Val Gardena Valley

Val Gardena is an alpine valley in the Dolomites of northern Italy, located in the province commonly referred to as South Tyrol. It is noted for alpine skiing, mountain hiking and a longstanding local tradition of woodcarving.

The valley contains several well-equipped resort towns that provide lift access to surrounding slopes and long-distance hiking routes. The area is a year-round destination for downhill skiing in winter and for high-mountain hiking, via ferrata and climbing in summer, with routes linking the valley to the wider Dolomite groups.

Local communities developed tourism infrastructure through the 20th century while preserving elements of Ladin language and culture and artisanal woodwork. The valley’s economy is centred on tourism, hospitality and traditional crafts.

Val Gardena sits within the Dolomites of northern Italy and is administratively in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region. The valley lies amid dramatic Dolomite rock formations and is one of several interconnected valleys that form the core of the UNESCO-designated mountain landscape.

• UNESCO and ski network: Part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage area and integrated into the Dolomiti Superski lift-and-slope network.
• Ladin culture: Valley hosts a living Ladin culture and a long tradition of woodcarving and local crafts that are still visible in towns and markets.

What to See#

• Ortisei, Selva and Santa Cristina: Principal valley towns that serve as tourist bases and cultural centres for the valley, each with hotels, shops and cableway access to higher terrain.
• Major peaks and groups: A high-alpine massif and set of peaks including the Sassolungo (Langkofel) group and the Sella group, which frame the valley and provide routes for climbing and skiing.

Val Gardena is reachable by road from Bolzano (approx. 40-60 minutes). Buses run from Bolzano to Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva Gardena. The nearest major airports are Bolzano, Innsbruck and Verona, all requiring onward ground transport.

• For the classic postcard view of the valley, go to the Saslong pass or take the Seceda cable car from Ortisei.
• Visit local woodcarving workshops in Ortisei and Santa Cristina to see the centuries-old craft still practiced.
• Skiers should note the Sellaronda circuit connects Val Gardena to neighboring valleys - plan lift tickets accordingly.