Val Gardena: Italy’s Top Ski Destination Opens the 2025–2026 Winter Season on December 4th
In Val Gardena – repeatedly voted the best ski area in the Dolomites and in all of Italy – the winter season will run from December 4, 2025, to April 7, 2026.
With over 500 kilometers of perfectly groomed slopes, direct access to the world’s largest ski carousel, and a completely renewed black run, Val Gardena is gearing up for a record-breaking winter. From early December to April, skiers can once again enjoy the slopes of the Val Gardena/Alpe di Siusi ski area and experience the legendary Sellaronda, surrounded by the stunning scenery of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites.
A Winter of Major Events and Sustainability
Recognized multiple times as Italy’s top ski destination, Val Gardena continues to shine as a global hub for winter sports. Sixty-one years after hosting the legendary 1970 World Championships, the FIS has officially assigned the 2031 Alpine World Ski Championships to this Ladin valley.
This return combines innovation, passion, and tradition, with the goal of creating a sustainable event that will leave a lasting legacy for the region — in mobility, infrastructure, and environmental responsibility.
New Slopes and Projects
This summer saw major modernization works, including the redesign of the final section of the Ciampinoi No.3 slope, now wider and smoother. The new west-facing track, which descends to the Ciampinoi base station, will also host technical disciplines during the 2031 World Championships.
In the coming years, a new bridge will be built to serve as the official finish line, making the area even more spectacular and functional.
Global Connections and Accessibility
Through its partnership with Dolomiti Superski, Val Gardena is now officially part of the IKON Pass network – the global ski pass that connects 15 destinations in North America and 29 more worldwide.
European skiers can also reach the valley in just three hours thanks to SkyAlps flights to Bolzano, with direct connections from Düsseldorf, Berlin, London, Copenhagen, and Warsaw. From the airport, a 45-minute transfer brings guests directly into the heart of Val Gardena.
The Legendary 8: The True Soul of Val Gardena
Every slope in Val Gardena tells a story – but eight of them truly capture the valley’s spirit. Known as the Legendary 8, these iconic runs embody more than a century of ski tradition.
From the Saslong, the world-famous World Cup course, to the Ciampinoi No.3, the steep one; from the romantic Bravo to the modern Pilat, inaugurated in 2022 – each run offers unique thrills and breathtaking Dolomite panoramas.
Skiers can also take part in an interactive challenge through the new “The Legendary 8” app, earning points and winning prizes right from their smartphone.
An Invitation to Experience the Dolomitic Winter
With its perfect mix of guaranteed snow (98% of slopes covered by artificial snow), international events, authentic Ladin hospitality, and cutting-edge technology, Val Gardena remains one of the most iconic destinations in the Alps.
A place where mountain passion meets history – where every turn, every peak, and every slope tells the story of a genuine love for skiing.
INFO: Val Gardena
