The best places to go skiing in the Dolomites

The Dolomites offer a unique blend of stunning limestone peaks, rich cultural heritage, and world‑class ski slopes. From the glamorous Cortina d’Ampezzo to the quieter 3 Zinnen, this guide highlights the region’s top resorts, key ski circuits, and must‑stay accommodations. Whether you’re a seasoned…

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 06:00:08 GMT

The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Italy, stand out from the Alps with their dramatic, pink‑tinged limestone ridges and a cultural mix that leans more Austrian than Italian. The region’s ski resorts, mostly located in South Tyrol, offer a blend of language, cuisine, and mindset that reflects both Italian glamour and Tyrolean tradition. With over 1,200 km of pistes in the Dolomiti Superski network, a single pass grants access to a wide array of slopes, making the area a magnet for winter sports enthusiasts worldwide.

Cortina d’Ampezzo – The Queen of the Dolomites

Cortina d’Ampezzo, situated in the Veneto region, earned international attention during the 2026 Winter Olympics. The town blends Italian elegance with top‑tier skiing, featuring a women’s World Cup run that showcases the area’s technical challenges. The resort’s 120 km of pistes are divided into three main zones: Tofana, Faloria, and Cinque Torri.

• Tofana – Offers a spectrum from gentle blue runs like Socrepo to demanding red and black trails that ascend the mountain’s higher elevations.
• Faloria – Easily accessible from town, it caters mainly to confident intermediates and experts with steeper terrain.
• Cinque Torri – Home to the Super8 circuit, it delivers breathtaking views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks.

For accommodation, Hotel Cortina sits at the heart of the town, providing traditional rooms and easy access to the slopes. Bed‑and‑breakfast options start at £320 per night.

Alta Badia – A Foodie’s Ski Paradise

Alta Badia is renowned for its culinary scene, boasting two Michelin‑starred restaurants and a winter calendar filled with food and wine festivals. The season opens on December 13 with the Gourmet Ski Safari, where five celebrated chefs transform mountain huts into pop‑up eateries, allowing skiers to sample local dishes on the go.

• Six villages, including Corvara, San Cassiano, Colfosco, and La Villa, form the heart of the resort.
• Corvara lies on the Sella Ronda circuit, a 38 km loop that passes through Arabba, Val di Fassa, and Alta Badia itself.

Stay at Hotel Sassongher in Corvara for panoramic mountain views and an extensive spa featuring outdoor heated pools. Double rooms begin at £419.

Val Gardena – The Sella Ronda Experience

Val Gardena, adjacent to Alpe di Siusi, offers 175 km of pistes, including the men’s World Cup Saslong black run. The resort’s three main villages—Ortisei, Santa Cristina, and Selva di Val Gardena—display classic Tyrolean architecture.

• The Sella Ronda circuit is a world‑famous ski loop that traverses Arabba, Val di Fassa, and Alta Badia.
• Ortisei’s Alpin Garden Luxury Maison & Spa features an adults‑only outdoor heated pool with unobstructed views of the Dolomites; double rooms start at £336.

3 Zinnen – Quiet Peaks Near the Austrian Border

Located a few miles from Austria, 3 Zinnen (Tre Cime) is a hidden gem with 115 km of pistes and spectacular mountain scenery. The area is less crowded, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility.

• Five bilingual villages—San Candido (Innichen), Sesto, Versacio, and others—serve as bases, connected by bus or train.
• The Giro delle Cime is a 35 km route that circles five peaks, offering a unique challenge for seasoned skiers.

Guests can stay at Naturhotel Leitlhof in San Candido, featuring a large, light‑filled spa and an outdoor pool. Double rooms start at £293.

Other Highlights in the Dolomites

• Kronplatz – Known for the Black Five Ski Challenge, it offers 27 blue and 13 red runs for all levels.
• Madonna di Campiglio – A stylish resort in Trentino with 150 km of varied slopes and four terrain parks for snowboarders.
• Arabba – A key stop on the Sella Ronda circuit, featuring steep slopes for intermediates and advanced skiers. It also provides direct access to the Marmolada glacier (3,343 m). History buffs can explore the First World War ski tour around the Col di Lana.

Whether you’re chasing world‑cup runs, savoring gourmet mountain cuisine, or simply enjoying panoramic views, the Dolomites deliver a comprehensive winter sports experience that blends natural beauty with cultural richness.

Why it matters

The Dolomites combine exceptional skiing with unique cultural and natural landscapes, making them a premier destination for winter travelers seeking both adventure and heritage.

Key points

• The Dolomites offer over 1,200 km of pistes within the Dolomiti Superski network.
• Cortina d’Ampezzo is a glamorous hub with World Cup runs and diverse terrain.
• Alta Badia is celebrated for its Michelin‑starred dining and the Gourmet Ski Safari.
• Val Gardena hosts the famous Sella Ronda circuit and classic Tyrolean villages.
• 3 Zinnen provides quiet, crowd‑free skiing with stunning peak views.
• Other resorts like Kronplatz, Madonna di Campiglio, and Arabba cater to all skill levels and interests.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time of year to ski in the Dolomites?

Late November to early March offers the most reliable snow conditions and the highest lift capacity.

Do I need a special pass to access all the ski areas?

A Dolomiti Superski pass grants access to over 1,200 km of pistes across the region.

Are there family-friendly accommodations in the Dolomites?

Yes, many resorts offer family rooms, ski schools, and child‑friendly amenities.

Reporting drawn from

• standard.co.uk