Rosetta Verticale:
23rd September 2017 – Primiero Valley

Published by Mountainblog on 09/11/2017.

The Rosetta Verticale is a competitive run with starting point in Apt San Martino di Castrozza and arrival on the Rosetta Top. A wonderful 360° panorama on the Cimon della Pala, on the Plateau Pale di San Martino and on the Primiero Valley with other peaks all around waits for the runners on the Rosetta Top compensating for the effort of the run. The Rosetta Verticale is the final run of the Trentino Vertical Circuit.

Test your physical resistance and compete on the stunning path leading to the Plateau Pale di San Martino enjoying an unforgettable view from the top.

Credits: A. Trovati

INFO: Apt San Martino di Castrozza.

Sunset hike in the Burning Dolomites #BURNINGDOLOMITES

Published by Mountainblog on 09/06/2017.

A special wonder of nature can be observed in Val Gardena during the autumn months, the so-called Burning Dolomites.
Here, the needles of the larches turn from green to yellow and then to glowing orange, red and brown. At the same time, special and particularly low sunrays color the Dolomites wonderfully red.

From September 13th and November 3rd 2017, hikers can experience this unique moment on guided sunset hikes every Wednesday and on guided daytrips every Friday.

Discover the programme of the sunset hikes here.

INFO: Val Gardena

A UNESCO World Heritage Site experience. Hiking in the Holiday Region Three Peaks in the Dolomites

Published by Mountainblog on 09/04/2017.

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Awe-inspiring peaks, sparkling lakes and quaint valleys – it is these iconic features that make the Three Peaks Dolomites a perfect hiking destination. Right at the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site and around the area’s famous landmark, the Three Peaks, nature lovers and sports enthusiasts can choose from a wide variety of hut-to-hut trekking tours, circular hikes and challenging high routes. Whether it is an easy hike from the emerald-green shores of Lago di Braies/Pragser Wildsee to the sun-drenched Malga Foresta/Grünwaldalm, a steeper ascent from the Prato Piazza/Plätzwiese plateau to the panoramic Picco de Vallandro/Dürrenstein, or an ambitious multi-day tour along the Dobbiaco high route with its unparalleled views of the Three Peaks – the choice of routes is sure to suite all skills and abilities.

The natural beauty found in and around the holiday resorts of Sesto/Sexten, San Candido/Innichen, Dobbiaco/Toblach, Villabassa/Niederdorf and Braies/Prags turns hiking in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites into an unforgettable experience. A true place of magic, for example, is the Prato Piazza high altitude plateau near Braies. Far away from any traffic this gem captures visitors with a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. It is also the starting point for several hikes at different levels. Families will enjoy the easy walk to Monte Specie/Strudelkopf at 2,307 meters. The summit cross, which is also known as “homecomer’s cross”, offers rewarding vistas of Tofane, Monte Cristallo and the Three Peaks. Those who are not afraid of heights take the road to Picco de Vallandro at Prato Piazza for the three-hour challenging climb that opens up great panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. On the plateau itself the Prato Piazza Mountain Inn and the Rifugio Vallandro serve a variety of regional fare for hungry hikers.

Well-trained endurance athletes are able to test their physical fitness along the Dobbiaco high route where the Dolomites and the High Tauern mountain range seem close enough to touch. Alternatively, the tour may be extended to two days including an overnight at the Rifugio Bonner. This provides visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful mountains from hut to hut, including the Steinbergalm hut and the Malga S. Silvestro hut/Silvesteralm.

A nature experience for the more slow-paced is the easy walk over the wide gravel road framed by lovely pastures leading from the legendary lake Lago di Braies to the Malga Foresta at an altitude of 1,580 meters. Gourmets will enjoy the hut’s delicious menu of the day featuring local and Italian specialties, served on the beautiful sundeck. Another easy, yet none the less scenic route originates in historic San Candido. It takes hikers to the Rifugio Tre Scarperi/Dreischusterhütte and boasts great views of the impressive Sesto Dolomites that stretch through the Val Campo di Dentro/Innerfeldtal. The area is part of the Three Peaks Nature Park and offers an unspoilt haven of peace and tranquility second to none. The Tre Scarperi hut operates from June through early October and also offers guest accommodation.

For further information on activities and accommodation in the Three Peaks Dolomites website.

Haven of inspiration: Sounds, visions and food for thought in the Three Peaks Dolomites

Published by Mountainblog on 07/11/2017.

The Dolomites have always been a place of inspiration and free spirit. From arts and crafts to paintings and music – sharp rock formations, beautiful mountain pastures and the untamed forces of nature evoke an atmosphere of creativity. Anyone visiting the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites will be captured by this truly unique feeling that can be experienced through a multitude of events and in many different places.

A musical genius and his works
Intrigued by the town’s special appeal, composer Gustav Mahler started spending his summers from 1908 onwards in Dobbiaco/Toblach. Not only did they name a concert hall at the cultural center Grand Hotel Toblach after him – since 1981 Dobbiaco has also been staging the annual Gustav Mahler Music Weeks, a high-class, internationally acclaimed music festival dedicated to the works and traditions of Gustav Mahler. In 2017, the event is taking place July 15 through August 4. In addition to a wide choice of concerts visitors get to enjoy exhibitions and a series of lectures titled “Gustav Mahler dialog”.

Magical and dazzling with a dash of craziness: OLALA
Acrobats, magicians, shining lights and flashy characters: On July 28, 2017 San Candido/Innichen plays host to the OLALA street theater festival Lienz with its intriguing program that will enchant audiences through walk acts in the pedestrian zone, through crazy appearances between bars and shops, and many other performances. Owing to its innovative and unorthodox character OLALA has grown to become one of the most popular festivals of its kind in Europe.

Green think-tank at the pulse of time: the Toblach Talks
Founded in 1985 by Hans Glauber, the Toblach Talks have evolved into a renowned think-tank for issues relating to the ecological turnaround in the Alpine region. Once a year, experts from various fields, scientists, community officials, and business and tourism representatives gather at the Grandhotel Toblach to discuss specific topics. During the upcoming Toblach Talks from September 29 through October 1, 2017 participants will focus on digitalization in a sharing economy and its potential contributions towards a sustainable future – during presentations, panel discussions, talks and on-site gatherings.

Historic atmosphere and cultural attractions in downtown San Candido
Known for its many shops and restaurants historic San Candido in the Dolomites has a very urban feel to it. While taking a leisurely stroll through old town and the pedestrian zone’s small alleys, or enjoying a glass of wine there is sure to provide a taste of true Italian dolce vita, a visit to Collegiate Church proves both historically and culturally rewarding: Dating back to the 12 century, it is one of the most important Romanesque sacral buildings in the Eastern Alps.

Photo: ©TV Innichen_Patrick Janach

For further information on activities and accommodation in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites go to www.drei-zinnen.info

Three Peaks Dolomites: Tradition, Local Crafts
& Regional Food Specialties

Published by Mountainblog on 06/15/2017.

The holiday regionThree Peaks in the Dolomites takes travelers on a journey back to the origins – to traditional crafts and local food specialties. The region, which is located at the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a very unique appeal during the summer months with glowing mountain peaks standing against quaint valleys and sun-kissed alpine meadows. It is a place where traditional craftsmanship is kept alive with much dedication and where visitors get to enjoy delicious South Tyrolean culinary treats made from local ingredients, sold at local farms or small farmers’ shops.

Travelling back in time: The tradition of hat making. A great example demonstrating the long tradition of ancient crafts in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites is the Zacher family in San Candido/Innichen. They have been crafting products from natural felt since 1560, which makes them one of the country’s oldest artisan families. Today, the five siblings carrying on the tradition at the hat maker’s shop mainly manufacture slippers and soles.

A fruity affair. At the farm “manufactory” Regiohof food lovers get to taste a blend of traditional foods and new influences. Ancient recipes from mountain farms are newly brought to life through zesty chutneys and high-quality preserves made from different types of fruit. The Alpe Pragas, too, processes for their delicious preserves nothing but premium fruit grown right in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites. An exceptionally high 70% (or more) fruit content in all spreads guarantees an extra tasteful experience.

Of farmer’s shops and local cheese miracles. Visitors will find a great number of farmer’s shops in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites inviting them on a leisurely stroll through rustic farmsteads. At traditional mountain farms and small farming households like the Patzleiner family’s Höfkäserei Lechnerhof connoisseurs are able to purchase premium homemade cheeses and dairy products. A wide choice of homemade products is also available at the Unteroltlhof in Sesto/Sexten, where in 2008 the Villgrater family added a cheese dairy to their farm. Not forgetting the Villa Waldruhe in Dobbiaco/Toblach, an organic farm that uses all components of milk when producing cheese. Another place not to miss in Dobbiaco is the show dairy Drei Zinnen. It explains the secret behind traditional cheese making in the area. In addition, the gallery at this modern alpine dairy presents insights on the production process and the work of experienced master cheese makers.

Apart from milk, cheese and other dairy products visitors can buy meat and sausages made from young cattle raised at the respective farm plus a choice of smoked meat products at small, rustic farmer’s shops like the farm butchery Steinmetz in Sesto or at the Ranerhof in San Candido.

Local flavors: The Three Peaks Dolomites “Quality Partner“ seal. When choosing a restaurant or accommodation food lovers who put particular emphasis on local quality should look out for the “Quality Partner” seal issued by the Sennerei Drei Zinnen and the Sesto cheese dairy. The seal is awarded to places that exclusively serve locally produced dairy products.

INFO: Three Peaks Dolomites

Dolomites Horse Show
The Experience of a Lifetime

Published by Mountainblog on 06/12/2017.

After the runaway success of the first edition, prepare to welcome the second edition of Dolomites Horse Show between 6 and 9 July in Selva di Val Gardena (Italy). This year, the show has decided to substitute the CSI3* with the more prestigious CSI4*, as well as adding the CSI2* that will go towards the Gran Prix ranking.

The change results in a higher technical challenge of the already difficult competitions. The prestige and prize money of the event have also increased.

Selva di Val Gardena has always been a welcoming location, making it a 5-star destination and an ideal setting for the show. The hospitality offer has been expanded to make the four-day stay of horse show fans one to remember.

Val Gardena is a fairy-tale valley surrounded by stunning mountains, verdant forests and well-known for its picturesque villages: all this will contribute to making an already special event unforgettable.

HOTELS. The Dolomites Horse Show relies on the partnership with two prestigious hotels to offer a one-of-a-kind hospitality experience that has made Val Gardena famous for in the past. The Granvara Hotel and Gran Baita Hotel share the pride and joy of Selva di Val Gardena. A refined ambience, pure relaxation, and utmost comfort are the traits of this structure that will make guests feel right at home.

RIDERS’ CLUB. The access to the stands is free but, should you really want to experience the excitement of the show from the ‘inside’, then the Dolomites Horse Show has thought of different tailored solutions for you. The access to the Riders’ Club will allow enthusiasts to meet the protagonists of this event in their reserved space and to taste the all-inclusive culinary offer: breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea with wine, champagne, and soft drinks. Access to the Riders’ Club can be purchased as follows:

Daily pass (excl. Sunday) – 100 EUR

Sunday pass – 150 EUR

Four-day pass – 300 EUR

VIP AREA. The Organising Committee wanted to offer the possibility of following the show from a reserved area. If you would like to make the most of the said offer, get ready to savour the joys of an open bar and delight in a tailored menu created by a Michelin-starred chef for the occasion. You can purchase the offer on a daily basis or for the entire period of the event. The Organising Committee is more than happy to help make the Dolomites Horse Show an unforgettable experience.

To book your spot, please write to office@dolomiteshorseshow.com or call +39 3398021926. Also refer to the Organising Committee if you wish to register for the CSI4* or CSI2* events.

INFO: Val Gardena

Top 5 Things to Do for Adrenaline Junkies
In the Holiday Region Three Peaks
in the Dolomites

Published by Mountainblog on 05/05/2017.

Adventures abound and a big rush of adrenaline: In May, South Tyrol’s Three Peaks Dolomites holiday region starts into a new climbing and outdoor season drawing mountaineers of all sorts to the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. From beginners to experts, from hiking to climbing – fixed rope routes, via ferratas and high routes, exciting climbing parks and indoor climbing centers make the region a perfect destination for anyone “aiming high”, and popular climbing and outdoor events are sure to add that extra bit of action. The top five things to do for adrenaline junkies:

1. “Peak performance”: Following the Dolomites high routes

Taking a spectacular multi-day hike through the Dolomites requires a certain level of physical fitness and stamina. In spite of all the strain, it certainly won’t be long before the endorphins kick in, along the ridgeway crossing the Braies/Prags and the Sesto/Sexten Dolomites for example. During the five-day tour from Braies to the Dolomites’ famous Prato Piazza/Plätzwiese crossing the Valle della Rienza/Rienztal valley to the “Drei Zinnen Hütte” mountain hut and back to the idyllic Val Fiscalina/Fischleintal hikers will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Three Peaks. Nights can be spent at cozy, rustic huts to be found along the trails.

2. For novices and pros: Climbing parks & indoor climbing centres

Whether it is improving one’s skills or entering the world of climbing – the spectacular climbing parks in the Three Peaks Dolomites offer perfect terrain for all tastes. Known as some of the most popular destinations for experienced climbers are the climbing crag Landro in the Val di Landro/Höhlensteintal, and the challenging routes in Ponticello/Brückele in the Val di Braies valley, while the Rienztal valley climbing park attracts visitors with a variety of routes both for beginners and pros plus impressive views of the Three Peaks. Ideal places for practice are the two indoor climbing centers: The Nordic Arena in Dobbiaco/Toblach and the Dolomiten Arena in Sesto/Sexten provide routes for every level plus bouldering areas.

3. Follow the flow: Via ferratas in the Three Peaks Dolomites

Those who feel ready for the next step “up” can try and climb the Three Peaks with an experienced guide from one of the local alpine training centers. There is a whole choice of routes at different levels leading up the region’s landmark. The world famous Via Comici route on the north face (level VII), for example, is recommended for very experienced climbers only: 16 ropes and a 550-metre vertical slab make it a very special challenge.

4. Rock it! – The Dolorock Climbing Festival

A renowned event in the scene, the Dolorock Climbing Festival takes place from May 26 through 28, 2017 in the Three Peaks Dolomites. It offers climbers the opportunity to spend a weekend dedicated to their favorite sports and to compete against big names from the scene in the Landro valley. More detailed information is available on www.dolorock.com.

5. Aiming high: The Adventure Outdoor Fest, San Candido/Innichen

Visitors at this year’s Adventure Outdoor Fest from June 28 through July 2 will be able to literally rise to new heights trying themselves at disciplines like high-lining, parkour, climbing, mountain biking, running and yoga. Next to courses, meetings and presentations the festival also presents workshops, film screenings in the evenings, and an exciting kid’s program. For full details see www.adventureoutdoorfest.com

For further information on activities and family-friendly accommodation in the Three Peaks Dolomites go to www.drei-zinnen.info.

INFO: Three Peaks Dolomites

Val Gardena: E-Bike Gourmet Tour e-powered by BOSCH

Published by Mountainblog on 05/04/2017.

The impressive panorama of the Dolomites – part of the UNESCO World Heritage site – is an oasis of well-being. The E-Bike Gourmet Tour e-powered by BOSCH is all about pleasure – from cozy cycling to culinary delicacies. On a E-Bike tour through Val Gardena (Italy) – from the north side of the valley to the southern side – the participants will discover the captivation of the Dolomites and the magic of the regional cuisine. A stopover in the huts and farms of Val Gardena is the summit of pleasure: a second breakfast, an aperitif, a main course and a delicious dessert are served to all the participants – accompanied, of course, by the typical Val Gardena hospitality. Let us take you to the Val Gardena mountains and enjoy a 360° pleasure!

Meeting point: 9.00 am Active & Events Office Selva Val Gardena
Price: 45,00 € / 35,00 € for VGA partners

Services included:
– a professional E-Bike guide
– second breakfast at the hut “L Muliné”
– Aperitif at the Tirler hut
– Lunch at Café Restaurant Val d’Anna
– Dessert at the Paratoni farm in S. Cristina

What do I need?
– E bike
– protective helmet
– suitable bike wear, protection against wind and rain.

INFO: Val Gardena

Val Gardena – Dolomites Horse Show.
The 2017 edition of the wonderful Italian show is scheduled from the 6th to the 9th of July

Published by Mountainblog on 04/19/2017.

Following the great success of the first edition, Selva di Val Gardena will once again welcome the Dolomites Horse Show, a sporting event of the highest caliber, which attracts the very best of international show jumping to its unique setting.

The show is scheduled from the 6th to the 9th of July, and during the four days of competitions, amazing horses will take the field with their riders in this suggestive location that has no equals in the world. Indeed, the event, which is supported by Val Gardena and Südtirol, will take place in the wonderful Vallunga, a UNESCO natural heritage, and perfect scenery for a show that brings together sport and elegance. In the heart of the North-Western Dolomites, between the Massiccio del Sella, Passo Sella, Passo Gardena and Ponte Gardena, Val Gardena attracts tourists and mountaineers from all over the world.

What better place then to take international show jumping? The feedback from the audience and insiders has been overwhelming, and has convinced Alex Delazer, an International rider himself and creator of the event, that his idea was a winning one. The first edition of the Dolomites Horse Show has entered the rich history of sports of SouthTyrol. After the legendary Ski World Cup, the ATP Tennis Challenger and the Südtirol Dolomites HERO, Val Gardena has in fact become part of the exclusive locations hosting the most prestigious horse shows. This year, the CSI3*, heart of the show, has been replaced by a CSI4*, thereby raising the technical level of the show. With this quality leap, the already significant amount of prize money has been increased, reaching a total of 250,000 euros.

The best horses and riders in the world will meet in Selva di Val Gardena to compete in five classes, which are all valid for the Longines World Ranking List. The most anticipated moment will for sure be the Grand Prix, which will see the best 30 riders of the world Ranking List take the field, and which will conclude the event. Next to the CSI4* show, the second edition of the Dolomites Horse Show will also host a CSI1* show, reserved for amateurs and the young promising riders of this sport, which will allow its participants to ride next to the great riders.

Show Jumping is a sport that brings with it the beau monde and Val Gardena is ready to welcome it appropriately: the VIP area, with a fantastic view over the main arena, offers an all-inclusive service with menus created by the best Italian chefs, accompanied by a selection of fine wines, champagne, and cocktails.

The event will be covered extensively by the media, and also be live on TV thanks to partnerships with national television, Eurosport, Class Horse Tv and Horse & Country. This media coverage will offer the show the opportunity to enter more than 100 million homes, speaking twenty different languages. During the first edition, the Dolomites Horse Show has been followed by the whole world with a tremendous amount of interest: more than 20,000 connections have been registered during the live streaming and numerous were those who watched the Grand Prix on Sky.

The show is invitational. For entries please refer directly to the Show Office at: office@dolomiteshorseshow.com.

INFO: Val Gardena

Rabanser And Stuffer Triumph At The 2017 Gardenissima

Published by Mountainblog on 04/04/2017.

Alexander Rabanser delivered a blistering display of skill on the pistes of Val Gardena to finish ahead of Luca and Jonas Senoner. Christof Innerhofer had the best time overall, but he was disqualified for missing a gate. The women’s category was topped by Verena Stuffer who held sway over Nicol and Nadia Delago.

A total of 650 skiers from 16 nations lined out for the event

The 21st edition of the Südtirol Gardenissima, the world’s longest giant slalom, delivered thrills and spills aplenty as it brought the Alpine skiing season to a fittingly exciting close today. The stunning backdrop of the Dolomites combined with the warmth and enthusiasm of the spectators helped boost the already-spectacular performances of the athletes as they started their descent from the top of Monte Seceda and then shot down the piste (shortened for safety reasons) to the finish-line in the Costes area.

The fastest of the 650 participants was the italian Alexander Rabanser who stopped the clock in 2’17.85. 2″72 behind him was Luca Senoner, while Jonas Senoner finished third in a time of 2’21.84.

There was huge excitement too around the participation of Kasete Naufahu Skeen, the first Tongan skier to compete in the Alpine Skiing World Championship. He finished his race in a time of 3’05.90, but he was disqualified for missing a gate.

The women athletes delivered equally impressive performances with Verena Stuffer proving exceptionally skilled at weaving in and out of the gates, to make it first across the line in a time of 2’20.98. Nicol Delago could not catch Stuffer, however, and finished second, 2″91 behind her. The bottom step of the ladies’ podium went to Nadia Delago who crossed the line in a time of 2’24.16.

There was great applause and cheering from the crowd for the large group of Ski Legends as they completed their descent. First of the former champions to cross the line in this special category was Luca Senoner who finished second overall. He was 1″27 faster than Jonas Senoner and Federico Vanz. The first of the women to finish was Regina Haeusl, from Germany, who triumphed in style over Paola Magoni and Daniela Zini.

Delivering its usual magical mix of music, sport and fun, the Gardenissima once again proved a truly fantastic festival of snow, drawing in and involving everyone from amateur to professional skiers as well as promising young talents and families. And of course, a large group of very appreciative spectators. The fun continues tomorrow with the Südtirol Gardenissima Kids for young skiers born between 2003 and 2010.

Südtirol Gardenissima 2017
21° Edition – Val Gardena (BZ)

Men’s classification:
1. Alexander Rabanser (ITA) 2’17.85
2. Luca Senoner (ITA) 2’20.57
3. Jonas Senoner (ITA) 2’21.84
4. Federico Vanz (ITA) 2’21.84
5. Werner Perathoner (ITA) 2’26.15

Women’s classification:
1. Verena Stuffer (ITA) 2’20.98
2. Nicol Delago (ITA) 2’23.89
3. Nadia Delago (ITA) 2’24.16
4. Macarena Simari Birkner (ARG) 2’26.19
5. Maria Belen Simari Birkner (ARG) 2’27.21

For further information: Südtirol Gardenissima
Val Gardena

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