Val Gardena: 2026 Ski Season to Open
on 4 December

Published by Mountainblog on .

piste da sci val gardena

In the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Val Gardena will reopen its ski lifts on 4 December. Highlights include a redesigned section of the Ciampinoi run, looking ahead to the 2031 Alpine World Ski Championships.

 

Val Gardena is preparing to officially open the 2026/27 winter season on 4 December, offering more than 500 km of perfectly groomed ski slopes, with 98% snowmaking coverage, 115 km of cross-country ski trails and 30 km of hiking paths. As always, the resort is part of Dolomiti Superski and the famous Sellaronda circuit.

Surrounded by the imposing Sella and Sassolungo massifs, the ski area encompasses three municipalities: Ortisei (1,236 m), Santa Cristina (1,428 m) and Selva Val Gardena (1,563 m). The season will run until 4 April 2027, culminating in the resort’s now-famous closing weekend, featuring the Südtirol Gardenissima, with the Kids edition taking place on Sunday.

FIS officials have already awarded Val Gardena the 2031 Alpine World Ski Championships, 61 years after the historic 1970 event. In preparation for this major international competition, the final section of the Ciampinoi No. 3 run, known as La Ciampinoi, was redesigned over the summer. The slope is now wider and extends further west towards the valley station, making it ideal for technical disciplines.

Looking back at the 1970 World Championships, several Val Gardena slopes have become iconic landmarks, bearing witness to more than 100 years of skiing tradition. These are the Legendary 8, covering a total of 36 km:

  • Cir: La Mitica (The Legendary)
  • Femminile: La Femminile (The Women’s Run)
  • Ciampinoi No. 3: La Ripida (The Steep)
  • Bravo: La Romantica (The Romantic)
  • Falk: La Prima (The First)
  • Gardenissima: La Sensazionale (The Sensational)
  • La Longia: La Lunga (The Long)
  • Pilat: La Nuova (The New), opened in winter 2022.
piste val gardena

 

Val Gardena’s international outlook and appeal are also reflected in its inclusion in the IKON Pass, an international ski pass programme based in the United States. It offers unlimited skiing at 15 destinations across North America and up to seven days, subject to blackout dates, at 29 destinations worldwide, including Dolomiti Superski. Further information is available at www.ikonpass.com.

Continuing its sustainability journey, which began with GSTC certification in 2023, the valley will introduce 10 new Mercedes Citaro Hybrid buses and offer the digital Val Gardena Guest Pass, providing free access to all public transport services.

Finally, the competition calendar will feature two major early-season events on 18 and 19 December 2026, when the men’s FIS Alpine Ski World Cup races will take place on the Saslong course.

INFO: Val Gardena

Val Gardena Returns as the “Christmas Valley of the Dolomites”

Published by Mountainblog on .

Val gardena natale 2026

Christmas Valley: from 28 November 2026 to 6 January 2027, the villages of Ortisei and Selva Val Gardena will welcome visitors with wooden sculptures, fairytale Christmas markets and culinary events in the heart of the Dolomites.

During Advent, Val Gardena transforms into the enchanting Christmas Valley of the Dolomites, as the villages of Ortisei and Selva Val Gardena open their doors to two Christmas markets, each with its own distinctive and authentic character, combining romance with local traditions.

Christmas in Ortisei – “Nadel Urtijëi” (28 November 2026 – 6 January 2027)

The village of Ortisei is transformed into a fairytale Christmas village. Carefully crafted wooden chalets offer local artistic handicrafts, hand-carved nativity figurines, elegant gift ideas and traditional South Tyrolean and Ladin culinary specialities. The entire village is enveloped in warm festive lights, Christmas carols and the enticing aromas of spices and homemade sweets.

 

ortisei natale 2026

 

Selva Val Gardena – “Mountain Christmas” (29 November 2026 – 3 January 2027)

In Selva Val Gardena, the magic of the festive season meets the area’s skiing heritage. A continuous 350-metre stretch of lights is installed through the village centre, adorned with wooden cable car cabins to create a truly unique atmosphere. Visitors can stroll among the market stalls, enjoy a glass of mulled wine or a hot chocolate, and admire the handcrafted creations on display.

The easiest and most convenient way to reach Val Gardena during Advent is by taking advantage of its extensive public transport network. Once visitors arrive by train or bus, they can travel freely around the valley using the Val Gardena Guest Pass.

The pass is provided free of charge to guests staying at accommodation establishments affiliated with one of Val Gardena’s Tourist Associations. It includes unlimited use of all public buses within the valley, except the Nightbus and the Monte Pana/Saltria bus, as well as almost all public transport services throughout South Tyrol.

 

selva di val gardena natale 2026

 

Depending on the accommodation provider, the Val Gardena Guest Pass may also include additional benefits, such as special arrangements with the Mar Dolomit swimming pool, free or discounted participation in Val Gardena Active activities, free admission to HC Gherdëina home ice hockey games, ice skating, access to the tennis centre and much more.

During the first four weekends of Val Gardena’s Christmas markets, Trenitalia will operate a special Christmas train connecting Lombardy directly with South Tyrol, offering a convenient way to enjoy the festive season in Val Gardena.

The nearest railway stations are Bolzano (40 km), Ponte Gardena (18 km), Chiusa (23 km) and Bressanone (34 km). From there, visitors can continue their journey using the numerous public transport services available.

Finally, visitors can take advantage of a special offer to discover Val Gardena during this festive period. The resort is offering Dolomiti SuperPremière (4–19 December 2026), which includes one complimentary overnight stay, one ski pass and one day’s equipment rental for guests booking a minimum of four nights.

INFO: Val Gardena

Val Gardena Winter 2026/27: All the Snow Events

Published by Mountainblog on .

Val Gardena inverno 2026

Val Gardena Winter 2026: from the ski season to snow activities, with events combining sport and tradition. The valley prepares for winter 2026/27 with an offering that goes beyond the slopes.

In the heart of the Dolomites, within the Puez-Odle Nature Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Val Gardena is preparing for the 2026/27 winter season. Skiing will be one of the main highlights, but the valley also offers hiking, cross-country skiing, tobogganing, snowshoeing and opportunities to discover the area through its natural environment and traditions.

The ski season will begin on 4 December 2026 and end on 4 April 2027, during the weekend of the Gardenissima. The Val Gardena/Alpe di Siusi ski area offers more than 500 kilometres of slopes, with runs suitable for different ability levels and connections allowing skiers to take on the Sellaronda. In addition, 98% of the slopes are covered by artificial snowmaking.

Skiing against a spectacular Dolomite backdrop

The variety of skiing opportunities is one of the key features of the season. From more accessible runs to steeper and more demanding slopes, the ski area also includes courses that host FIS Alpine Ski World Cup races, most notably the famous Saslong.

Val Gardena has a long-standing connection with alpine skiing. Following the 1970 World Championships, the valley became one of the best-known international destinations for winter sports. The landscape, however, remains an integral part of the experience: the Sassolungo and Sella Groups provide a spectacular backdrop to days on the snow, while the three villages of Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva Val Gardena are the valley’s main points of reference.

For winter 2026/27, there will also be an upgrade to the Ciampinoi No. 3 slope. Its final section has been improved and now continues straight west towards the Ciampinoi valley station. The new section is wider and may be used as a competition course for the 2031 World Championships, while the construction of a bridge serving as the finish area is planned for the coming years.

A season for those looking beyond alpine skiing

Winter in Val Gardena is about much more than alpine skiing. The valley offers 30 kilometres of hiking trails and 115 kilometres of cross-country skiing tracks, along with numerous opportunities to experience the mountains in winter.

Among the areas dedicated to cross-country skiing is the Monte Pana Cross-Country Ski Centre, above Santa Cristina, with trails suitable for both skating and classic technique. Vallunga, meanwhile, is a destination for winter hikers, snowshoers and cross-country skiers, surrounded by dramatic rock walls and featuring the Way of the Cross, with its 15 stations carved from Swiss stone pine.

Tobogganing is also part of the winter offering. The Resciesa funicular connects Ortisei with the Resciesa Alpine pasture in just eight minutes, reaching an altitude of 2,200 metres and the start of a six-kilometre toboggan run, described in Val Gardena’s official material as the longest in the Dolomites.

 

ValGardenaWinter-52

From the opening of the season to spring

The 2026/27 winter calendar will accompany skiers from the beginning of the season through to spring. From 4 to 19 December 2026, the Ski Opening will combine winter sports, a festive Christmas atmosphere, markets and events celebrating the local woodcarving tradition, alongside the FIS Men’s Alpine Ski World Cup races on the Saslong.

Later, from 13 March to 4 April 2027, it will be time for SpringSkiing Val Gardena. Longer days, spring sunshine, perfectly groomed slopes and earlier lift openings will be accompanied by music, events and après-ski moments. Special offers for guests and dedicated family benefits will also be available.

The calendar also includes numerous events throughout the winter, from Christmas markets to snow and ice sculptures, drone shows and spring music events, culminating in the Gardenissima at the beginning of April.

A valley where nature, sport and tradition meet

The Val Gardena winter 2026/27 offering reflects a destination where outdoor activities and local identity coexist. Beyond its sporting dimension, the valley has a strong craft tradition, particularly in woodcarving, which has been developed here since the early 17th century.

The Ladin population, described in the official material as passionate about sport and nature and characterised by the use of four languages, further contributes to the identity of a destination that brings together the environment, outdoor activities and culture.

With skiing at its heart but plenty of other ways to experience the mountains, Val Gardena winter 2026/27 offers a varied season designed to accompany visitors through their Dolomite experience from the opening in December all the way into spring.

 

ValGardenaWinter-75

 

INFO: Val Gardena

Enrosadira: the magical phenomenon returns to Val Gardena for one of the most spectacular events of the year

Published by Mountainblog on .

enrosadira val gardena

With the arrival of autumn, Val Gardena transforms into a natural stage where light, colours and mountains come together to create one of the most fascinating spectacles in the Dolomites: the Burning Dolomites phenomenon.

There is a time of year when the Dolomites seem to catch fire. It is autumn, when the larches gradually change colour and the last rays of sunlight transform the cliffs and peaks of the “Pale Mountains” into a mosaic of red, orange and pink hues. This natural phenomenon is known as Enrosadira and is the protagonist of Burning Dolomites, an experience in Val Gardena that celebrates one of the most fascinating moments of the year in the mountains.

From September to early November 2026, the valley invites hikers, photography enthusiasts and nature lovers to discover the most spectacular side of the season through a programme of outdoor experiences organised by Val Gardena Active.

The highlight of the spectacle comes after mid-September, when the needles of the larches turn from green to yellow before bursting into shades of orange and red. At the same time, the unique natural light of the sun enhances the shapes of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, creating landscapes that change from minute to minute.

This is not simply about admiring the scenery: Burning Dolomites invites visitors to step into the spectacle itself, following trails at sunset and reaching some of the most spectacular viewpoints in Val Gardena. The experience becomes a combination of hiking, nature, photography and mountain culture.

Sunset over the Dolomites from Sëurasas

One of the most exciting experiences is the “Burning Dolomites from the Sëurasas panoramic viewpoint” hike, offered every Thursday. The route starts from the Cristauta area, near Santa Cristina, and leads through the forest to Sëurasas, an extraordinary natural balcony overlooking the Dolomites.

The ascent takes place in the late afternoon, allowing participants to reach the viewpoint just as the light begins to change. From here, they can witness the Enrosadira as the last hours of sunlight gradually colour the mountains and sky.

The hike takes approximately three hours and covers around 5 kilometres, with 400 metres of ascent and the same amount of descent. It is classified as a medium-difficulty route and is accompanied by a certified local mountain guide.

On selected dates, the experience includes an additional highlight: an aperitif with snacks and desserts is served at a traditional mountain hut before participants continue to the rocky viewpoint to enjoy the last rays of sunlight.

At the end of the experience, the return journey takes place through the forest, using headlamps provided by the organisers, making the descent an atmospheric experience in its own right.

 

enrosadira PassoGardena @WernerDejori

 

 

Stevia and Alpe Juac: walking through the “fire” of the Dolomites

 

The second itinerary leads to the Stevia area, with a hike towards Alpe Juac. The experience takes place every Tuesday and is more demanding, lasting approximately four and a half hours and designed for hikers accustomed to mountain terrain.

The meeting point is the Active & Events office in Selva di Val Gardena. From there, the route gradually reveals the transformation of the landscape as the sun sets and the autumn colours become increasingly intense.

It is along this itinerary that the meaning of Burning Dolomites becomes particularly evident: the Dolomite peaks, already spectacular in their distinctive shapes, are enhanced by the warm, low-angle afternoon and sunset light, while the larches add a rich palette of autumn colours to the landscape.

The combination of clear skies, autumn vegetation and the light of the Enrosadira creates particularly rewarding conditions for photography enthusiasts, who come to Val Gardena at this time of year in search of the perfect conditions to capture the landscape.

Information

The Burning Dolomites experiences are organised by Val Gardena Active. Information, the full programme and bookings are available on the official website.

The Most Beautiful Mountains in the World: The Ultimate Challenge for Every Biker and E-Biker

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dolomiti bici

Mountaineering legend Reinhold Messner famously describes the Dolomites as “the most beautiful mountains in the world”…

For mountain bikers, these spectacular landscapes provide the perfect playground. Alongside breathtaking scenery, the region offers an extensive network of trails ranging from easy rides to the City of Stones (Città dei Sassi) or across the Alpe di Siusi, to more demanding routes designed for riders seeking adrenaline and technical challenges.

Fun is guaranteed, as is the opportunity to discover new and stunning panoramas around every corner. The extraordinary natural beauty of the Dolomites is perfectly suited to cycling, with around 600 kilometres of dedicated biking trails. From the villages of Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva Val Gardena, visitors can choose from 22 guided day tours, all designed to be completed within a single day. Val Gardena is also recognised as an official “Approved Bike Area” of South Tyrol.

The region is not reserved exclusively for experienced riders. Thanks to a wide range of routes, accessible flow trails, skills schools and professional guides, beginners can gradually approach mountain biking and improve their abilities step by step in a safe and enjoyable environment.

For more experienced bikers eager to experience the very best of the Dolomite trails, the highlight is undoubtedly the Sellaronda MTB Track Tour. The two routes circling the Sella Group, which can be ridden clockwise or counter-clockwise, offer spectacular views of the area’s most iconic peaks, including the Marmolada, known as the Queen of the Dolomites.

Those who prefer flow trails will find plenty of excitement in the Val Gardena Trail Arena, which features six dedicated trails offering dynamic and entertaining riding experiences. With the Trail Arena Ticket, riders can use the Dantercepies, Cir, Piz Seteur, Costabella and Ciampinoi lifts, allowing multiple descents throughout the day. It is the ideal solution for both adults and younger cycling enthusiasts.

 

le montagne piu belle del mondo

 

The Skill Park Palmer in Ortisei is the perfect place for anyone looking to learn the fundamentals of mountain biking. Here, riders can develop essential techniques such as braking, correct body positioning and strategies for improving safety on the bike. With the support of professional instructors, every ride becomes progressively safer, more enjoyable and more rewarding, even for complete beginners.

Finally, the new mountain bike map, the website www.mtb-dolomites.com and the trail signage throughout the area provide a comprehensive overview of routes, trails and services available in the region. Everything needed to plan a mountain biking holiday is readily available, including detailed route descriptions and downloadable GPX tracks.

INFO: Val Gardena

Family Summer in Val Gardena: Adventure, Nature and Relaxation.

Published by Mountainblog on .

estate in famiglia

 

From adventure parks to panoramic trails, Val Gardena confirms its status as one of the Alps’ most complete summer destinations for family holidays.

 

In the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites, Val Gardena continues to stand out as one of the Alpine destinations most appreciated by families seeking an active holiday immersed in nature, where relaxation, discovery and fun come together seamlessly. At a time when the desire for authentic experiences and quality outdoor time is growing stronger, this South Tyrolean valley offers an increasingly sought-after balance of hospitality, spectacular scenery and activities suitable for all ages.

Here, the mountains are not simply a landscape to admire, but a place to experience every day. A family summer in Val Gardena means exploring forests, meadows and panoramic trails, while also enjoying suspension courses, zip lines and play areas perfectly integrated into the Alpine environment.

Among the attractions most loved by children and teenagers is Emozion Col de Flam, the adventure park set within the forest featuring aerial obstacle courses, trampolines, a petting zoo and a 680-metre Fly Line. An experience that combines play, movement and adrenaline, allowing younger visitors to experience the mountains in a dynamic and engaging way.

The family-oriented offer continues above Santa Cristina with the PanaRaida nature trail, an experiential route divided into ten stations built using natural materials. Here, play intertwines with environmental education and the discovery of the local territory, along a path designed for both children and adults.

For those looking for more intense thrills, the Monte Pana Zipline is one of the valley’s most spectacular outdoor activities. Secured to a harness, visitors fly for around 1,500 metres suspended up to 100 metres above the ground, reaching speeds close to 100 km/h. An experience that offers a completely new perspective on the Dolomites and attracts numerous enthusiasts every summer.

Direct contact with nature also takes centre stage in areas dedicated to sensory exploration. At the entrance to Vallunga, the Valtoi Kingdom of Senses invites both adults and children to walk barefoot, observe the forest and discover local wildlife along the “Troi di tieres”, an educational trail designed to stimulate curiosity and environmental awareness.

valtoi

A family summer in Val Gardena also means experiencing the mountains through accessible and scenic hikes. The valley offers numerous itineraries suitable even for younger children, combining easy terrain with landscapes of extraordinary beauty.

Among the most appreciated excursions is the circular hike on Resciesa, offering sweeping views of the Odle mountain range and allowing visitors to walk at altitude without facing particularly demanding elevation gains. Equally fascinating is the route through the City of Stones at the foot of the Sassolungo, where enormous boulders scattered across the landscape create an almost surreal environment capable of captivating both adults and children alike.

Vallunga, near Selva di Val Gardena, is one of the area’s most iconic natural settings. Its gentle trails cross meadows and forests dominated by imposing rock faces, offering a hiking experience that is both relaxing and deeply immersive. Here, the silence of the mountains and the grandeur of the Dolomites create the ideal atmosphere for discovery and contemplation.

Alongside outdoor activities, the valley also offers organised programmes specifically designed for younger visitors. With Val Gardena Kids Active, running from mid-June to mid-September, and Val Gardena Junior Active during July and August, children aged 6 to 12 can take part in daily nature-based experiences. Excursions, workshops and recreational activities transform the Dolomites into an open-air educational space where learning and fun go hand in hand.

One of the elements that makes Val Gardena particularly appreciated is also the quality of its hospitality. Ladin tradition is reflected in the warm welcome, cuisine and attention to detail that characterise accommodation facilities and tourist services throughout the valley. Val Gardena also offers advantageous conditions for families and solo parents travelling with children during the low season, from the beginning of the summer season until mid-July and again from late August to late September.

In this context, the holiday experience takes on a meaning that goes beyond a simple tourist stay. Val Gardena offers an experience where time spent together, connection with nature and the authentic dimension of mountain life become the true added value. A place where adventure, relaxation and discovery coexist in perfect balance, transforming every day into an opportunity to experience the Dolomites actively and consciously.

INFO: Val Gardena

Curona de Gherdëina: the 4-day trek around the peaks of Val Gardena

Published by Mountainblog on .

Curona de Gherdëina

 

Curona de Gherdëina: a circular trekking route through mountain huts, high-altitude pastures and UNESCO Dolomite panoramas to discover Val Gardena at the slow rhythm of walking. For those who wish to experience the mountains step by step, at the right pace and with the time needed to appreciate every detail, the Curona de Gherdëina is one of the most fascinating summer experiences in Val Gardena. It is a four-day circular trek crossing some of the most spectacular landscapes of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites, through panoramic mountain huts, high-altitude pastures and imposing rock faces. An itinerary designed for experienced hikers and nature lovers, ideal for immersing yourself in the Alpine soul of the valley and discovering its landscapes in an authentic way.

 

A panoramic loop in the heart of the Dolomites

The Ladin name “Curona de Gherdëina” evokes the image of a true crown of mountains surrounding the valley. The route develops around the area’s symbolic peaks, offering constant views of some of the most iconic mountain groups in the Dolomites, including:

  • Sassolungo
  • Sella Group
  • Odle
  • Seceda
  • Alpe di Siusi

The four days of hiking reveal the full variety of Val Gardena’s landscapes, alternating forests, alpine meadows, mountain passes and vast high-altitude plateaus.

trekking curona

Sleeping in mountain huts and experiencing the mountains

One of the most appreciated aspects of the Curona de Gherdëina is the chance to stay overnight in Alpine huts, experiencing the authentic atmosphere of the mountains up close. After a day on the trails, the hospitality of the hut hosts, traditional dishes and sunsets over the Dolomites turn every stage into a special memory.

The trek therefore becomes not only a sporting adventure, but also a journey of sharing, simplicity and silence.

A flexible route to personalise

The Curona de Gherdëina can be completed in different variations thanks to the extensive network of trails and the presence of lift facilities throughout the valley. This allows hikers to adapt the itinerary according to their fitness level, available time and personal preferences.

An ideal solution for those looking for a structured yet flexible trekking experience, with the freedom to choose their own pace.

Summer 2026: four days to reconnect with nature

At a time when everything moves fast, a multi-day trek is a real invitation to slow down. The Curona de Gherdëina is much more than a hiking route: it is an authentic way to experience the mountains, guided by the rhythm of walking and the extraordinary beauty of the Dolomites.

Four days, one extraordinary valley, emotions that last forever.

INFO: Val Gardena

Val Gardena Summer 2026: 600 km of Trails
in the Heart of the Dolomites

Published by Mountainblog on .

Val gardena sentieri estate

 

With the arrival of the warmer season, Val Gardena confirms itself as one of the most complete Alpine destinations for mountain lovers who enjoy hiking. In the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites, this South Tyrolean valley offers more than 600 kilometres of marked trails, winding through forests, high-altitude meadows, panoramic mountain huts and spectacular rocky landscapes. A true paradise for hikers of every level: from scenic family-friendly walks to more demanding treks across mountain passes, ridgelines and high-altitude routes.

 

A Summer Between Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena

The valley’s three main villages – Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena – are the perfect starting points for an unforgettable summer outdoors. Thanks to the lifts that also operate during the summer season, visitors can easily reach higher altitudes and begin their hikes surrounded by extraordinary scenery. Among the most popular routes are the trails on Seceda, with its iconic Dolomite ridgeline, the walks across Alpe di Siusi, the largest high-altitude plateau in Europe, and the paths leading to the foot of the Sella Group, Sassolungo and the Odle peaks.

Trails for Every Taste

Val Gardena’s extensive hiking network offers a different experience every day:

  • easy walks among farmhouses and flowering meadows
  • panoramic hikes to mountain huts and alpine lodges
  • high-altitude routes among the great Dolomite peaks
  • themed trails for families and children
  • sporty excursions with significant elevation gain.

Whether setting off for a few hours or a full day, every route rewards visitors with unforgettable views and the authentic pleasure of walking in nature.

Nature, Culture and Ladin Tradition

Walking in Val Gardena also means discovering a region rich in history and identity. The Ladin culture, still alive and deeply rooted today, accompanies travellers through traditional architecture, local gastronomy and a strong connection with the mountains. The huts and lodges along the trails become perfect places to pause and enjoy Alpine flavours, genuine hospitality and breathtaking views.

Summer 2026: Experience the Mountains Step by Step

For those dreaming of an active, regenerating holiday immersed in nature, Val Gardena Summer 2026 is an ideal choice. With its 600 km of trails, the valley invites visitors to slow down, breathe deeply and be guided by the beauty of the Dolomites. Every step is an invitation to discover. Every trail, a new adventure.

INFO: Val Gardena

Heading toward the 28th Südtirol Gardenissima:
the longest giant slalom in the world

Published by Mountainblog on .

sudtirol gardenissima 2026


Südtirol Gardenissima: next Saturday, March 29, athletes and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to compete on the very same course as champions and Ski Legends, in one of the most highly anticipated events of the late season. The following day will be dedicated to the young rising stars of the sport.

There is now very little time left until the 28th edition of the Südtirol Gardenissima, the longest giant slalom in the world and one of the most eagerly awaited events of the ski season in Val Gardena. Combining competition, passion, and fun, the event has long been a true institution for ski lovers and traditionally marks one of the final major highlights of winter on the Dolomite slopes. The ski lifts will, in fact, remain open until April 6, allowing visitors to extend their ski holidays for a few more days.

The heart of the event will take place on Saturday, March 29, 2026, when skiers of all levels—from professionals to amateurs—will be able to test themselves on a course approximately 6 kilometers long, experiencing the thrill of comparing their times with those of FIS Alpine Ski World Cup champions and renowned skiing legends.

Among the men are Alex Vinatzer, Christof Innerhofer, Mattia Casse, Max Perathoner, Daniel Hemetsberger, Manuel Traninger, Miha Hrobat, Romed Baumann, Simon Jocher, Albert Ortega Fornesa, Simon Mauerberger, and others.

Among the women: Nicol and Nadia Delago, Franziska Gritsch, Christina Ager, Emily Schöpf, Viktoria Olivier, Adriana Jelinkova, and others.

Among the ski legends, notable names include Isolde Kostner, Verena Stuffer, Paola Magoni, Brigitte Obermoser, Andrea Fischbacher, Tanja Schneider and, among the men, Kristian Ghedina, Peter Runggaldier, and many more.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Südtirol Gardenissima is precisely the unique opportunity to share the same race with champions and icons of alpine skiing: participants and spectators can meet them, talk to them, and even compete against them on the same course.

The race will start from Seceda, where around 700 skiers from 24 countries will tackle 115 gates along a course with over 1,000 meters of vertical drop.

The course unfolds across the sunny Seceda plateau, with the start at 2,518 meters above sea level at the foot of the imposing Odle peaks. In the first section, two skiers will descend in parallel for approximately 1,500 meters, offering the audience a direct and adrenaline-filled head-to-head challenge. The two routes will then merge into a single track leading to the finish line, located at the Col Raiser valley station (1,485 m).

The day’s program includes course inspection at 6:15 a.m. and the race start at 7:30 a.m. The event will also be followed internationally via a livestream, alternating athletes’ runs with spectacular footage and interviews conducted both at the старт and in the finish area.

sudtirol gardenissima DSC


Meet the champions and Ski Test

Another highly anticipated moment is the autograph session, organized during the race bib distribution: fans will have the chance to meet top skiers, take photos, and request autographs. The event is scheduled for Friday, March 28, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., at the Pitla Sala Cultural Center in Selva di Val Gardena.

On March 27, 28, and 29, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., a Ski Test will also take place on the Curona slope, near the Gardenissima course. Enthusiasts will have the opportunity to preview and test the latest equipment for the upcoming season, provided by the most prestigious brands in the industry.

The award ceremony will be held at 3:00 p.m. in the finish area at Col Raiser.

Südtirol Gardenissima Kids

The following day, Sunday, March 29, 2026, will host the 10th edition of the Gardenissima Kids, dedicated to the sport’s young talents. Around 300 children from 12 countries will compete on a 1.9 km course, starting from Seceda and finishing at the valley station of the Fermeda chairlift. The старт is scheduled for 8:30 a.m., and the young athletes will face a vertical drop of 463 meters.

Final Party

The day will conclude on Saturday with the After Race Party, taking place from 4:00 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. at Col da Mulin Bridge, at the Aprés Ski La Stua Aprés Ski venue, featuring music by the Dorfrocker and Matty Valentino.

Livestreaming and further information: Südtirol Gardenissima

Val Gardena Winter Finals 2026: Ski & Fun in Val Gardena

Published by Mountainblog on .

val gardena winter finals

Val Gardena Winter Finals: from 1 to 6 April, the ski season in Val Gardena will come to an end with music, skiing, fun and a touch of madness.

Val Gardena Winter Finals is an exclusive event packed with adrenaline, culinary delights and music. For six days, Selva di Val Gardena will become an open-air stage celebrating the perfect “Alpine Lifestyle” under the spring sunshine.

Every day, the most exclusive mountain huts in Val Gardena will turn into elegant lounges set against the stunning peaks of the Dolomites (UNESCO World Heritage Site), where guests can enjoy local cuisine while listening to great music ranging from relaxing sounds to energetic beats.

The venues will be: on 1 April at Dantercepies Mountain Lounge, followed by Baita Salei on 2 April and Piz Seteur on 3 April.

On 4 April, tradition will take centre stage with the classic white sausage festival at Baita Salei, alongside the lively “Lockenfest” in Plan de Gralba, followed by an electrifying evening at the Après Ski Snowbar.

The highlight will take place on 5 April with the Gran Finale. The centre of Selva di Val Gardena will transform into a grand stage where music, lights and atmosphere blend into a truly spectacular experience. National and international DJs will lead the evening, bringing the season to a stylish and engaging close.

 

val gardena winter finals concert

 

In addition to Val Gardena Winter Finals, the month of March will also offer plenty of entertainment, combined with excellent cuisine and lots of sport.

First of all, with the concerts of Rock the Dolomites, from Thursday 19 to Saturday 28 March, when rock music will once again take centre stage on the sunny terraces of mountain huts and lodges along the legendary slopes of Selva di Val Gardena. Enthusiasts will be able to dance and have fun surrounded by the most beautiful mountains in the world. Now in its twelfth edition, this event has become one of the most evocative music festivals in the Alpine region, set among the iconic peaks of the Dolomites. This year as well, Rock the Dolomites will bring concerts and performances to exceptional locations, transforming mountain huts and natural spaces into open-air stages. An event that goes beyond the traditional concept of a festival, offering the public the chance to experience music immersed in nature, surrounded by spectacular scenery and fresh mountain air.

The Spring Race Party, on 21 March, will be a true celebration of madness and eccentricity: an unconventional race featuring 50 teams plus one “Charity” team, each made up of six participants accompanied by a ski instructor. They will ski down La Longia, the longest slope in the Dolomites, dressed in fun and quirky outfits. The teams will not only compete to arrive first, as the race includes several stops at different mountain huts where mini-games and small challenges must be completed to achieve the highest overall score.

In addition, the team with the most extravagant costume will be selected and voted for by the public and will secure a place at the Spring Race Party 2027, while the overall winning team will receive a prize worth €1,000.

At the end of March, on the weekend of 28 and 29 March, the 28th edition of the Südtirol Gardenissima will take place, an iconic ski competition with around 700 participants who will have the honour and challenge of tackling the longest giant slalom course in the world, measuring 6 kilometres. One of the race’s special features is that, among the various categories, there will once again be Ski World Cup athletes and former champions (Old Stars), giving all participants the opportunity to compare their times with their lifelong idols. The following day, as tradition dictates, the Südtirol Gardenissima Kids will be held, dedicated to the next generation of ski champions and increasingly popular among ski clubs: 300 young athletes from all over the world will compete in a challenging slalom on a spectacular 2-kilometre course with a vertical drop of 463 metres.

Furthermore, from 14 March 2026, with the Dolomiti Springdays offer, visitors will benefit from exclusive promotions on accommodation, ski passes and rentals for the final days of the ski season.

INFO: Val Gardena