditional costume parade in S. Cristina enjoy a refreshing beer; 3 The elaborate hairstyle of a little girl, with a braid collected in a chignon and a crown; 4 Couples on parade in S. Cristina; 5 Examples of traditional costumes of children, a married couple and a young spouse; 6 The seamstress Franziska Beikircher. nuef

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FREE CLIMBING Interview with Filip Schenk

Flamboyant hair, big hazel eyes, a cheeky smile, a slightly tanned face from the continuous exposure to the sun of the Dolomites, a light and athletic body, where every muscle sinew is ready to react to the slightest command. We meet him at the foot of the Sassolungo, an icon of Val Gardena.

He is only 19 years old, but he is already a star of freeclimbing: he has won the Youth World Championships twice and once the European Youth Championships, and he certainly knows what he wants to do in life. In fact, some major sponsors have already bet on him. Filip Schenk was born in Vipiteno and lives in S. Cristina. He started climbing at the age of six, together with his parents, but his great passion was passed on to him mainly by his mother.

The whole family is committed to this sport, one which Filip loves very much „because you can practice outdoors and you never do the same movements, as the case in many other disciplines”. The contact with nature is very important, says Filip: „I always feel very good when I am in the mountains, but at the same time I also have a lot of respect for them”. Obviously, he prefers the Dolomites „because they are beautiful to see and because I grew up here, among these peaks“. Preparation for the races includes lots of training hours on the indoor walls. He often goes to Arco, a city in Trentino, to climb the faces there, but if he trains in Val Gardena, then he prefers to go up the passes: „on Passo Gardena I love a place called Murfrëit and on Passo Sella a location called Cansla“. Val Gardena is an eden for every kind of climbing and offers many stimulating rock gyms, with routes of different heights and degrees of difficulty for all

types of „climbers“. For mountaineers, for example, there are the legendary climbs on Sassolungo, Sas Rigais and Furchetta, with the possibility of going higher than three thousand metres. Those who prefer sport climbing will find something to suit their taste at Sassolungo, at Torri del Sella, in the Odle Group and on the Sella, which offer a variety of short, long, easy, difficult, overhanging and plaque routes. Most of the routes were opened by the „Catores“ mountaineering group.

Those who prefer bouldering, on the other hand, will discover a magnificent playground in the City of Stones. Less experienced people and families are advised to always be accompanied by mountain guides.

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Eat in the Gourmet Huts In Val Gardena the palate is pampered by a thousand delicious dishes that recall the rustic Ladin gastronomic traditions, consisting of exquisite cheeses, butter, yoghurt and alpine pasture ricotta cheese, mushrooms, polenta, game, speck, berries and the inevitable apples.

With skis or snowshoes in winter, or with hiking boots or on a mountain bike in summer, you can visit some of the most beautiful „2.0 refuges“, where a new generation of restaurateurs has refined the art of recreating the ancient recipes in a modern and imaginative way, making the lunch break, snack or dinner in the mountains an occasion to celebrate with unusual and appetizing contents.

On these „gourmet peaks“ you go beyond the cliché „grappa e canederli“ (grappa and dumplings) to offer a 360-degree gastronomic experience, worthy of any gourmet cities you care to mention.

The interior decoration of the mountain huts has also been transformed: the classic Tyrolean atmospheres, in fact, are often represented in a more modern and minimal mountain chic style, offering refined, but always authentic environments.

You should, of course, try the succulent meat dishes of the highest quality, such as beef tartare, deer medallions from the valley in plum sauce with parsnip cream and glazed chestnuts, the heart of beef fillet with Lagrein and green pepper. On the slopes and along the most exciting trails you can enjoy specialties that happily combine Ladin flavors and Mediterranean touches, such as cooked tuna with sesame or paccheri with pesto and shrimp. Some of the mountain huts offer delicious organic dishes, such as pappardelle with porcini mushrooms, barley soup, tortelli stuffed with chanterelles, pannacotta of malga milk with berry sauce.

At an altitude of over two thousand metres, you can even enjoy the freshest fish: from the bavette with lobster to the tuna carpaccio with candied tomatoes and ginger, from fried squid and prawns to cuttlefish and octopus salad, and to be accompanied with prosecco or with one of the many renowned wines of South Tyrol.

In Val Gardena it is impossible not to taste one of the many variations (made with puff pastry or short pastry, for example) of the sweet symbol of South Tyrol: the apple strudel. As a dessert it always fits: it is fabulous in winter, presented perhaps warm and accompanied by warm vanilla cream and a sprinkling of cinnamon, but it is also delicious in summer, served cold with vanilla ice cream.

In addition to apples, the filling generally includes butter, sugar, rum, pine nuts and raisins.

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1 Apple fritters with wild berry sauce and vanilla ice cream from the Sofie Hut; 2 Local valley veal medallions in plum sauce with parsnip cream and glazed chestnuts from the Gerard Chalet; 3 Various types of bread served at the Piz Seteur refuge; 4 Cereal risotto with speck; 5 “Grosti cun Craut” made with a mixture of flour, water and potatoes with sauerkraut; 6 The delicious apple strudel of the Toni Demetz Hut on Sassolungo; 7 At Pauli Hut in Ortisei. trëdesc 13

Long and narrow, framed by the spectacular peaks of the Odle, the Sella Group, the Sassolungo Group, Resciesa, Seceda and Alpe di Siusi, the Val Gardena blossoms like a fairy tale as the traveller approaches from Val d‘Isarco.

Ortisei is almost all curled up on the side facing south of Resciesa, to the right of the Gardena torrent and stream. Its pastel-coloured houses are frescoed with rustic scenes, images of saints, baroque friezes and in summer are made even more joyful by balconies, terraces and windows overflowing with flowers. These „murals“ also multiply in the other two municipalities of Val Gardena, S. Cristina and Selva, strongly characterising the valley. Spring in South Tyrol offers a thousand facets: if in April in Val Venosta and Merano apple orchards as far as the eye can see bloom like clouds of white and pink petals (to be enjoyed along the scenic

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paths running alongside streams and rivers or by bike on the various dedicated paths). And in Val Gardena you can still ski, in this month, taking advantage of mild temperatures and long days to enjoy the slopes. Often you can even think of sunbathing in a costume outside one of the huts -a different sort of break on your ski holiday! This is also the ideal time for ski mountaineering. At a lower altitude you can enjoy the first walks on the sunny slopes of Laion and the blossoming of the pastures in Vallunga. Nature awakes from its deep winter sleep, it is covered with a white, pink and purplish sea of crocus, violets and soldanelle, while the meadows and forests are dressed in a bright green. Already in May, breathing in the pleasant fresh mountain air, we can practice a sport in considerable great growth - trail running, a healthy and enjoyable activity which allows us to run on the most scenic paths

An ocean of corollas in technicolor

bordered by magnificent colours galore.This is the best time to watch the animals awaken from hibernation or to organise trips to discover the mountain herbs and plants, many of which (such as arnica) have healing properties or are used to prepare cakes and herbal teas.

The Lord of the Valley In June, the ideal month for road cycling, there is an explosion of alpine flowers: primroses, gentians, orchids, rhododendrons, and five-leafed Dolomites and edelweiss begin to peep out.

In this photo, you can admire the profile of the Sassolungo, austere lord of Val Gardena, of which it is the symbolic peak. At 3181 metres, it is the highest in the valley. It‘s a strong mountain, with a strong personality, a real dolomitic totem. To underline its majesty, Churchill called it „a rocky sailing iceberg“.

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Trail running

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Birgit Stuffer is a very busy hotelier, but also an experienced and enthusiastic trail runner. „I like this sport because it is easy to practice, does not require a lot of equipment and can be done almost anywhere at any time. It has a series of positive effects on the body, but also and above all on the mind“.

Trail running is becoming increasingly fashionable and is a specialty of running on foot, to be practised along the many paths, immersed in an unspoilt natural habitat that can be desert, hill, mountain, plain. In general, compared to traditional road running, there are at times significant differences in level of terrain to overcome and races can take place over rather long distances. „In Val Gardena we have many beautiful routes, but the most beautiful is surely the tour of the Sassolungo massif. The enchanting landscape and the breathtaking view make one completely forget the physical effort and fill one’s heart with a sense of profound happiness,“ says Birgit, who shares the passion with her husband and also with her children, who have recently been drawn to this discipline. „I started when I was 12 years old: after taking part in the school cross-country running championships I was contacted by the sports association of my town, they asking me if I wanted to train with them”. In her youth she specialised in middle distance races (800 m, 1500 m and 3000 m) and cross-country races, and she won several provincial and regional races. For various reasons at the age of 19 she stopped training, but then, after a decade off, she regained her old passion. Recently she has achieved excellent results in important international competitions. In 2016 she won the Südtirol Sky Marathon and in 2017 the Eilat Desert Marathon. „I do most of my training on my own, it‘s not so easy to find someone who has time like me and who runs more or less at the same pace”. Monte Pana, where she lives and works (she owns the Hotel Cendevaves), is one of the most beautiful places for training.

At an altitude of 1,650 metres there is an ideal climate: in summer the air is not stuffy and there are no pollen problems, and then the plateau is always sunny. The reduced percentage of oxygen in the air stimulates the production of red blood cells, the supply of oxygen to the muscles increases, the blood vessels dilate and this results in an enhanced sporting performance. In Val Gardena we are spoilt for choice: apart from the ring of Sassolungo (17 km, difficult, with an altitude difference of 1000 metres), you can try the Vallunga (21.5 km, difficult, with an altitude difference of 635 m), the Anello Saltria (12 km, medium, an altitude difference of 380 m), the Anello Palusch (5 km,

„In Val Gardena we have many beautiful routes, but the most beautiful is the tour of the Sassolungo massif. The enchanting landscape in which this trail takes place and the breathtaking panorama make you completely forget your physical effort and the experience fills your heart with a deep happiness.

When I run, I can get away from everyday life and enter my own world. The race gives me a lot of satisfaction. I couldn‘t live without running.”

easy, an altitude difference of 155 m), the Vecchia Ferrovia (16.4 km, medium, an altitude difference of 440 m). „The most important and fascinating trail running competition is the Dolomites SASLONG Half Marathon, which takes place every year at the beginning of June,“ says Birgit.

This race takes place in a spectacular setting: the majestic Sassolungo massif, the Sella Group, the Sciliar and the Alpe di Suisi plateau are within easy reach. The route is 100% asphalt-free and takes place 50% on paths and 50% on dirt/gravel/rock trails between an altitude of 1624 and 2363 m above sea level, and passes through five municipalities and two provinces. A wonderful spectacle for fans too!

1 The Sassolungo is reflected in a small lake on Monte Pana; 2 Monte Pana is one of the favourite locations for trail runners; 3 Flat and well-signposted paths are one of the features of Monte Pana; 4 Trail running at Passo Sella, in the background: the Sassolungo Group; 5 Birgit Stuffer dejeset 17

Winter opening

in Val Gardena

As light as lace, the snow has settled gently on the branches of the fir trees while the excursionists go up in single file, in silence, step by step on the white mantle, thanks to the „snowshoes“. All around one sees an array of spires, pinnacles, gorges and towers, giving to the skyline a magical sense of wonder. It is this natural architecture of unsurpassed beauty that serves as a stage for many outdoor activities: from Alpine skiing to Nordic skiing, from snowshoeing to ski mountaineering, from fat biking to tobogganing. In Val Gardena - defined, not by chance, as the romantic „Christmas

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Valley“ of the Dolomites - the mountains in winter can be experienced in many ways. The Sellaronda Ski Tour, the fourpass tour around the Sella Group, is legendary all over the world. But there are also legendary slopes such as Saslong (used for the 1970 World Championships), Pela (a real black for experts only) and La Longia (the longest run in South Tyrol). In Val Gardena you are also at the international crossroads of great skiing events and you can see top level races, such as the FIS Ski World Cup and the Sellaronda Ski Marathon. But you can also become the protagonist of an im-

portant competition, thanks to the Südtirol Gardenissima.

And when in the afternoon you take off your ski suit or undo your snowshoes, you can indulge in „pampering“ moments in some of the best wellness centres in the Alps, offering a rich menu of treatments and massages inspired by local and international traditions. For those who are never fed up with snow and want to experience it at night, there are the Special Alpine Nights and many activities after sunset, such as tobogganing or cross-country skiing under the full moon at Monte Pana. And then...mulled wine for everyone!

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Skiing in Val Gardena

Testimonial: Manuel Runggaldier What makes Val Gardena so special as a ski destination? Manuel Runggaldier, Director of the Ski and Snowboard School of S. Cristina, explains: „First of all, it is located in the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the slopes cross

incredible scenery, such as, for example, the City of Stones. It is also directly connected with the famous Sellaronda ski tour“.

Val Gardena offers 175 km of slopes, always impeccably maintained and served by more than eighty lifts.

“In Val Gardena you can ski well until the end of the season: the slopes are impeccably groomed and remain in excellent condition until the beginning of April“, emphasises Manuel. „We are also connected to the 1200 km of slopes of the Dolomiti Superski, the largest ski carousel in the world, which offers 450 lifts in 12 ski areas that can be accessed with a single ski pass.

Among the slopes of Val Gardena not to be missed are the „mythical“ historical slopes where the World Cup is held, such as the Saslong, the Cir slope on the Dantercepies (Gardena Pass, used as a downhill for the women of the World Ski Championships in 1970), the slope of Ciampinoi (also used for the World Championships). As you descend from the 2254 metres of the Ciampinoi along the Saslong A or Saslong B, to the west you can see the flat peak and the sharp „tooth“ of Sciliar, Alpe di Siusi, the rooftops of Ortisei and Resciesa. To the north you can admire the Odle and, further down, S. Cristina. Towards the east you can see Passo Gardena with the Sella Group and Selva. Starting from Ciampinoi, on the other hand, you can ski on the most beautiful slopes of eastern Val Gardena and reach Passo Sella. The Ciampinoi rises, covered by pines, south of Selva, and is dominated by the Sassolungo. „Personally - adds Manuel - I love La Longia very much, the sunny track that starts on the Seceda and leads to Ortisei, because it starts from the highest point (2500 meters), allows you to cover a drop of 1250 meters and also, with its 10,5 km, is the

longest in South Tyrol. Endless fun!” The two slopes of Mont Seura, red and black, are not very frequented and offer skiing in peace.

On the sunny side of the Col Raiser there are relatively simple slopes, such as the blue Col Raiser slope, but also the famous Pela, a black slope for super experts. Every year the Gardenissima is held here, a race on the route from the top of the Seceda through Col Raiser to S. Cristina. „In addition to the famous Sellaronda (the Four Passes tour around the Sella, which covers a total distance of 44 km, of which 26 km are slopes), try the Val Gardena Ronda, the Val Gardena ski tour (including Alpe di Siusi): there are about 30 km of slopes with 5 thousand metres of elevation gain, to be covered in about six hours: wonderful!

If you want to learn to ski, snowboard or simply improve your style, you can count on six ski schools: two in Ortisei, one in S. Cristina and three in Selva.

In Val Gardena you will also find parks for snowboarders: one at Alpe di Siusi, well known for its World Cup jumping competitions, a Funpark at Ciampinoi (with easy jumps), while the Piz Sella offers two: one for experts and one for beginners.

1 Col Raiser run; 2 Descent along the ‘City of Stones’; 3 Skifun on Dantercepies; 4 The splendid scenery of the Col Raiser; 5 Manuel Runggaldier descends from the Paradiso run on the Piz Sella, in the background: the Sassolungo.

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Winter safari Immerse yourself in the white mantra of the snow-covered Dolomites, and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of South Tyrol in winter. Even if you do not ski downhill and you simply want to have a chill but active holiday we have

both the location and the solution for you. Where? How? You just have to go on a real „winter safari“, exploring Val Gardena with cross-country skis, or with snowshoes or on a sledge.

On cross-country skis we will glide along the tracks between the huts of Monte Pana, in the muffled silence of firs laden with snow. The Monte Pana Cross-Country Centre is the jewel in the crown of Nordic skiing in Val Gardena: here we can have fun on over 30 km of wellmarked slopes: two blue, two red and one black. The 8 km route to the Palusc meadow leads through the coniferous forest and is also suitable for less experienced cross-country skiers. But even the most demanding will find exciting slopes, full of ascents and steep descents.

There are several possibilities to combine the routes and also ski to Alpe di Siusi, taking a challenging track of 8 km, suitable for the most skillful (beginners can reach it by skibus). The tracks of Monte Pana and Alpe di Siusi (which offers 80 km of cross-country tracks of all levels with many possibilities to stop and eat in the huts) belong to Dolomiti Nordicski, the largest cross-country skiing

carousel in Europe, which features over 1,300 km of tracks distributed in eleven areas. The ideal place if you are looking for a natural habitat for snowshoeing is the Puez-Odle, Nature Park nestled between Val Gardena, Alta Badia and Val di Funes. One of the most beautiful routes leads from Col Raiser to Rifugio Firenze. Finally, don‘t miss the thrill of long toboggan runs on dedicated slopes. Starting from Ortisei you can go up to the Chalet Resciesa by funicular. The route itself is 6 km long and winds through the pine forest, leading to the middle station. From here you can then go up again and repeat as you wish. Alpe di Siusi, which can be reached from Ortisei with the Mont Sëuc lift, also offers various possibilities for tobogganing. For example, from the Mahlknecht hut to Saltria there is a 4 km long track, as well as from the Williams hut to Saltria. From Monte Piz you can go down the old trade road to Bulla, a small hamlet of Ortisei.

1 Snowshoeing on the path that leads to Rifugio Firenze, in the Puez-Odle Park; 2 Icefall along the La Longia runway; 3 Crosscountry skiing on Monte Pana; 4 Tobogganing on the Resciesa run. vinttrëi 23

December

January

NEW YEAR’S EVE IN VAL GARDENA: 31.12.2019 - 02.01.2020 Numerous New Year’s Eve events

SNOW SCULPTURE COMPETITION - 23RD EDITION OF THE SNOW SCULPTURE COMPETITION IN SELVA VAL GARDENA 27.12.-30.12.2019

CHRISTMAS IN VAL GARDENA: 29.11.2019 - 06.01.2020 Christmas markets in a contemplative atmosphere in all three Val Gardena Villages

WEEKLY TORCHLIT RUNS AND SKI SHOWS with the ski schools of Val Gardena throughout winter

FIS SKI WORLD CUP: 20.-21.12.2019 Two races on the famous Saslong slope with its ‘camel humps’

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February

March

April

GARDENISSIMA AFTER RACE PARTY: 04.04.2020 Big after race party in Selva

ROCK THE DOLOMITES: 21.03. - 29.03.2020 Winter music festival in the Dolomites

SELLARONDA SKIMARATHON: 27.03.2020 Ski touring marathon on the four passes

SÜDTIROL GARDENISSIMA: 04.04.2020 The world’s longest giant slalom with 650 participants

ICE SCULPTURES 13.01. – 18.01.2020 Realization and exhibition in the centre of Ortisei Village

SÜDTIROL GARDENISSIMA KIDS: 05.04.2020 A fun parallel slalom for kids

CARNIVAL IN VAL GARDENA: 20.02.20 – 25.02.2020 Carnival bonanza with local traditions SPRING RACE PARTY: 28.03.2020 Fun ski race from Seceda to the centre of Ortisei village

Winter Highlights

All events in the updated Val Gardena calendar

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Our ski schools and ski pass prices

ORTISEI

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SNOWBOARD- UND SKISCHULE 2000

SKI- UND SNOWBOARDSCHULE SASLONG

Str. Mëisules 290 & 252/B· I-39048 Wolkenstein Tel. +39 / 04 71 / 77 31 25 - 04 71 / 79 52 55 Fax +39 / 04 71 / 77 32 83 · info@skischool2000.com www.scuolasci-selva.it

Str. Rezia 10 + 26 I-39046 St. Ulrich Tel. +39 / 04 71 / 78 62 58 · Fax +39 / 04 71 / 78 94 57 info@skisaslong.com · www.skisaslong.com

26 vintsies

Design: KATIUSCIA-GRAPHIC.com

SANTA CRISTINA

Center Iman T +39 0471 792045 www.santacristinaski.com

SELVA

Str. Dantercëpies 4 T +39 0471 795156 www.scuolasciselva.com

Ski pass | Val Gardena-Alpe di Siusi 80 LIFTS, 175 KILOMETRES OF SLOPES | WINTER SEASON 2019/2020 | 30.11.2019 - 14.04.2020 VAL GARDENA SUPERPREMIÈRE 4=3 30.11.2019 - 21.12.2019

SEASON: 07.01.2020 - 01.02.2020

22.03.2020 - 14.04.2020

Days

Adults

Juniors born after 30.11.2003

Seniors born before 30.11.1954

PEAK SEASON: 22.12.2019 - 06.01.2020

02.02.2020 - 21.03.2020

Days

Adults

Juniors born after 30.11.2003

Seniors born before 30.11.1954

Days

Adults

Juniors born after 30.11.2003

Seniors born before 30.11.1954

1

€ 46,00

€ 32,00

€ 41,00

1

€ 51,00

€ 36,00

€ 46,00

1

€ 57,00

€ 40,00

€ 51,00

2

€ 91,00

€ 64,00

€ 82,00

2

€ 102,00

€ 72,00

€ 92,00

2

€ 114,00

€ 79,00

€ 102,00

3

€ 132,00

€ 92,00

€ 119,00

3

€ 149,00

€ 104,00

€ 134,00

3

€ 165,00

€ 116,00

€ 149,00

4

€ 169,00

€ 118,00

€ 152,00

4

€ 190,00

€ 133,00

€ 171,00

4

€ 211,00

€ 148,00

€ 190,00

5

€ 202,00

€ 142,00

€ 182,00

5

€ 228,00

€ 159,00

€ 205,00

5

€ 253,00

€ 177,00

€ 228,00

6

€ 232,00

€ 163,00

€ 209,00

6

€ 261,00

€ 183,00

€ 235,00

6

€ 290,00

€ 203,00

€ 261,00

Ski pass | Dolomiti Superski 450 LIFTS, 1.200 KILOMETRES OF SLOPES | WINTER SEASON 2019/2020 | 30.11.2019 - END OF SEASON DOLOMITI SUPERPREMIÈRE 4=3 30.11.2019 - 21.12.2019

SEASON: 07.01.2020 - 01.02.2020

22.03.2020 - END OF SEASON

PEAK SEASON: 22.12.2019 - 06.01.2020

02.02.2020 - 21.03.2020

Days

Adults

Juniors born after 30.11.2003

Seniors born before 30.11.1954

Days

Adults

Juniors born after 30.11.2003

Seniors born before 30.11.1954

Days

Adults

Juniors born after 30.11.2003

Seniors born before 30.11.1954

1

€ 50,00

€ 35,00

€ 45,00

1

€ 56,00

€ 39,00

€ 50,00

1

€ 62,00

€ 43,00

€ 56,00

2

€ 98,00

€ 69,00

€ 88,00

2

€ 110,00

€ 77,00

€ 99,00

2

€ 122,00

€ 86,00

€ 110,00

3

€ 142,00

€ 100,00

€ 128,00

3

€ 160,00

€ 112,00

€ 144,00

3

€ 178,00

€ 125,00

€ 160,00

4

€ 182,00

€ 127,00

€ 164,00

4

€ 205,00

€ 143,00

€ 184,00

4

€ 228,00

€ 159,00

€ 205,00

5

€ 218,00

€ 153,00

€ 196,00

5

€ 245,00

€ 172,00

€ 221,00

5

€ 273,00

€ 191,00

€ 245,00

6

€ 250,00

€ 175,00

€ 225,00

6

€ 282,00

€ 197,00

€ 254,00

6

€ 313,00

€ 219,00

€ 282,00

In addition: season tickets | choice ticket: 10 day ski pass spread over 14 days’ holiday or 5 day ski pass spread over 6 days’ holiday | Dolomiti Superski choice season ticket: 8 day ski pass throughout the whole season | transferable ski pass valid for several days for families with children below the age of 3 | prepaid ticket | single tickets/multi journey tickets | children up to the age of 8 get a free ski pass (except season passes), if the accompanying person buys a ski pass for the same period. | Where can you buy your ski pass? In the branches of the Cassa di Risparmio in S. Cristina and Ortisei, at the gondola Ciampinoi in Selva and at the valley station of the Val Gardena Ronda Express. Further info and reduction at www.valgardena.it Skiing cannot be guaranteed on all facilities from beginning to end of season.

The prices of ski passes can be subject to alteration due to exceptional changes in taxation, exchange rates or social provisions.

SKISCHOOL

SKISCHOOL

SKISCHOOL

Val Gardena

Val Gardena

Val Gardena

ORTISEI

S.CRISTINA

SELVA

www.scuole-sci.com vintset 27

Gherdëina ORTISEI The pale blue, pink and green houses in the village are painted with Baroque frescoes, images of saints (from St. Christopher, patron saint of travellers to St. Wendelin, patron saint of herdsmen) and of inhabitants from the valley dressed in traditional Ladin costumes, Renaissance sundials and Art Nouveau murals depicting local craftsmen, such as the wood carver, blacksmith, baker and tinsmith going about their daily work. Ortisei with its large pedestrian area full of boutiques, wine bars, typical cafés and charming hotels is a unique jewel, the “parlour” as it were of Val Gardena. Located at an altitude of 1,236 m and the main village in Val Gardena, Ortisei is a renowned summer and winter tourist resort, a true haven for hikers, cyclists, mountaineers, skiers, nature lovers and gastronomes too, due to its excellent restaurants. It has a long tradition as a market town and is renowned worldwide for its wooden sculptures.

S. CRISTINA This pretty village is the smallest in the valley. Thanks to its central location it is the ideal starting point for exciting hikes in the Puez-Odle Nature Park and attractive walks to Monte Pana - an oasis of relaxation for the whole family in summer and an idyllic place for adventurous skiing in winter, thanks to the direct access available to the Sellaronda.

S. Cristina has a very lively cultural life and a longstanding tradition of associations. There has been a music band since 1856, a choir since 1972 and numerous associations that animate the numerous festivities, ranging from Christmas markets to farmers’ markets, enjoyed both by locals and holidaymakers alike.

Not to be missed is the walk to the new UNESCO Dolomites viewpoint Mastlé, the visit to the Church of S. Cristina, the oldest in the valley, with its high altar by the famous dynasty of local artists, the Vinazer. And then again, a ‘must’ is a photo shoot of Castel Gardena, an imposing Renaissance-style hunting lodge close to the woods, which in winter is the backdrop for the World Cup ski races.

SELVA VAL GARDENA It is the highest village in the valley and is located just below the Sella massif, between the imposing mountains of the Sassolungo and the Puez Group. In winter, covered with white snow, it is perfect for skiing in all its variations, thanks to the connection with the famous Sellaronda, the largest ski carousel in the world. This rich programme of activities for adults and children turns into hiking, climbing, cycling and mountain biking in the summer. Selva is also the starting point for the panoramic Sellaronda MTB Tour. In addition to sport, there is all the vigour of Ladin culture to be experienced in the events that take place during every month of the year. Ladin hospitality is special too, whether it be in one of the deluxe hotels, with the luxury of a Spa, or simple and welcoming mountain huts and farmsteads. The local cuisine is exceptional and is based on traditional and creative dishes, prepared with local ingredients and always a touch of tender loving care.

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DIRECT BOOKING PAYS www.valgardena.it

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Summer in the heart of Ladin tradition

The sensation of the Val Gardena summer is summed up in a bucolic image that anyone who goes along the paths often encounters as a „sound“ postcard: the ringing of the cow bells as the cows themselves lazily graze on the pastures. To immerse yourself completely in the beauty of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage, is a real joy and in summer you can go on beautiful treks of one or more days and choose any level of difficulty. Val Gardena offers 600 km of well-maintained and well-marked hiking trails and 14 lifts to reach those at high altitude. One of the most beautiful trekking itineraries is the panoramic path around the Sassolungo Group, which starts from the Sella Pass and crosses the surreal scenery of the „City of Stones“, where gigantic erratic boulders emerge from the grass, surmounted here and there by pine trees (endemic firs), whose roots embrace the rocks. If you want a truly unforgettable experience of several days, set off for the excursion known as the Curona de Gherdëina, where you cross all the Dolomite groups that crown Val Gardena.

Mountain biking has also grown a lot in recent years: the valley is a real paradise and offers the opportunity to have

fun on about 600 km of trails. Between Ortisei, S. Cristina and Selva you can choose from twenty-two excursions, all doable in one day. Val Gardena is also the only „Bike Approved Area“ in South Tyrol.

You can also have fun in the easy bike parks of Dantercepies and Piz Seteur or in the more challenging Freeride Park of Ciampinoi. In summer the Sella can also be circumnavigated by mountain bike following the splendid (and challenging) circuit of the Sellaronda MTB Track Tour. Obviously, you can also ride around the group on racing bikes, on the main asphalted roads of the Quattro Passi (Passo Gardena, Passo Campolongo, Passo Pordoi and Passo Sella), covering about sixty kilometres (with about two thousand metres of altitude difference) along the legendary cycling ascents of the Giro d‘Italia race.

From the Sella Pass, opposite the Sella Towers, stands the Sassolungo, austere lord of Val Gardena, of which it is the symbolic peak. A „masculine“ mountain, with a powerful personality that changes as the light, the seasons and the weather change. Summer in Val Gardena is really full of surprises!

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TREKKING: Curona de Gherdëina

Enjoying the summer in South Tyrol means walking along the most spectacular paths and really immersing oneself in mountain life. The Curona de Gherdëina is a spectacular five-day

circular route, during which we cross the most beautiful Dolomite groups that crown Val Gardena: Sella, Sassolungo, Alpe di Siusi, Resciesa, Seceda and Puez-Odle.

We start from Passo Gardena (2,121m) on path 666 to Sella, it lined with juniper bushes, and boasting purple corollas of heather, blue of the gentians, fuchsia of the rhododendron.

In the west we can admire Val Gardena, to the east Alta Badia, to the south Sella, to the north Cime Cir of the Puez-Odle group. The mule track continues towards a ravine leading to Val Setus, and then reaches an easy via ferrata ropeway.

We then climb up to the scree crater of the Sella (2,610m), from where we reach Rifugio Pisciadù, overlooking Lec du Pisciadù, between Cima Pisciadù and Sas da Lec. We cross the bridge and climb the path that rises to the first cliffs of Cima Pisciadù. We cross the Passo di Tita (2,912m) and from here we continue on the plateau “delle Mesule”. The ups and downs of the 666 lead us to Rifugio Boè, where the view of Piz Boè (3,152 m) is well worth the effort.

The second day we continue to Val Lasties, following the course of the Ruf de Antermont. The valley cuts through the Sella like a canyon, with idyllic views and vertical walls. The high altitude of the basin (1,900-2,953m) justifies the absence of trees. The path below the Piz Ciavazes leads us to Sella Pass (2,244m). The Forcella del Sassolungo lift takes us to the Toni Demetz mountain hut. The Sella Towers and the Marmolada rise around it.

On the third day we wind down from the Forcella to the Dantersasc scree. To cross Alpe di Siusi, we take the path under Sassopiatto, towards Piza da Uridl (2,101m). In the midst of

the rural scenery of the Sciliar, we divert towards the “Mont Sëuc” lift for Ortisei.

The fourth stage involves reaching Resciesa (2,093m) and the Brogles Hut from where you get to the Pana Scharte and to Seceda. The view is thrilling, with Fermeda piccola, Sas Rigais, Vallone di Cisles and Stevia all clear. We go down through the pastures, head to Malga Pieralongia, and from here in an hour we are at the Firenze mountain hut (2,037 m).

The next day we continue along a stone road to Alpe Cisles.

Trail 2 takes us to Forces de Siëles (2,505m). Once we have crossed the saddle, we can see green pastures and the Sassongher. The trail leads over the grassy expanse of Munt de Puez and reaches Puez Refuge (2,475m) in a wild depression, among “islands” of boulders. We cut through the lunar plateau of Puez towards the Forcella de Ciampëi (2,366m). In the basin of Lake Crespëina, the route is flat and then rises to the Forcella de Crespëina (2,528m). We continue through debris to Forcella Cir (2,469m), which fnally takes us to the idyllic Passo Gardena, walking with its ups and downs, forks, pinnacles and mountain pastures.

1 Departure from Passo Gardena; 2 Signposts along the Alta Via dei Gardenesi; 3 On the Forcella del Sassolungo; 4 View of Lake Pisciadù from Trail 666; 5 The Cima Pisciadù and Lake Pisciadù. trënttrëi 33

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Hinein ins Abenteuer!

A family summer Vallunga - one of the most evocative natural sites in Val Gardena, to be visited with an easy two or three-hour walk from Selva. It winds like a canyon towards the peaks of the PuezOdle Nature Park. It is a perfect place to spend a day outdoors

with the whole family, including games in the stream, runs in the woods, picnics on the grass. Children will also love the traditional style playground of the Baita Ciampac, with wooden horses, slides and swings.

Vallunga is a small family-friendly dream come true. Located in Selva and its hinterland, it offers an easy three-hour walk (round trip), perfect for enjoying the majestic scenery of the Dolomites without fatigue. On the left we can admire the view of the Stevia massif and the steep walls of the Puez Group, while on the right rise Col Turond and the mountains of Val de Chedul. At the beginning of the walk, just after the car park, there are the ruins of Wolkenstein Castle, rising under the Stevia ramparts. Built in the twelfth century in a crevasse, it was a primitive manor house, but in its troubled history has hosted important dynasties. Oswald von Wolkenstein, to whose family it has belonged since the 14th century, was one of the most important troubadours and composers of the Middle Ages. A man of the world, a great traveller always in search of adventure, he often stayed here in the summer months. We pass the chapel of San Silvestro and walk among larches and stone pines to slowly gain altitude. When the valley narrows, the vegetation gives way to thickets of mountain pines. Once we have reached the pastures, the valley opens again, accompany-

ing us to the edge of sheer walls. For the more daring and trained, the arduous climb up a zigzag path to the bottom of the valley begins, allowing you to overcome the 600 m difference in height up to the Forcella de Ciampac. At the foot of the ParĂŤi de Ciampac there is a wooden monument dedicated to the great alpine climber Emilio Comici.

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1 An easy and well-marked trail leads through the Vallunga valley, for the joy of young and not so young alike; 2 Wooden shapes 3 The traditional swings of the Baita Ciampac; 4 The shallow stream is an ideal playground for children; 5 A nice ice cream after the walk! 6 Picnics with bacon, black bread and Tyrolean cheeses; 7 The wood made horses of the Baita Ciampac. trĂŤntcinch 35

June

Aug

July

DOLOMITES SASLONG HALF MARATHON 06.06.2020 Running around the Sassolungo Group

GHERDËINA CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL: JULY 2020 Brewers from TrentinoAlto Adige present their own artisan beers in Selva Val Gardena

WEEKLY FARMER AND CRAFTSMAN MARKET in July and August in S. Cristina

LONG SUMMER NIGHTS AND APERITIFS in July and August in the traffic-free area of Ortisei HERO SÜDTIROL DOLOMITES: 20.06.2020 The hardest MTB marathon in Europe, with an elevation difference of 4.500 metres

SELLARONDA BIKE DAY: 27.06.2020 Car-free day around the Sella Group, only open to bikers

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SËIRA DL VIN: 10.07.2020 Wine-tasting on the red carpet in S. Cristina

VAL GARDENA FOLKLORE FESTIVAL IN VAL GARDENA: AUGUST 2020 The biggest folklore festival of the valley with a procession of traditional costumes

gust

September

October

UNIKA: 03.09.-06.09.2020 Large exhibition of Val Gardena’s sculptures and art BIENNALE GHERDËINA throughout summer in the traffic-free area of Ortisei

ITF WOMEN’S TOURNAMENT 15.000 $ OCTOBER 2020 MEN’S TOURNAMENT CHALLENGER 70 NOVEMBER 2020

DOLOMITES SUMMER MARKET: AUGUST 2020 with Strudel & Dumpling Festival in Selva Val Gardena

SEPTEMBER 2020 Ladin hiking weeks in Selva Val Gardena and Ladin culture weeks in S. Cristina

Summer Highlights

All events in the updated Val Gardena calendar

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Burning Dolomites

In the air you can smell roasted chestnuts, new wine, freshly baked strudel. You can hear the notes of the accordion and the fun from festivals that celebrate the typical products and transhumance, the moment when the animals return from their alpine grazing. However, autumn in Val Gardena is above all Burning Dolomites, which refers both to the flamboyant spectacle of the colours of the foliage (with the vivid contribution of larches, birches, wild cherries, sorbs...) which paints the woods yellow, red and orange, and to the Enrosadira, with the Dolomites taking on reddish tones, especially at dawn and sunset. It is a phenomenon which in this autumn season is even more accentuated by the fresher and more crystalline air. Accompanied by local guides, who will take you to the sunset on the SĂŤurasas ter-

race, you can admire right through until the beginning of November, unforgettable scenarios and an extended view over the Sella Group, the Sassolungo and the Alpe di Siusi. Alternatively there is the path that leads from Stevia to Alpe Juac. The light and temperature of this season are also ideal for climbing, Nordic walking, running, horseback riding or cycling, both on road and mountain biking, perhaps along the Sentiero del Trenino (the old railway line) or, for the fitter, the technical trails at high altitudes. In this season, the mountain reveals its slower side. There are not the great visitor numbers of summer tourism, and many hotels propose Autumn Weeks, offers to enjoy nature to the full before the arrival of snow and the consequent skiing season.

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The path of the little train Autumn, with its flaming colours, makes for a fairy-tale ride on the Sentiero del Trenino (Train Path), an easy cycle/pedestrian itinerary of about ten kilometres that links Ortisei to Selva, passing through S. Cristina. Here and therealong the path you can stop and admire the Dolomite peaks or “recharge your batteries” while enjoying a strudel.

To dive into the enchantment of the foliage, we pedal along the Sentiero del Trenino (the old railway line), flanked by the orange of the birches, the red fire of the wild cherries and the sorb, the bright yellow of the maple leaves. Higher up, on the northern flank of S. Cristina, the gold of the larches of Monte Pana stands out. This palette of shades is “guarded” by the peaks that can be admired along the way, such as the Sassolungo (the highest in the valley: 3181 m.), the Sella Group, the Cir and Stevia of the Puez-Odle Group. The cycle/pedestrian path was created from the Ortisei-Selva section of the railway that until the 1960s connected Chiusa with Alta Val Gardena. It is a protected track, arrives at Plan (Selva), passing through S. Cristina, and offers a slow journey full of “wow moments”. Starting from Ortisei, on the Luis Trenker promenade, we admire the old locomotive with its chimney. After wandering around the old town, we leave behind the onion-shaped bell tower of the Church of Sant’Ulrico and take the path, cycling to a playground where stands the monument to Luis Trenker (1892-1990), mountaineer, writer, actor and filmmaker from Val Gardena.

The Ferata de Gherdëina was built by the Austrian imperial army during the First World War to transport war material to and from the front. After the First World War, the train began to operate as a freight and passenger service and became a significant logisti-

cal resource, thanks to the trade in wood carvings and tourism in the Dolomites. Despite the increase in visitors, the line was not updated, became obsolete and ended its activity in 1960, replaced by buses. On the Chiusa-Ortisei section, the track served in 1969 to pave the way for improved access ahead of the 1970 World Ski Championships. From Ortisei to Selva, the Ferata has reinvented itself as a scenic cycle path, with benches and signs illustrating the history of the train and beautiful period images.

A series of ups and downs leads us to S. Cristina, surrounded by opulent meadows. We reach the small square of the church of S. Cristina and Sant’Antonio Abate. Towards Selva you gain more quota. In Ruacia, a wooden model of Castel Gardena has been built on the fence, visible on the left bank of Rio Gardena.

The Fischburg was built between 1622 and 1641 as a hunting and fishing residence by Engelhard Dietrich von Wolkenstein-Trostburg. In the 19th century Count Leopold von Wolkenstein-Trostburg donated it to the municipality of S. Cristina and in 1926 it was sold to Baron Carlo Franchetti, who beautifully restored it. We are now close to Selva: in the meadows stand out white farmsteads with elaborate decorations, and barns in old wood, “toasted” by the sun. The Sella Group, which at sunset is tinged with thousands of copper shades, giants over Selva. In Ladin this phenomenon is called nrosadura (enrosadira), and kidnaps us with its poetry of light.

1 The old locomotive with the chimney has become a monument; 2 The square of the church of S. Cristina and Sant’Antonio Abate in S. Cristina; 3 Just before Selva, a sculpture inspired by the traveller frames the landscape; 4 One of the explanatory signs with period photos along the Ferata de Gherdëina; 5 The heart of Ortisei, the starting point of our ride. carantun 41

Offers Holidays in Val Gardena mean family fun for all the family.

The whole year. After all, aren’t holidays the best time of the year? And in Val Gardena, you can go on holidays whenever you want. And finally enjoy life.

Find an overview of the most interesting special offers for our guests at participating establishments. The list should give you an idea of what to look forward to and when to book your dream holiday!

Val Gardena Super Première:

Single & Kids:

Between 29 November and 21 December 2019. One, two, three, four, and it’s take-off! Namely, you can book 4 nights, 4 daily ski passes and 4 days of ski equipment rental for the price of 3! First valid ski pass day: 30.11.2019.

While the mountains have meant everything to us in Val Gardena since the immemorial, that doesn’t mean we`re stuck in the past. In summer, from the start of the season until end of July and from the end of August until the end of September we also offer great special offers for single parents with children in a double room.

Fis Ski World Cup Val Gardena: At the speed of light! If you want to experience the thrill of pure speed and support the best skiers out there, choose our World Cup Package between 20 and 22 December 2019. Entrance to the race and the Dolomiti Superski ski pass for a discounted price.

Val Gardena Super Sun: Pack your ski suit, and we’ll help your wallet feel a bit heavier: from 21 March 2020 to 14 April 2020, get a free day on us when booking for 6 days (6+1 formula)! First valid ski pass day: 22.03.2020.

Val Gardena Family Special: We’ve also thought about our dearest, youngest guests. From 21 March 2020 to 14 April 2020 to the end of the season participating venues will secure special conditions for children when it comes to booking, purchasing ski passes, renting equipment and at the ski school.

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Val Gardena Active 2020: Val Gardena Active means a lot of action and fun. And what’s so good about this diverse weekly programme is that the guests of participating establishments can choose from many interesting activities for free or for a discounted price.

Val Gardena Children’s weeks: Pointing is usually considered rude but it won’t be when you point to this amazing offer: Children pay NOTHING! Between 6 and 26 June 2020 make the most of special offers and discounts when going on holiday with your kids. Free accommodation (in an extra bed in the parent’s room) if the kids are under 8 years old!

Val Gardena on the web REALTIME WEATHER WEBCAMS

PARTNER WEBSITES

Val Gardena has now more than 25 livecams, panocams and nightcams, which are unique in the Alps and transmit weather conditions and panoramic views in real time. www.valgardena.it/livecam www.dolomitesalpine.it

www.mtb-dolomites.com

www.sellarondabikeday.com

www.gardenissima.eu

VALGARDENA.IT IS MOBILE Our responsive website can be easily viewed and used on all mobile devices.

FREE WIFI Free wifi hotspots Selva Val Gardena: hotspot in Nives Square and at the Tourism Association Office.

Ortisei: hotspots in S. Antonio Square, in the pedestrian area, in Church Square and on a stretch of the Luis Trenker walk.

www.valgardena-active.com

www.transfertovalgardena.com

VAL GARDENA ONLINE SHOP Visit our online shop where you can easily view and buy many interesting articles regarding Val Gardena, such as the new excursion maps, posters etc. shop.valgardena.it

BOOKING DIRECTLY OFFERS MANY ADVANTAGES Val Gardena offers you an avantgarde room availability system.

Booking directly your accommodation which is bookable online at valgardena.it, offers many advantages.

NEWSLETTER

VAL GARDENA GUESTINFO APP

Do you wish to receive the latest news and information regarding events in Val Gardena?

Then subscribe to our free newsletter.

Get the new Val Gardena Guestinfo APP and be always up to date with 360° local information about weather, events, webcams and much more, for a unique time in Val Gardena!

SOCIAL NETWORKS Val Gardena is present in all the most important social networks become our fan and follower and stay updated!

IOS

ANDROID

www.instagram.com/dolomitesvalgardena www.facebook.com/VGardena

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A great beauty to defend Column by Fabrizia Postiglione

„Nature, strong and wild, is like an ancient legend carved in snow and ice, which sometimes presents itself as tender and fragile as a poem. But it is also like the coldest steel that reflects the play of colors of sunlight,“ said Fidtjof Nansen, Norwegian explorer, scientist and diplomat, Nobel Peace Prize winner in 1922.

These words come to mind when one admires the natural set of Dolomite „spires“ of Val Gardena, which emerge as sea cliffs from the flowering meadows (in summer) or from the silent snowpack (in winter). Over the centuries, man has added his „crib“ to the natural setting, made up of gothic churches with pointed bell-towers like pencils, isolated farmsteads among the mountain pastures, cows lazing in the sun, medieval stone castles and villages with pastel coloured houses that, during the summer, display cascades of purple or fuchsia flowers from the balconies.

I was born on the sea, in a beautiful and problematic city in Southern Italy, and for passion and profession I was a globetrotter for almost thirty years, travelling to the four corners of the planet to then tell my story with articles and images. I am a restless modern day nomad and have lived in fascinating cities such as Rio, Miami, Rome and New York.

I love the sea because it‘s my „element“ from birth, but I also have an unbridled passion for the Dolomites, which I like to explore on foot - trekking for several days to get away from it all - or pedalling my racing bike, dreaming of being at the Giro d‘Italia.

Maybe because the Pale Mountains have this „memo44 carantcater

ry of the sea“... Who knows! Maybe it is because they are unique, they transform and burn at sunset in what is known as the enrosadira.

I love Val Gardena because it is the quintessence of the Dolomite beauty combined with the wise hand of man, its traditions, its Ladin culture, its history. I love this valley in every season, but especially in spring and autumn, when the colours celebrate the mountains.

And every time I visit Val Gardena, I think that it is absolutely necessary to protect the Dolomites, to defend them from noise, pollution, from too many cars, from the sterile tourism of „hit-and-run“.

We need more soft mobility. I invite visitors to leave their car at the hotel and explore the valley by mountain bike on the paths that cross meadows and forests, or to put on their hiking boots and set off for the mountain huts which sit proudly on the peaks looking up to the sky. In winter, it is time for your snowshoes and strolls and hikes in the pine forests. Take an eco-friendly holiday. Where necessary, use efficient public transport and the many modern lifts.

Try to be slow. Slow is magical. Make as little noise as possible. Listen to the voices of the mountain: it will repay you with surprising generosity.

Those who come to the Dolomites must know that they are entering a „temple“. A natural temple, a sacred place of primordial energy that has become rock, forest, clouds, streams, lakes, dizzying peaks, endless meadows. A temple that needs silence. Of peace. Of balance and respect.

Of Love. Let‘s protect this temple.

How to reach Val Gardena

HAMBURG 1.040 km BERLIN

850 km

FRANKFURT 660 km MÜNCHEN 270 km

STUTTGART 490 km

KUFSTEIN / INNSBRUCK 110 km

KEMPTEN 250 km ZÜRICH 330 km LANDECK 180 km

Passo Resia / Reschenpass

SALZBURG 290 km

BRENNERO / Brennerpass

BREGENZ 290 km

WIEN

Passo Rombo / Timmelsjoch

AUSTRIA / ÖSTERREICH

580 km

AUSTRIA / ÖSTERREICH

VIPITENO / Sterzing BRUNICO / Bruneck

Passo Giovo / Jaufenpass

SVIZZERA / SCHWEIZ SILANDRO / Schlanders

CHIUSA / Klausen FS

MERANO / Meran

Tubre / Taufers i.M.

FS BRESSANONE / Brixen

LIENZ 130 km

Passo Monte Croce / Kreuzbergpass

MEBO

BOLZANO / Bozen FS

Passo Stelvio / Stilfserjoch

Passo Gardena / Grödnerjoch Passo Sella / Sellajoch

CORTINA 60 km VENEZIA 200 km

Trentino

Passo Costalunga / Karerpass TRENTO

LEGENDA / Legende / Legend:

90 km

VERONA 190 km MILANO 310 km

AUTOSTRADA / Autobahn / Motorway

MODENA 280 km ROMA

STRADA STATALE / Staatsstraße / State Road

690 km

USCITA AUTOSTRADA / Autobahnausfahrt / Motorway Exit STAZIONE FS / Zugbahnhof / Train Station

ITALY

SOUTH TYROL

VAL GARDENA

CONNECTIONS By car The Val Gardena road network is directly connected to the motorway Autostrada del Brennero (A22). Arriving from the south drive past Verona, Trento, Bolzano to Chiusa and take the exit Chiusa/Val Gardena. Arriving from the north, drive past Innsbruck – Brennero – Bressanone to Chiusa and take the exit Chiusa/Val Gardena. Following the road signs you reach Ortisei in about 20 minutes and a few km further you find S. Cristina and Selva Val Gardena.

The mountain passes at the end of the valley are only a few minutes drive away.

In Val Gardena, however, it is possible to do without a car for the whole period of your stay as the public transport connections are excellent in the high season and there are many lift facilities from each locality to the high altitude excursion and skiing areas. Many guests are happy to leave their car at home and reach Val Gardena by public transport.

By train Val Gardena is connected to the rest of Italy and Europe by Intercity and Eurocity trains which all stop in Bolzano and Bressanone and some even in Chiusa. Deutsche Bahn runs 5 services a day from Bologna, Venice and Verona to Bolzano, starting from 9 Euro and 5 services a day from Germany, starting from 29 Euro. For information: www.valgardena.it/train By bus There are various buses which leave from Bolzano, Bressanone and Chiusa to Val Gardena (public bus service timetable available at www.sii.bz.it). Some hotels offer a shuttle bus service to and from the stations.

By airplane The nearest airports are located in Bolzano, Verona, Innsbruck, Bergamo, Munich and Milan. The Bolzano airport has daily flights to and from Rome.

Transfer from the airport Furthermore, transfers have been organized between the airports of Verona (Catullo), Bergamo (Orio al Serio), Milano Malpensa, Milano Linate, Innsbruck and Munich (at the main station also) and Val Gardena. For further information and ticket sale, please go to www.transfertovalgardena.com For information regarding the taxi service to and from the stations and the airports, please contact our information offices or go to www.valgardena.it Taxi & Bus Gardena: Tel. +39 366 47 47 327 Taxi & Bus Autosella: Tel. +39 04 71 79 00 33

Layout & Design:

INFO VAL GARDENA Tel. +39 04 71 77 77 77 info@valgardena.it www.valgardena.it SKYPE NAME: info_val_gardena

www.valgardena.it

TOURIST OFFICE I-39046 Ortisei Reziastr. 1

TOURIST OFFICE I-39047 S. Cristina Chemunstr. 9

TOURIST OFFICE I-39048 Selva Val Gardena Mëisulesstr. 213

Room availability information By phone: from Monday to Saturday 8.30 - 12.30 am / 3.30 - 6.30 pm

Tel. +39 04 71 77 76 00 Fax +39 04 71 79 67 49 ortisei@valgardena.it

Tel. +39 04 71 77 78 00 Fax +39 04 71 79 31 98 s.cristina@valgardena.it

Tel. +39 04 71 77 79 00 Fax +39 04 71 79 42 45 selva@valgardena.it

24-hour information system: www.valgardena.it facebook.com/VGardena