Val Gardena (Gröden)

Val Gardena, also known as Gröden, is a renowned ski valley located in the Dolomites of Northern Italy. 

Nestled in the South Tyrol region, Val Gardena offers stunning alpine scenery, a rich history, and world-class skiing opportunities. 

The ski area is part of the larger Dolomiti Superski region, which boasts an extensive collection of ski areas across the Dolomites. 

When it comes to accessing the ski area, Val Gardena offers excellent connections. The resort is well-served by efficient lift systems, providing direct access to the slopes from various points within the villages. It's spilt into 2 seperate areas, accessed from different towns. 

The key towns are Selva Wolkenstein and St Christina (one interconnected area) and Ortisei St Ultrich and Susi (Alpe di susi ski area) 

Selva area connects direct to the world renowned ski circuit, the Sella Ronda - so stay here if you're wanting to ski this route and connect to the Alta Badia, Val di fassa and Arabba areas. This will require the wider Dolomiti SuperSki pass, rather than the local Val Gardena. A ski bus link or a car is required to ski both ski areas in Val Gardena, no town has access to both. 

Ortisei and St Christina are your best options to straddle both areas in your stay. 

Selva di Val Gardena, also known as Wolkenstein, is the largest and most vibrant town, offering a bustling atmosphere, a wide range of accommodations, and a lively après-ski scene. It's a popular choice for those seeking a lively social experience and convenient access to the slopes. 

In contrast, Ortisei, the main town of Val Gardena, exudes a more traditional and relaxed ambiance. It features picturesque streets lined with charming shops, boutiques, and restaurants, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage. 

Lastly, Santa Cristina, nestled between Selva di Val Gardena and Ortisei, strikes a balance between the two.

All 3 of these sit in the core "Val Gardena". 

Alpe di Susi is an area in its own right, and there's several towns outside Val Gardena that connect in, Castelrotto (Kastelruth) is the largest town in the area and serves as a gateway to the ski slopes. It features a traditional Tyrolean atmosphere with colorful facades, cozy cafes, and historical landmarks. 

Siusi allo Sciliar (Seis am Schlern) is another enchanting town known for its idyllic setting at the foot of the imposing Sciliar massif. It offers a blend of traditional Alpine architecture, charming shops, and excellent dining options. 

Finally, Compatsch (Compaccio) is a smaller village located directly on the Alpe di Siusi plateau. 

Val Gardena is particularly well-suited for intermediate skiers, offering a wide range of red (intermediate) runs that provide enjoyable challenges and breathtaking views. 

In addition to its exceptional skiing opportunities, Val Gardena also has a vibrant après-ski scene. The village offers a diverse selection of restaurants, bars, and cafés where visitors can relax and socialize after a day on the slopes. From cozy mountain huts serving traditional Italian cuisine to lively bars with live music, there is something to suit every taste.