Christmas in Val Gardena is somewhat of a tradition, yet more than in any other corner of the world. The three main villages prepare to spend this magical period following their traditions. Selva di Val Gardena is ready to stage ‘Mountain Christmas’. The mountain village is located in the heart of the Dolomites, at the foot of the Sella Massif, it’s the highest village in Val Gardena, resting on the legendary ski-tour ‘Sella Ronda’ where skiing means having a blast on over 500 km of slopes.
This season too, the feel of the ski slopes will be transferred to the traffic-free part of the village between 7 December 2017 and 7 January 2018, thanks to an uninterrupted strip of floodlit area of approximately 350 metres, and 12 small wooden cable car pods where you can sample gingerbread, mulled wine, homemade cakes, artisanal chocolate, and purchase unique gifts for next Christmas.
A swirling array of Christmas decorations and twinkling lights, together with the sweet tunes of Christmas Carols will uplift the spirits of everyone and light that spark of happiness and surprise in the eyes of children. Moreover, the traditional art of sculpting in Val Gardena will be showcased in the beautiful nativity scene exhibition. www.mountain-christmas.com
Ortisei will become a Christmas Village (from 1 December to 6 January), shrouded in fairy lights. The market will be carefully prepared, steeped in a unique atmosphere where Christmas Carols will ring in the air, and tourists can taste homemade bakes, touch wooden hand carved objects, admire the lights and surroundings, and catch a tempting waft of food and wood which will warm up the atmosphere. A run-up to Christmas bursting with emotions and experiences. The stands sport countless products, all original and authentic, from sculptures, wooden tools, Advent wreaths, lanterns and frames, candles to felt products.
Choirs will perform every day and the mountain horns will fill the valleys, and you can take part in courses to learn how to create traditional wooden Ladin tools or recipes.
Children will also be able to send their letters in a dedicated post box on Piazza Stetteneck, knowing they will reach Father Christmas’ house safe and sound.
The Santa Cristina Christmas Market traditionally offers typical products, crafts, and local cooking. The varied offer of Tyrolean sweets and specialties will delight the palate of visitors, who can also attend live performances of local wood-carving masters and listen to mountain music and melodies. Every weekend and on festivities, between 10 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. gingerbread biscuits and delicious ‘Spitzbuben’, shortcrust pastry biscuits filled with apricot marmalade, will be taken hot out of the oven. www.mercatino-natale.it/ita/index.htm
Val Gardena yet again cements its reputation as the ‘Christmas Valley’, offering plenty of events dedicated to the most important celebration of the year – have a look at the event calendar.
INFO: Val Gardena
According to a recent Enit survey, the National Tourism Agency, recently reported by the national daily newspaper La Stampa, the summer season just ended can be defined as the summer of records in the Alpine area. A sign of the times, which leads people to prefer quieter and less crowded destinations, but also a sign of a reversal of the trend: it is no longer true that in summer Italians prefer white beaches.
More and more persons prefer the mountains
People seem to be increasingly attracted by the mountains and the authentic hospitality of the various Alpine resorts, they able to guarantee a tourist offer that ranges from culture to sport, from nature to typical food and wine. A revolution, especially if you think that until a few years ago the summer holiday in the mountains was considered “démodé” and was chosen only by 15% of Italians (Eumetra 2016 survey). This year, on the other hand, mountain holidays have become trendy, especially if spent in famous locations.
Val Gardena is the most appreciated Alpine destination
According to the well-known Italian daily newspaper, the Dolomites (a UNESCO World Heritage) also took advantage of this boom and proved to be the most popular Alpine destination. Val Gardena in particular is considered the most popular and enjoyable Alpine destination in Italy, ahead of Val di Fassa, Courmayeur and Madonna di Campiglio.
“This news naturally fills us with great pride and can be considered as the just recognition for the great work done in recent years by all the tourist operators in Val Gardena” explains Günther Pitscheider, Director of Val Gardena-Gröden Marketing. Coming out top – underlines Pitscheider – is a strong signal that the path taken is the right one, and gives us further motivation to continue along it”.
INFO: Val Gardena
A giant family of snowmen, the gentle sound of bells on a reindeer-drawn sleigh passing by and children’s laughter in the air: Croda Rossa / Rotwand with its sunny slopes and cuddly residents is only one among many beautifully snow-steeped sites in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites. This is where family dreams come true, over and over again. The charming ski resort features both skiing fun for grown-ups and entertainment for the little ones. Not forgetting the adjacent peaks, frozen-over mountain lakes and the valleys that offer a great choice of additional exciting experiences.
Located at the heart of the Dolomites, the snow-covered holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites with its quaint holiday resorts of Sesto/Sexten, San Candido/Innichen, Dobbiaco/Toblach, Villabassa/Niederdorf and Braies/Prags is a favorite among winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers of all ages. The area formerly known as Alta Pusteria / Hochpustertal offers great fun, relaxation and lots of activities. The giant family of snowmen on Croda Rossa, a popular backdrop for that annual family photo, is only one of many elaborate details the destination holds in store for younger guests.
On the Rudy Reindeer Trail for example, an educational ski training track, little skiers get to know new techniques through playful elements. Croda Rossa’s herd of reindeer, the smallest in the Alps and the only one in Italy, is a big hit with children, and there are many more animals to be discovered down in the valley, at the Gustav Mahler Wildlife Park in Dobbiaco. Deer, lynx, mouflons, wild boars, snowy owls raccoons and many other species await visitors daily from 9 am through 6 pm. The park only stays closed on Thursdays.
Meanwhile, the family-friendly Monte Baranci/Haunold ski area provides lots of action-packed fun: On a designated kids ski-cross run juniors get the chance to train their skills, and the snow tubing run sends them – and courageous parents, too – off on a ride on special tyres down the snow-covered mountain. Those who just can’t get enough of the great outdoors are twice a week able to hit the floodlit slopes for some night-skiing or tobogganing. Next to the mighty Monte Baranci Croda Rossa and Signaue also make for some excellent “down-hilling” thanks to lifts that take both people and their toboggans comfortably to the start.
As fast-paced things may be mountainside, a magical winter wonderland welcomes visitors down in the valley: Throughout the season, horse-drawn carriages take families on romantic sleigh rides through glittering forests. Lago di Braies / Pragser Wildsee is a popular destination during these tours as it lies embedded in mystical peace, enchanted as if touched by the Snow Queen – a miraculous place for all generations. Last but not least, the ice rinks of Dobbiaco, Villabassa, Sesto and San Candido are a must for fans of ice skating.
For further details on activities and family-friendly accommodation in the holiday region Three Peaks in the Dolomites see www.drei-zinnen.info.
INFO: Three Peaks Dolomites
Val Gardena, after a long and elaborate process over several phases has presented a new strategy which has as its driving element the brand DOLOMITES.
At a “kick-off” event of the Tourism Associations of Ortisei, S. Cristina and Selva, the results of this strategic process were presented to the public, a process which has resulted in the creation of a new Val Gardena logo, it integrated with that of Dolomites, and so by opening a possible prospective for the other valleys of the Dolomites.
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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.
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
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.
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
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
