Val Gardena has what some may call an international siren call, as proven by the numerous tourists from all corners of the world and its membership of the ‘Leading Mountain Resorts of the World’, an association which pools all main mountain tourist destinations which offer high-quality holidays.
Besides Val Gardena, Saas Fee (Switzerland), Åre (Sweden), Banff/Lake Louise (Canada), Bariloche (South America) and Queenstown (New Zealand) are also part of this elite group.
In the last years, Val Gardena has received numerous recognitions, including five stars as ‘best skiing area’ by German website skiresort.de, one of the most important in the world for assessing skiing areas. Moreover, famous travel portal Trip Advisor awarded Selva Val Gardena the 6th place out of the top 10 most voted in the annual ‘Travellers Choice Award’ where tourists vote the best holiday destinations, placing just after the city of art par excellence and some beach locations.
Start and end of season offers.
All Dolomiti Superski ski passes (daily and multiday 2-28 days) are free for children up to 8 when purchased with the same type and duration adult ski pass. Even young skiers are entitled to discounts of 30%. If you’re hunting for a bargain, i.e. a beautiful holiday in Val Gardena for a deal, there are very interesting start and end of season offers.
From 25 November to 24 December 2016, the SuperPremière offers will allow you to spend 4 nights with ski pass and rental of equipment for the price of 3. From 18 March to end of the season, the Val Gardena Family Special, many establishments taking part in the initiative, will offer accommodation, ski pass and free hire, as well as special discounts for children. Moreover Val Gardena SuperSun will offer 7 nights for the price of 6 and ski rental for 6 days for the price of 5. Further information at www.valgardena.it.
Highlights – winter sports
Fis Ski World Cup: 16/17 December 2016
Vertical Up 21 January 2017
Skitouring MOVE: 11 March 2017
Sellaronda Skimarathon: 24 March 2017
Südtirol Gardenissima: 01 April 2017
Südtirol Gardenissima KIDS 02 April 2017
Highlights – culture
Christmas Market: 2 December 2016/8 January 2017, S. Cristina
Christmas Village: 1 December 2016/8 January 2017, Ortisei
Mountain Christmas 2 December 2016/8 January 2017, Selva
Snow sculpture competition: 27/30 December 2016, Selva
Ice sculpture competition: 20 January 2017, Ortisei
Rock The Dolomites 12/19 March 2017, Selva.
INFO: Val Gardena
The Organizing Committee of the Ski World Cup is presenting a new and interesting event with VAL GARDENA – GRÖDEN VERTICAL UP.
While each December the world’s best speed specialists thunder down the Saslong from Start to Finish fighting for record times, on January 21st, 2017, endurance specialists will try to achieve the opposite by completing the climb from Finish to Start in the shortest time. It means that they will try to conquer the classic World Cup course uphill from bottom to top as quickly as possible.
There are two options: the long and the short distance. The original course measured 3.5 km and 830 m in altitude difference; the shortened track is 1.986 km long and has an altitude difference of 590 m. The Start is at 1410 m above sea level, the Finish at 2249 and 2000 m, respectively. The maximum gradient is 56%, the average gradient 24.5%.
What’s most interesting about the competition is that there are practically no rules: the choice of materials and equipment is free, as long as the ascent is propelled by one’s own power. Light is provided by head lamps and key sections are additionally lit by standing lights provided by the OC. The ascent lines of both routes are also free of choice.
Men and women will be ranked separately: there is a speed and a backpack category. The Speed Class winner is who is fastest at vertically mastering the Saslong. Ranks 1-6 will be awarded cash prizes. There are also gift certificates and non-cash prizes to be won. The Back-pack Class crowns the participant who clocks the time closest to the average time of all participants. An absolute “entertainment competition”. A maximum of 1500 athletes are allowed at the start.
In addition to the general and category ranking, there are also regional and team rankings. And there is a special prize for whoever reaches the Camel Humps first. Same goes for the athlete who conquers the steepest part (the “spinel” or back) in the shortest amount of time.
Registration begins on October 10th, 2016 at 8:16 PM and closes on January 14th, 2017 at 8:00 pm CET. Late entries at an extra fee accepted at the race office January 21st, 2017 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
VERTICAL UP venues include:
- Hinterstoder (Hannes Trinkl Course) 7.01.2017
- Val Gardena-Gröden (Saslong) 21.01.2017
- Pinzolo-Madonna di Campiglio (Tulot Audi course) 28.01.2017
- Kitzbühel (Streif) 25.02.2017
- Wengen (Lauberhorn) 25.03.2017
INFO: VAL GARDENA – GRÖDEN VERTICAL UP
Val Gardena
Put on your walking shoes and march off: Autumn time is hiking time in South Tyrol’s Alta Pusteria. The region features a sheer endless array of sporting highlights like the Dolomites Alpine Week or the Dolomites autumn weeks, within a diverse choice of tours and beautiful views all around the landmark, the Three Peaks. A special highlight is also the “cable car journey to the sunrise”.
For the adventurous: The Dolomites Alpine Week
If the scent of autumn lies in the air, the South Tyrol’s Alta Pusteria attracts with numerous travelling packages at its townships Sesto/Sexten, San Candido/Innichen, Dobbiaco/Toblach, Villabassa/Niederdorf and Braies/Prags. From the 10th to the 24th of September the Dolomites alpine week provides the participants with a one-week activity programme, including hosted mountain hikes and half day hiking tours.
For beginners: The Dolomite autumn weeks
From 24th of September to the 16th of October 2016 guests of the participating accommodations can use numerous mountain railways free of charge to reach various starting points of marvellous hikes/wanderings.
For hiking lovers: Lodge tour to Rifugio Comici, Rifugio Pian di Cengia and Rifugio Locatelli hut
Stamina, perseverance and experience are demanded on the lodge tour to Rifugio Comici, Rifugio Pian di Cengia and Rifugio Locatelli hut. The 17 kilometre takes a minimum of seven hours and provides the hikers from June to October with the nicest view of the surrounding mountains.
For real perseverance junkies: Stoneman Hike Trail
The trekking tour features a 54 kilometre journey through South Tyrol’s Dolomites, on which several stamps at three checkpoints have to be collected. At the end of the tour hikers receive the Stoneman trophy. The starter package costs 39 euros per person.
For romantics: “Cable car journey to the sunrise”
The ride takes place until 15th of September 2016 and offers an unforgettable moment. At the break of sunrise the panoramic cable car Sexten takes visitors up to the 2,050 metres high mountain Monte Elmo/Helm. The ride costs 17,30 euros each.
Photos credits:
1) Consorzio Turistico Alta Pusteria photogruener
2) Drei Zinnen AG C.Tschurtschenthaler
3) Consorzio Turistico Alta Pusteria H.Wisthaler
INFO: Alta Pusteria
Val Gardena (Italy) proves once again that it is not only a pioneer in the ski industry, but also one of the most modern ski areas in the Alps.
For the upcoming winter season 2016/17 the brand new 8-seater chairlift with heated seats will replace the current “Gran Paradiso” skilift on Piz Sella. It will be the first in Italy to boast heated seats!
Moreover, the modern system will have even more to offer in that the route of the new chairlift will be a little longer than previously so that winter sport lovers will have a direct connection not only to the Sellaronda in the counterclockwise (green) direction but also towards Passo Sella and the mystical “City of Stones”.
The new chairlift is a real eye-catcher, for instead of the classic grey, transparent cupolas blue ones have been mounted and they will provide even greater comfort for skiers.
The chairlift will be open from early December 2016.
Technical details of the new chairlift “Gran Paradiso” as produced by Leitner:
- Length: 1005.71 m
- Altitude difference: 231.00 m
- Capacity: 2,200 people / h
- Journey time: 3min 21’
INFO: Val Gardena
Wood carving has a long tradition in Val Gardena. Around the year 1600 some families, during winter time, started carving tools, religious figures and children’s toys in their homes. In the late 18th century, the carving trade became a major branch of the economy. Art schools and vocational colleges were set up, and a modern industry took shape.
The Val Gardena wood carvers introduced new procedures and created an innovative and versatile arts and crafts industry, with levels of workmanship second to none. It is therefore not surprising that one of Val Gardena’s visitor attractions is the world’s largest hand-carved manger in S. Cristina.
If you would like to watch our artists at work there are various demonstrations, or visit our traditional farmers’ and crafts market on 30 August in S. Cristina‘s pedestrian precinct, or how about the unique Val Gardena sculpture fair, UNIKA, between 1 and 4 September 2016?
More information at www.unika.it Judith Sotriffer, a young artist from Ortisei, has a workshop where she carves replicas of traditional wooden toys from the region. The originals, from the 17th century, are on display at the local history museum: www.museumgherdeina.it
INFO: Val Gardena
This weekend Sheffield welcomes 80 competitors to The British Bouldering Championship (BBC) in the heart of The Outdoor City. Headlining Sheffield’s major outdoor festival, Cliffhanger, the BBC is a not-to-be-missed spectator event whether you have a passion for climbing or just love the white knuckle thrills of a live competition. Expected to attract crowds of over 6000 to Devonshire Green over Saturday 9 July and Sunday 10 July, this is the first time the BBC has been hosted in Sheffield city centre and is free to watch.
The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) will be livestreaming all the action with world-class climbers Mina Leslie-Wujastyk and Gaz Parry, both former competitors in the BBCs themselves, commentating on the action as it happens. You can watch the live broadcast from the BMC website here.
Veteran British boulderer Dave Barrans, a regular competitor in the World Cup series is favourite in the Men’s category, whilst Sheffield’s own *IFSC World Cup champ and last year’s BBC winner Shauna Coxsey will be battling to retain her crown.
We spoke to Sheffield climbing talent Shauna Coxsey and asked how she felt about competing centre-stage in the city she calls home: “Winning the British Bouldering Championships here in Sheffield last year was amazing. I am excited to now call Sheffield my home and I’m really looking forward to competing in the city centre this year against some of Britain’s most talented climbers. There is a huge community of climbers and outdoor adventurers in the city. It’s clear why Sheffield is The Outdoor City.
“The Women’s Climbing Symposium 2015 took place in Sheffield and it really showed how strong the climbing community is here. It’s been great to see our community connecting with mountain bikers, runners, cyclists and walkers through The Outdoor City to celebrate and inspire each other. Having recently won the overall world title, I am excited to defend my British title right here in Sheffield– it doesn’t get much better than that.”
In true Sheffield style, whilst the serious contenders for this year’s competition are getting psyched, spectators and Cliffhanger Festival goers can enjoy live music, food and drinks on Friday and Saturday night.
Cllr Leigh Bramall, Deputy Leader of Sheffield City Council and Cabinet Member for Business and Economy said: “To say this year’s competition and the wider Cliffhanger Festival is going to be the best yet is an understatement. Moving it to the city centre means that even more people are going to be able to enjoy this gripping competition for free. Sheffield has a longstanding reputation for climbing, attracting everyone from world class talent to people that head out to the grit stone in the Peak District over the weekend to unwind. Many of this year’s competitors actually train here in Sheffield and the British Team meet regularly at The Climbing Works. Climbing is synonymous with Sheffield but we also have huge ride, walk and run communities and events like this bring everyone together to experience the full outdoor offer right here in the city centre.”
INFO: Sheffield
Why travel far when hidden between the majestic peaks of South Tyrol’s Alta Pusteria/Hochpustertal lies a true vacation paradise. The quaint valley with its villages of Sesto/Sexten, San Candido/Innichen, Dobbiaco/Toblach, Villabassa/Niederdorf and Braies/Prags offers the perfect mix for a truly relaxed and unique summer escape.
1. You are what you eat – Culinary delights in the Alta Pusteria
Highest quality standards and close ties to their roots are the number one characteristics that mark South Tyrol’s Alta Pusteria region and make such a big difference it can even be tasted – at the Alpe Pragas manufacture for example, which uses only the best fruit right from the valley for its delicious jams, or at the cheese dairy Three Peaks/Drei Zinnen in Dobbiaco, where visitors are taught interesting facts about the art of dairy processing and cheese making. Many restaurants and mountain cabins invite guests to try traditional South Tyrolean cuisine including dumplings, “Schlutzkrapfen” and other culinary delights to nourish body and soul.
2. For sports enthusiasts and nature lovers – Hiking the Alta Pusteria
Those looking for a gentle, easy-going start should take the one-hour family-friendly hike around Lake Braies, which is set against a beautiful backdrop of lush greens and mountain peaks. The more ambitious might continue on from the lake to the alpine huts “Colle Alti” and the “Lago dei Colli Alti”, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites.
3. The power of water – Kneipp therapy in the Alta Pusteria
Want to give those tired feet an extra treat after a long day of hiking? Italy’s first Kneipp Active Park “Kneipp für mich®” in Villabassa features both standard elements like cold-water treading and facial and arm baths as well as options like a barefoot path, early morning walks in the wet grass, an “outdoor inhalatorium”, a drinking pavilion and, for sore feet, anti-inflammatory and cooling mudpacks.
4. For a refreshing summer splash – Taking a dip in Lake Dobbiaco
Taking a dip on a hot summer day in Lake Dobbiaco, a true natural jewel, is great fun and a wonderfully refreshing experience for the entire family while enjoying unique views of the Landro valley. There are a non-swimmer’s and a regular pool. Both are chlorine-free and kept clean naturally in two separate treatment areas.
5. Made in heaven – The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Anyone who has ever visited the Alta Pusteria will be drawn back over and over again to this quaint valley, not least because of the fascinating landscape around the area’s famous landmark and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Three Peaks, an attraction both during summer and winter. This is where majestic mountains join scenic valleys, where lush Alpine meadows are found next to green forests, and picturesque lakes join unspoilt creeks and springs.
INFO: Alta Pusteria
Val Gardena has tours for all hiking enthusiasts, whether classic pleasure walks, hill runs or challenging climbing ventures.
In our programme, Val Gardena Active, you will find your perfect outing: experience the beautiful Val Gardena landscape with a guided tour in the Puez-Geisler nature reserve, a walk at sunrise with some wildlife watching, a mountain bike adventure or a culinary tour of mountain huts.
We also offer a Kids Active programme from June to September. For children, the Dolomites are a treasure trove of adventures. They can test their courage at the highwire adventure course, follow the UNESCO trail or discover some magic herbs.
More information: Val Gardena Active
In recent years, Val Gardena has developed into a holiday resort with lifestyle character while at the same time maintaining the traditional culture, language and charm of a mountain village. In Ortisei, but also elsewhere, shopping streets, pedestrianised areas in the centre with boutiques, speciality restaurants, vinotheques and art galleries invite you on a voyage of discovery.
The Photoacademy Val Gardena is a completely new event this year. It will take place between 3 and 11 September 2016, and the event focuses on finding the perfect shooting angle. Participants can learn the basics of fine art photography a nature photography with South Tyrolean experts during a series of workshops. The details and expert tricks are delivered by famous photographer Daniel Ernst. The works of art can be admired at the vernissage in Selva Val Gardena,S. Cristina and Ortisei. At the end of the week the winners of the photo competition will be announced and awarded for the ‘Best Val Gardena Poster’.
Many summer events feature culinary delights: the “Sëira dl vin” in S. Cristina on 8 July 2016 is a celebration of wine – on the red carpet. Another food event is the Val Gardena Sky Dinner on 13 July 2016, an exclusive candlelit dinner in the gondolas of the “Mont Sëuc” cable car. Traditional Val Gardena dresses are at the centre of festivities like “Gardena in costume” on 7 August 2016 in Selva. Gourmets as well as lovers of art and tradition will flock to S. Cristina. A further highlight is the “Aperitif Urtijëi” between 17 July 2016 and 28 August 2016 when Ortisei’s five “Fine Dine” restaurants serve traditional South Tyrol fare in the village’s pedestrian precinct.
Val Gardena’s events calendar also features a number of musical highlights. Fans of classical music will enjoy ValgardenaMusika, a series of events from July to September 2016. This consists of six classical concerts in various Val Gardena venues, www.jmgconcert.it.
Those preferring music out in the open can enjoy a unique open-air concert at the foot of Sassolungo on 26 June 2016. The South Tyrol Jazz Festival makes a stopover at the Comici Hut in Selva Val Gardena. Finally, following the traditional snow festival on 17 August 2016 in Selva will whet everyone’s appetite for the coming winter season – “Winter is on its way!”
INFO: Val Gardena
Mountain fanatics will enjoy many events and activities this summer. One example is the “Curona de Gherdëina“, a 5-day trekking tour from Passo Gardena via Bamberg Hut and Alpe di Siusi – Europe’s largest alpine pasture – to Ortisei, then returning via the largely flat Innerraschötzer Alm back to Passo Gardena. From 30 June to 3 July and from 15 – 18 September 2016 this trekking experience is offered as a guided group tour.
Alpine climbing is also on offered during the ‘MOVE – Feel the Dolomites’ Climbing Festival: beginners will be taught in outdoor camps how to climb between 24 and 31 July 2016. Advanced climbers will receive tips from experts on how to improbe their stamina and technique. On top of that, outdoor brands will be offering their new collection and climbing material for a test run. www.move-dolomites.it
Those interested in other, more challenging hikes will find many experienced guides to accompany them.
GPS data for mountain and hiking tours are available for downloading on a dedicated website: www.dolomitesalpine.it
INFO: Val Gardena
