Val Gardena: The Enchanting Alpine Valley
Discover Val Gardena, the enchanting alpine valley in the heart of the Dolomites, offering stunning landscapes, rich culture, and year-round outdoor adventures.
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, Val Gardena is a picturesque alpine valley that beckons nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Val Gardena offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and rich tradition. The valley is dotted with charming villages like Ortisei, Selva, and Santa Cristina, each offering a unique glimpse into the local Ladin culture. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a winter sports enthusiast, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, Val Gardena has something for everyone. In the summer, the valley transforms into a verdant paradise, with trails that lead you through lush meadows and past towering peaks. In the winter, it becomes a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Val Gardena is also famous for its woodcarving tradition, with numerous workshops and galleries showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. The local cuisine is another highlight, with hearty dishes that reflect the region’s blend of Italian, Austrian, and Ladin influences. From cozy mountain huts to fine dining restaurants, you’ll find plenty of options to savor the local flavors.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Val Gardena.
- Visit during the off-season in late spring or early autumn to enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Make sure to explore the local woodcarving workshops in Ortisei for unique souvenirs.
- Take advantage of the Dolomiti Superski pass in winter for access to extensive ski slopes.
- Sample the local dishes such as speck, canederli, and apple strudel at traditional mountain huts.
- Use the Val Gardena Mobil Card for free access to local public transportation.
Val Gardena: The Enchanting Alpine Valley
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, Val Gardena is a picturesque alpine valley that beckons nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Val Gardena offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and rich tradition. The valley is dotted with charming villages like Ortisei, Selva, and Santa Cristina, each offering a unique glimpse into the local Ladin culture. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a winter sports enthusiast, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, Val Gardena has something for everyone. In the summer, the valley transforms into a verdant paradise, with trails that lead you through lush meadows and past towering peaks. In the winter, it becomes a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Val Gardena is also famous for its woodcarving tradition, with numerous workshops and galleries showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. The local cuisine is another highlight, with hearty dishes that reflect the region’s blend of Italian, Austrian, and Ladin influences. From cozy mountain huts to fine dining restaurants, you’ll find plenty of options to savor the local flavors.
Explore the best of what Val Gardena has to offer
When is the best time to go to Val Gardena?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Puez-Geisler Nature Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Puez-Geisler Nature Park, a nature preserve in the heart of South Tyrol, Italy.
Grödner Joch / Ju de Frara
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Grödner Joch, a breathtaking mountain pass in the Dolomites, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Hotel Adler
Experience unparalleled luxury and wellness at Hotel Adler, a premier alpine retreat in the stunning Dolomites of South Tyrol.
Ortisei - Val Gardena
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ortisei in Val Gardena, where stunning alpine scenery meets rich cultural traditions in South Tyrol.
Mar Dolomit - Swimming pool & Sauna
Discover relaxation and rejuvenation at Mar Dolomit, a stunning swimming pool and sauna in the heart of Ortisei, surrounded by breathtaking Dolomite landscapes.
Gardena Pass
Explore Gardena Pass, a breathtaking mountainous route in the Dolomites, offering stunning views, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences.
Vallunga
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Vallunga, a hiker's paradise in the Dolomites, with stunning trails and rich cultural experiences in South Tyrol.
Adventure Park & Fly Line Emozion Col de Flam
Experience the thrill of adventure and stunning views at Emozion Col de Flam, the ultimate amusement park in the heart of the Dolomites, Ortisei.
Trostburg
Explore Trostburg Castle: A historical gem in the Dolomites offering stunning views, rich history, and a glimpse into medieval life.
GARDENAFLY - Paragliding Tandemflights in the Dolomites
Experience the thrill of tandem paragliding over the stunning Dolomites—an unforgettable adventure awaits in Italy's breathtaking landscape.
Rose Garden Uhrerhof
Explore the breathtaking Rose Garden Uhrerhof in Ortisei, a botanical paradise with vibrant blooms and stunning mountain views.
Panaraida Wasserspiele
Discover Panaraida Wasserspiele: A vibrant children's amusement center in Santa Cristina Gherdëina, offering unforgettable water-themed adventures for families.
Alpenroyal Grand Hotel
Discover the epitome of alpine luxury at Alpenroyal Grand Hotel, where exquisite dining, rejuvenating spa experiences, and stunning mountain views await.
Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa
Discover the luxurious Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa in the Dolomites, where alpine adventure meets ultimate relaxation in South Tyrol.
Family Hotel Posta
Experience the charm of Family Hotel Posta in Santa Cristina Valgardena, your perfect alpine getaway with family-friendly amenities and breathtaking mountain views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Terrazza delle Dolomiti
Experience the breathtaking views and exhilarating adventures at Terrazza delle Dolomiti, the heart of the Italian Alps.
Col Raiser
Experience the stunning Dolomites from above at Col Raiser, a captivating mountain cable car in Santa Cristina Valgardena, South Tyrol.
Gardena Pass
Explore the breathtaking Gardena Pass in the Dolomites, where stunning vistas and outdoor adventures await in the heart of South Tyrol.
Adventure Park & Fly Line Emozion Col de Flam
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and breathtaking views at Adventure Park & Fly Line Emozion Col de Flam in Ortisei, the ultimate amusement park for all ages.
Museum Gherdëina
Explore the cultural heritage of Val Gardena at Museum Gherdëina, where history and tradition beautifully intertwine in the heart of the Dolomites.
Sentiero del trenino della Valgardena
Explore the scenic beauty of Sentiero del Trenino della Valgardena, a historic trail in South Tyrol, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cascata Waterfall - Tervela
Explore the breathtaking Cascata Waterfall - Tervela in St. Christina, a serene park destination nestled in the stunning Dolomites of South Tyrol, Italy.
Rovine del Castello Wolkenstein
Explore the enchanting Rovine del Castello Wolkenstein, a medieval castle ruin in South Tyrol, surrounded by breathtaking Dolomite mountain views.
Naturpfad Troi Unika
Discover the serene beauty and rich biodiversity of the Dolomites at Naturpfad Troi Unika, a captivating nature trail in Santa Cristina Valgardena.
Sentiero della Leggenda
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich folklore of Sentiero della Leggenda in the heart of the Dolomites, a must-visit trail for every traveler.
Punto panoramico consigliato sulle Odle (solo estate)
Discover the breathtaking vistas of the Odle Panorama Point in South Tyrol, a summer-only attraction perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Tunnel del Trenino della Val Gardena
Discover the historical charm of Tunnel del Trenino della Val Gardena, a serene escape in the stunning Dolomites of South Tyrol.
Cascate Vallunga
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cascate Vallunga, a stunning waterfall attraction in Val Gardena, surrounded by the majestic Dolomites.
Brunnen
Explore Brunnen in Ortisei: A serene tourist attraction surrounded by stunning Dolomite landscapes and rich cultural heritage, perfect for nature lovers.
Cascate della Vallunga
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascate della Vallunga, a hidden gem in South Tyrol's stunning alpine landscape, perfect for nature enthusiasts and explorers.
Essential places to dine
Vedl Mulin Srl
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Vedl Mulin Srl in Ortisei, where traditional flavors meet breathtaking alpine views.
Caffè Val d'Anna
Discover authentic flavors at Caffè Val d'Anna in Ortisei - your go-to café for delightful Italian coffee and pastries.
Bar Ristorante Dantercepies
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking mountain views at Bar Ristorante Dantercepies in the Dolomites.
Ciampinoi Pizza Self Service
Experience delicious pizzas with breathtaking mountain views at Ciampinoi Pizza Self Service in Sëlva di Val Gardena.
Hotel Chalet Gerard - The mountain lodge
Experience luxury and wellness at Hotel Chalet Gerard nestled in the breathtaking Dolomites - perfect for relaxation and adventure seekers alike.
Ristorante La Stua Aprés Ski
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante La Stua Aprés Ski in Selva di Val Gardena - a perfect après-ski destination with stunning mountain views.
Almgasthof Mont Seuc
Experience authentic Tyrolean cuisine with stunning mountain views at Almgasthof Mont Seuc in South Tyrol.
Restaurant Tubladel
Experience authentic Italian cuisine amidst stunning Dolomite views at Restaurant Tubladel in Ortisei.
La Bula
Experience authentic Italian pizza in Selva di Val Gardena at La Bula – where flavor meets mountain charm.
Baita Ciampac Hütte
Discover Baita Ciampac Hütte: A delightful mountain restaurant offering authentic South Tyrolean cuisine amidst stunning Dolomite landscapes.
Refuge Panorama
Experience breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at Refuge Panorama in Selva di Val Gardena – a perfect alpine retreat.
'L Fudlé
Experience authentic South Tyrolean cuisine at 'L Fudlé in Santa Cristina Valgardena - where tradition meets taste.
Restaurant Secëda
Experience authentic Italian cuisine surrounded by breathtaking Dolomite scenery at Restaurant Secëda – where flavor meets nature.
Costamula Restaurant
Experience exquisite dining at Costamula Restaurant in Ortisei – where local flavors meet breathtaking alpine views.
Restaurant Pizzeria Sun Valley Stübele
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurant Pizzeria Sun Valley Stübele in Selva di Val Gardena - where every bite tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Supermarket Senoner Sarteur DESPAR
Explore the vibrant Supermarket Senoner Sarteur DESPAR, your one-stop shop for groceries, local deli treats, and unique souvenirs in Selva di Val Gardena.
Supermarket Valgardena Center DESPAR
Explore the flavors of South Tyrol at Supermarket Valgardena Center DESPAR, your go-to spot for local produce and delightful pastries in Selva di Val Gardena.
erse nature
Discover unique local treasures at Erse Nature in Selva di Val Gardena, where the beauty of South Tyrol comes alive through authentic artisan products.
Tito Speck - Il Maso dello Speck
Discover authentic South Tyrolean flavors at Tito Speck, a premier Italian grocery store in Ortisei, renowned for its artisanal products and local delicacies.
Maciaconi Sport Shop
Discover top-quality sportswear and ski gear at Maciaconi Sport Shop in Selva di Val Gardena, perfect for your Alpine adventures.
SPORTLER
Explore Selva di Val Gardena with SPORTLER - the ultimate destination for adventure sports gear and stylish outdoor apparel.
Leather Goods Mariele
Discover exquisite leather craftsmanship at Leather Goods Mariele in Ortisei, your destination for high-quality leather products.
MAMMUT Store
Explore the great outdoors with top-notch gear from MAMMUT Store in Ortisei, your adventure starts here.
G. Comploj-Soplases Holzschnitzereien - Woodcarvings - Sculture in legno
Explore exquisite wood carvings at G. Comploj-Soplases in Santa Cristina Valgardena – a must-visit for art lovers and souvenir seekers!
DOLOMITES GIFTS
Explore Dolomites Gifts in Canazei for unique souvenirs and authentic Italian products that celebrate the beauty of the Dolomites.
Comploj Margherita
Explore Comploj Margherita for exquisite local souvenirs and breathtaking sculptures, capturing the heart of South Tyrolean culture.
La Zipla
Discover unique souvenirs, art supplies, and festive decorations at La Zipla in Ortisei, the heart of South Tyrol's craftsmanship.
Extreme Fashion&Sport
Shop at Extreme Fashion & Sport for stylish outdoor apparel and gear in Selva di Val Gardena, where adventure meets fashion!
DEUR Woodcarving Shop
Discover unique handcrafted wooden treasures at DEUR Woodcarving Shop in Santa Cristina Valgardena, a true gem of South Tyrolean artistry.
Sportboutique Arnold Demetz S.N.C.
Explore the Dolomites with top-notch sportswear from Sportboutique Arnold Demetz in Selva di Val Gardena, your adventure starts here!
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Trending Landmark in Val Gardena
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Puez-Geisler Nature Park
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Grödner Joch / Ju de Frara
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Hotel Adler
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Ortisei - Val Gardena
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Mar Dolomit - Swimming pool & Sauna
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Gardena Pass
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Vallunga
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Adventure Park & Fly Line Emozion Col de Flam
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Trostburg
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GARDENAFLY - Paragliding Tandemflights in the Dolomites
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Rose Garden Uhrerhof
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Panaraida Wasserspiele
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Alpenroyal Grand Hotel
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Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa
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Family Hotel Posta