Skiing in Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi: Ultimate Guide to Italy’s Best Ski Resort

A person in a red jacket is standing on a covered conveyor belt ski lift in a snowy area. The sky is clear and blue with a few scattered clouds. Orange safety netting is visible in the foreground, and there are pine trees and ski equipment in the background.

Skiing in Val Gardena is one of the most spectacular winter experiences in the Dolomites.

Tucked into South Tyrol’s snow-dusted heart, Val Gardena and the vast plateau of Alpe di Siusi feel like winter’s most enchanting stage. Known for its breathtaking mountain scenery, world-class slopes, and access to the Dolomiti Superski network, Val Gardena offers pristine pistes for all skill levels.

Picture cute villages with twinkling lights, world-class ski runs with an awe-inspiring background of snowy jagged peaks and horse-drawn sleighs gliding past alpine huts where home-made strudel and aromatic mulled wine lure you in.

Whether you’re carving through the famous Sellaronda circuit or enjoying après-ski in Selva, this region combines Italian charm with ski perfection.

Yup, Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi have it all for winter enthusiasts. So let’s see what they have to offer.

Overview of the Val Gardena Ski Resort

A snow-covered mountain rises in the distance, surrounded by evergreen and autumn-colored trees. Small houses are scattered along the snowy hillsides under a cloudy gray sky.

Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi are one of the 12 areas of Dolomiti Superski, a premiere Italian ski paradise. They are centrally located and boasting some of the most picturesque sceneries within the Dolomites, which makes them one of the best places in the Dolomites to hit the slopes.

With 181 kilometres of ski runs and 81 lifts, there’s something for every (skier’s) mood here. It’s no wonder Val Gardena has been repeatedly voted as Italy’s best ski resort.

The altitude of Val Gardena (from 1236 m in Ortisei to about 2518 m at the top ski areas) ensures consistent snow coverage throughout the whole winter season. The snow coverage is also supported by extensive modern snowmaking systems covering nearly every slope.

Main villages

Mountain village scene with a sign reading "Selva Gherdëina" in front of traditional Alpine-style buildings. Lush greenery surrounds the area, with a clear blue sky and rocky mountain peak in the background.

Val Gardena is composed of three picturesque villages, each of which is more appropriate to different types of travellers:

  • Ortisei (St. Ulrich): Ortisei offers access to famous red slopes running from Seceda (Gardenissima and La Longia ). Also, the Alpe di Siusi area, perfect for families, is easily accessible by a gondola.
  • Selva di Val Gardena (Wolkenstein): Selva sits at the foot of the Sellaronda circuit. It offers direct ski-in/ski-out access and lively après-ski options. It’s ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers eager to explore challenging runs like Saslong and Ciampinoi.
  • Santa Cristina (St. Christina): the most peaceful of the three villages, Santa Cristina provides easy access to all major slopes, including the famous Saslong World Cup downhill run. It’s perfect for visitors looking for scenic tranquility combined with superb skiing convenience.

Integration with the Dolomiti Superski Network

A snow-covered ski slope with skiers and snowboarders, surrounded by mountainous terrain. In the foreground, a person in a red jacket is skiing. Pine trees line the sides of the slope, and a dramatic sky with clouds and patches of blue is overhead.

Val Gardena is seamlessly connected to the Dolomiti Superski, the world’s largest ski carousel. With a single lift pass, you get access to more than 1200 km of slopes and 450 ski lifts across 12 interconnected ski areas, including neighboring resorts such as Alta Badia, Val di Fassa, and Arabba

Type of Skipass needed: Val Gardena/Alpe di Siusi (if you’ll be staying only in Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi) or Dolomiti Superski Pass (if you’ll be doing Sellaronda)

The season

passo sella in the dolomites with big snowy mountains, snowy hills, and trees
View from Passo Sella

The ski season in the Val Gardena/Alpe di Siusi ski resort typically runs from early December to early April, depending on weather conditions, of course.

The region’s elevation and snowmaking coverage guarantee reliable skiing even during warmer periods.

During this time, you can enjoy long days of skiing, festive events, and winter activities such as sledding, cross-country skiing, and après-ski.

In December, you can visit some of the most beautiful and biggest Christmas markets.

Best Slopes and Circuits

Four people stand on a snowy path surrounded by high snowbanks, dressed in winter clothing. Two face the camera, one raises a hand, and two face away, capturing the snowy landscape. Mountains and cloudy skies are in the background.

If there’s a place where skiing feels like poetry written on snow, it’s Val Gardena. The ski resort’s slopes create a masterpiece of variety, challenge, and pure Dolomite’s beauty.

From adrenaline-pumping black runs where World Cup champions have raced to sweeping, scenic trails that wind through forests and alpine meadows, skiing here feels more like a journey than a sport.

The Legendary 8 of Val Gardena

The “Legendary 8” isn’t just a collection of ski slopes – it’s Val Gardena’s signature ski challenge.

The Legendary 8 was created by Val Gardena Tourism, and that’s why the circuit highlights the most iconic and beautiful runs across the resort.

There are 36 kilometers of diverse descents through breathtaking scenery, and each of the slopes tells a unique story. From the thundering World Cup stage of Saslong to the dreamy, 10-kilometer glide of La Longia, these pistes are more than lines on a map – they’re a bunch of delightful experiences offering thrill in every turn and beauty in every view.

Together, the eight legendary runs represent the heart and soul of skiing in Val Gardena, offering both challenge and heritage in every turn.

So how about hitting the most famous and most beautiful slopes of Italy’s best ski resort?

A hillside with scattered houses and snow-covered fields, surrounded by autumn-colored trees and forested mountains, seen from behind a wooden fence or railing. The sky is overcast.
Not too much snow in November, though.

Here they are in all their grandeur:

Saslong

Length: 3750 m
Height difference: 830 m
Average gradient: 25%
Difficulty level: black
Reach from: Santa Cristina, Selva di Val Gardena
Ski-in ski-out hotel: Muliné Lodge

Craving some black slope adrenaline?

Saslong – the legendary Ski World Cup Downhill piste – is fast and furious.

This is Val Gardena’s superstar – it’s steep, dramatic, and might give even confident skiers a flutter in the stomach.

Dropping from Ciampinoi to Santa Cristina, the Saslong starts surprisingly easy and offers some magnificent views towards Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi. As you keep descending, this is where the fun begins – with the steepest incline reaching 56.9%.

It has a red slope cousin – Saslong B, in case you’re not feeling up to tackling the black one.

Cir

Length: 2750 m
Height difference: 675 m
Average slope: 28%
Difficulty level: black
Reach from: Selva di Val Gardena
Ski-in ski-out hotel: Hotel Continental Dolomites

Starting high on Dantercepies near the Gardena Pass, the scenic Cir slope twists down toward Selva with sweeping turns, changing inclines and breathtaking scenery.

It’s steep enough to get your adrenaline going but playful enough to make you grin. Expect a thrilling rollercoaster ride with jaw-dropping panoramas.

Ciampinoi No. 3

A modern building serves as the lift station for the Ciampinoi cable car in a mountainous area. People walk and ride bikes in front of the station, while sunshine illuminates nearby shops, including "Scuola 2000." Lush green hills and pine trees form the scenic backdrop.

Length: 2380 m
Height difference: 677 m
Average slope: 30%
Difficulty level: black
Reach from: Selva di Val Gardena
Ski-in ski-out hotel: Savoy Dolomites Luxury Hotel, Hotel Freina

Nicknamed “The Steep One” (not like the previous ones were flat…), this black slope plunges down from Ciampinoi (same spot as Saslong slope) to Selva.

Ciampinoi No. 3 owes part of its fame to the 1970 World Ski Championships, during which it provided the setting for the Men’s and Women’s Giant Slalom.

Oh yeah, your legs will know they’ve been tested on this one!

Bravo

A wide green meadow with clusters of pine trees stretches towards distant mountains under a bright blue sky filled with fluffy white clouds.
View from the chairlift in summer

Length: 2200 m
Height difference: 400 m
Average gradient: 24%
Difficulty level: red
Reach from: Monte Pana, Santa Cristina
Ski-in ski-out hotel: Hotel Cendevaves

This romantically beautiful and beautifully romantic red slope is a crowd-pleaser.

Winding its way from Mont de Seura to Monte Pana above Santa Cristina, with gorgeous views of Alpe di Siusi in the background and majestic Sassolungo behind your back, Bravo is the kind of run that makes you want to shout “bravo!” at the end.

The upper station provides connecting slopes and lifts to Sellaronda while Monte Pana has a skibus to Alpe di Siusi.  

Falk

Length: 2050 m
Height difference: 316 m
Average gradient: 25%
Difficulty level: red
Reach from: Plan de Gralba
Ski-in ski-out hotel: Hotel Plan de Gralba

Falk has been attracting skiers since 1940, giving it its nickname “The First”.

Situated at the Plan de Gralba area near Selva, this picturesque slope is manageable for skiers of every level.

It embodies freedom, fun and serenity, letting you live and enjoy that quintessential mountain experience.

Gardenissima

Length: 6000 m
Height difference: 1033 m
Average slope: 19%
Difficulty level: red
Reach from: Santa Cristina, Ortisei
Ski-in ski-out hotel: Hotel Jaegerheim

They say Gardenissima is “The Sensational” one and we gotta agree.

Every April, at the very end of the skiing season in the Dolomites, it hosts the longest giant slalom race in the world.

The slalom is open to World Cup pros and passionate amateurs alike, making it a rather unique event.

But even outside the race day, this 6 km slope from Seceda to Santa Cristina is pure fun.

Wide, fast, and rhythmical, it’s the perfect place to test your carving skills and pretend you’re chasing a World Cup podium.

Sounds sensational? That’s because it truly is!

La Longia

Length: 10500 m
Height difference: 1273 m
Average slope: 18%
Difficulty level: red
Reach from: Ortisei, Santa Cristina
Ski-in ski-out hotel: none, however several hotels in Ortisei offer a free shuttle to the cable cars. We recommend Adler Spa Resort Dolomiti.

At 10.5 km, the red La Longia is the longest slope in Val Gardena and in our opinion, together with Gardenissima (that starts at the same spot), it’s also one of the most beautiful ones in the whole Dolomites.

Beginning at Seceda and gliding all the way down to Ortisei, it feels like a skiing journey more than merely a slope.

The changing sceneries include to-die-for views towards the mighty Sassolungo from its upper part, snowy forests and even a frozen waterfall.

Pace yourself – this one is a love letter to skiing.

Pilat

Length: 4700 m
Altitude difference: 778 m
Average gradient: 17%
Difficulty level: red
Reach from: Ortisei
Ski-in ski-out: Hotel Rainell

The newest of the legendary 8, Pilat is a spectacular red slope starting at Alpe di Siusi, cutting through the forest on its way down to Ortisei.

It boasts numerous bends and turns and offers some spectacular vistas of Val Gardena.

The Challenge of Legendary 8

Screenshot of a SummitLynx webpage about Val Gardena, highlighting its UNESCO status, outdoor activities, an overview map, and location details, with icons showing badges earned, regions, logins, and summit points.
Screenshotted: SummitLynx

These eight crown jewels of Val Gardena’s ski paradise are guaranteed to make your pulse race, your legs burn, and your heart want to do it all over again.

Each one has its own personality, from sleek, groomed boulevards to wild, plunging blacks.

Ski them all, and you’ll feel like you’ve collected the very best winter memories the Dolomites have to offer.

In fact, you can record your skiing on The Legendary 8 through Summitlynx App on any smartphone (GPS enabled).

Once you’ve tackled all eight of them, show up at any of Val Gardena tourist offices and you’ll be rewarded with a diploma and a small gift.

Guided Legendary 8 Experience

If you’re unsure of tackling the Legendary 8 on your own, Val Gardena’s ski schools and the Val Gardena Active program offer guided “Legendary 8” days.

Accompanied by local instructors, advanced skiers experience all eight slopes in one thrilling whole-day circuit, including rest stops in mountain huts and enjoying panoramic viewpoints.

The Sellaronda

Directional signs for Sellaronda, Sass Becè Tour, Gonzaga, and Canazei stand in a snowy mountain landscape with cloudy skies and snow-covered peaks in the background.

Val Gardena is also one of the perfect starting points for the Sellaronda, the Dolomites’ ultimate ski carousel.

This 44-kilometre loop of interconnected slopes and lifts whisks you around the mighty Sella massif, weaving through the immense beauty of four mountain passes – Gardena, Sella, Pordoi, and Campolongo – and four valleys – yup, one of them being Val Gardena.

It offers an extraordinary blend of alpine adventure, panoramic beauty, and cultural immersion across the Dolomiti Superski area.

What makes the Sellaronda rather unique is that it can be skied both in clockwise and anti-clockwise direction.

Sellaronda means a full day of skiing fun, and yet you never hit the same slope twice (that is, unless you want to).

While most of the slopes are of medium difficulty, altogether they do pack a punch. You can think of it as part ski safari, part sightseeing tour.

For the easiest access to Sellaronda from Val Gardena, base yourself in Selva di Val Gardena. From Selva, you may set off both in clockwise direction (follow orange signs) and in anti-clockwise direction (follow green signs).

Selva offers several splendid ski-in ski-out hotels close to Ciampinoi gondola (anti-clockwise direction) or the Dantercepies gondola and Costabella chairlift (clockwise direction).

Sellaronda Essentials

Snow-covered mountains with jagged peaks rise behind a ski lift station. The building has signs and blue accents, and ski trails can be seen leading away from it. The sky is overcast, creating a tranquil winter scene.

Distance: 40–44 km (depending on direction), split about half and half between slopes and lifts (approx. 26 km of slopes and 14–18 km of lifts)
Elevation change: ~2700m
Time Needed: About 6 hours of skiing – allow a full day with stops
Difficulty: Mostly red runs (intermediate level) with some sections requiring confidence at high speeds and transitions.
Directions: Orange (Clockwise) – steeper, more direct, faster pace; Green (Counter-Clockwise) – gentler gradients, smoother flow

Sellaronda is not suitable for beginners.

The Four Mountain Passes of Sellaronda (Altitudes and Highlights)

passo pordoi in the dolomites with snowy mountains and a winding road
Passo Pordoi
  • Passo Gardena (2136 m) connects Val Gardena and Alta Badia. It’s the first leg if you’re starting the loop in Selva di Val Gardena and going in the clockwise direction, or the last if you’re going anticlockwise. It offers superb views of the Sassolungo (Langkofel) group and the rugged walls of the Sella towers.
  • Passo Sella (2218 m) is the highest of the four mountains passes of Sellaronda, and it links Val Gardena with Val di Fassa.
  • Passo Pordoi (2239 m) is the mountain pass above Canazei. From here, you can enjoy views of the Marmolada Glacier, known as the “Queen of the Dolomites.” It’s one of the most photographed locations of the Sellaronda circuit.
  • Passo Campolongo (1875 m) connects Arabba with Corvara in Alta Badia. Camplongo pass lies above a valley that offers a gentler ski profile and is surrounded by forests and cozy mountain huts.

Useful tips:

  • Start early – recommended before 9 a.m.
  • check weather and lift status (most of the lifts operate from 8.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
  • numerous huts along the way make for a great place to stop and have lunch
  • Dolomiti Superski Pass is needed (pass for Val Gardena/Alpe di Siusi is not enough)
  • Ski-in Ski-out hotels in Selva: Savoy Dolomites Luxury Hotel, Hotel Freina, Hotel Continental Dolomites

Highlights

View of snow-capped mountains under a blue, cloudy sky. The foreground features grassy and rocky slopes leading to a distant, expansive range with prominent white peaks.
Marmolada glacier

The circuit is a treasure of some of the best views of the Dolomites:

  • Sassolungo (Langkofel) dominates from Val Gardena.
  • Sella Towers and Piz Boè are constant companions most of the way.
  • Marmolada Glacier can be spotted from Arabba and Pordoi.

And of course, there’s an abundance of beautiful mountain huts. Overall, Sellaronda is a visual feast best enjoyed with frequent scenic pauses.

The Val Gardena Ronda

Map of the Val Gardena Ronda ski area with ski routes, lifts, and points of interest highlighted. Surrounding the map are informational boxes about key locations and activities in the ski region.
Source: Val-Gardena.com

The Val Gardena Ronda (sometimes called Gardena Ronda Tour) is a spectacular local ski circuit that showcases the best of Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi in a single half a day loop.

If the Sellaronda is the Dolomites’ grand ski adventure, then the Val Gardena Ronda is its charming smaller sister – it’s less crowded and much more flexible.

It’s perfect for those who want a true taste of the valley’s diverse terrain and scenery without committing to a full-day marathon around the Sella massif.

The Val Gardena circuit winds through the slopes high above Val Gardena’s villages of Ortisei, Santa Cristina, and Selva, as well as through Alpe di Siusi’s network of pistes.

It links sunny descents with cozy mountain huts and wide-open breathtaking panoramas.

The counter-clockwise circuit packs an exciting mix of adrenaline on some of Val Gardena’s most famous slopes, including the black Saslong, and gentler and slower runs on sun-lit snowy meadows of Alpe di Siusi.

There are quite a few detours and extras possible, so you can easily make this into a whole day of skiing adventure with heaps of amazing scenery to soak in.

Another great news is that any of Val Gardena’s villages, as well as Alpe di Siusi, offer easy access to Val Gardena Ronda, making any of them a great starting point.

Val Gardena Ronda Essentials

A snow-covered mountain rises behind a winding road, partially lined with a metal barrier. The scene is overcast with white sky, blending with the snowy ground, creating a wintry and serene landscape.

Distance: Around 30 km of interconnected slopes and lifts
Time Needed: Half a day to a relaxed full day, depending on stops and extra detours
Difficulty: A mix of everything: blue, red and black runs. It’s possible to customize it – change black Saslong for red Saslong B or add an extra black slope (Gran Pela slope at Col Raiser)
Direction: counterclockwise
Starting points: You have multiple choices.

  • Ortisei – start with Alpe di Siusi gondola
  • Santa Cristina – start with Col Raiser gondola
  • Monte Pana – start with Mont de Seura chairlift
  • Selva di Val Gardena – start with Ciampinoi gondola
  • Alpe di Siusi – various starting points depending on your accommodation

Features of the Val Gardena Ronda

The circuit connects five main ski areas: Ciampinoi - Col Raiser - Seceda - Monte Pana - Alpe di Siusi.

The route is freely customizable – you can tailor your day by adding or skipping segments. It’s an ideal carousel for families, mixed‑skill groups, or photographers chasing the best sunset light.

Sample circuit (counterclockwise from Ortisei):

Snow-covered landscape with a few houses scattered near the base of a forested mountain. Evergreen trees cover the slope, and some buildings are partly visible on the left. The sky appears overcast.

1. Take the gondola up to Alpe di Siusi and descend toward Saltria by taking the following ski lifts and skiing down the adjacent slopes: Mezdi, Sanon, Steger Dellai, Panorama and Paradiso. From Saltria take the ski bus to Monte Pana.

2. Ascend via Mont de Seura chairlift and ski down toward Ciampinoi taking Tramans and Piza Pranseies chairlifts. From Ciampinoi carve down on black Saslong or red Salsong B slopes.

3. Take the Gardena Ronda Express underground funicular from the bottom of Saslong to Col Raiser cable car. Then ride up to Seceda using the Col Raiser gondola and Fermeda chairlift.

4. Whizz down to Ortisei via the La Longia slope – it’s the longest slope in Val Gardena’s at 10.5 km.​

Possible extras:

  • Alpe di Siusi area: it’s possible to add Goldknopf and Florian lifts at Saltria area before hopping on the ski bus toward Monte Pana
  • Ciampinoi area: after taking the Tramans chairlift, you may connect to Comici, Piz Sella and Piz Setour through a series of interconnected lifts and slopes. This is a scenic part of Sellaronda. Then return back to Ciampinoi.
  • Col Raiser area: if you fancy tackling one of the steepest slopes in Val Gardena, then Gran Pela black slope is right there. Return via Cisles chairlift.
  • Seceda area: why not enjoy the sensational Gardenissima slope that will take you back down to Santa Cristina? If you have time, it’s definitely worth it. Then return back via Col Raiser gondola and Fermeda chairlift. 

Useful tips:

  • Start early – recommended before 9 a.m.
  • check weather and lift status (most of the lifts operate from 8.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
  • numerous huts along the way make for a great place to stop and have lunch
  • Val Gardena/Alpe di Siusi Pass is needed

Highlights Along the Way

A scenic view of grassy fields leading to a majestic mountain range bathed in warm sunlight. The foreground shows meandering paths and small structures, with dense forests at the base of towering rocky peaks under a clear sky.
Monte Pana, preparing for the winter season
  • Ciampinoi & Saslong: Legendary World Cup downhill slope with epic views toward Sassolungo.
  • Monte Pana: A sunny plateau with a nice view of Val Gardena – it’s great for a mid‑day break
  • Seceda: enjoy those 360° view over the Dolomites
  • Alpe di Siusi: Europe’s largest high‑altitude plateau, dotted with huts
  • Col Raiser: Smooth red runs and quick access to the Gardena Ronda Express
  • Mountain huts: many offer South Tyrolean Ladin cuisine, as well as unbeatable Dolomites vistas at various points through the circuit.​

Alpe di Siusi

Mountain range under a partly cloudy sky, with sunlit rocky peaks in the background. In the foreground, dense green coniferous trees and open grassy fields are visible. The scene conveys a serene, natural landscape.

If you’d rather keep it mellow, Alpe di Siusi is your dream come true: the soft meadows of the summer are turned into ski slopes in the winter.

The area is perfect for families, beginners, and anyone who likes skiing with the sun on their face – you have wide, sunny slopes, gentle gradients, and lively kids’ parks.

Top Slopes for Families and Beginners

A young child in a red helmet, blue ski vest, and colorful jacket stands on skis in the snow, ready for a ski lesson. Adults and other skiers are nearby on a snowy slope with equipment and banners visible in the background.

Alpe di Siusi offers a well-balanced mix of blue and red runs. The area is thus ideal for building confidence and technique.

Some of the best include:

  • Puflatsch (Bullaccia) Run is a panoramic slope near Compatsch. It offers gentle descents and spectacular views over the Sciliar massif and Sassolungo group.​
  • Panorama and Floralpina Slopes are both sunny and scenic. These runs are some of the best starter grounds for beginners and returning skiers, as some of them are categorized as blue and some – red.
  • Mezdì and Euro Slopes (Compatsch) are right next to the upper station of the Siusi–Alpe di Siusi gondola, also known as the Alpe di Siusi Cable Car. Both slopes are well-marked, and perfect for families alternating between breaks and ski time.​

The area’s ski schools maintain an international reputation for professionalism and multilingual instructors, ensuring that even first-timers feel comfortable on snow.

Cross-Country Skiing and Winter Trails

A winding road curves through a lush green landscape with scattered trees and small cabins. In the distance, misty mountains rise under a partly cloudy sky, creating a serene and picturesque scene.

Alpe di Siusi also shines as a leading Nordic skiing destination, offering 80 km of designated trails for classic and skate styles. It makes sense, of course, that there’s lots of cross-country skiing available on Alpe di Siusi – it is, technically, a meadow.

 Trails are well-maintained and there’s snow all through the winter.

To use of cross-country tracks in the Dolomites, you need a ticket. There are different kinds of tickets (passes) available, for example, daily, seasonal, a single area, of all the Dolomiti NordicSki area. You can get more information about the tickets here.

You can find routes for all skill levels there:

  • Compatsch Trail (5.4 km): Medium difficulty, scenic route.​
  • Hartl Loop (12 km): Medium difficulty; a quiet forested terrain.
  • Joch/Giogo (15.4 km): Difficult; a challenging route with sharp climbs.
  • Möser (5.5 km): Easy meadow circuit, perfect for families.
  • Panorama Trail (11.3 km): difficult trail with breathtaking open views of the Dolomites

Children’s Ski Zones and Fun Parks

There are multiple ski zones and fun parks on Alpe di Siusi that are specifically designed for children. In these, kids can enjoy skiing in a fun and safe way, and improve their skills for the “grownup” slopes.

  • Bimbi Fun Park (Compatsch) is a supervised snow playground. It features tunnels, small slopes, and magic carpet lifts. It’s perfect for early learners making their first steps (slides?) on skis. Equipment rental and ski instructors are conveniently on-site.​
  • Children’s Area (Ski School Seiser Alm) is connected to the main Seis–Seiser Alm gondola station. This large snow park has themed characters, practice areas, and conveyor lifts for safe learning.​
  • Funpark Kids Castelrotto is a small slope with sledding and tubing next to the Liftstüberl restaurant. It’s the perfect fun for tiny toddlers and kids who don’t ski.​
  • Europark Compatsch is already a slightly more advanced kid’s zone. You’ll find mini obstacles, tunnels, and even small jumps here. The park is located just at the Eurotel tow lift.

Snow parks in the Val Gardena ski resort

A person stands on the side of a paved road, taking a photo of the snowy mountain landscape. Snow covers the ground, and the sky is overcast. Steps are visible on the slope in the background.

Are you itching for something more interesting than your usual going up and down a hill?

Val Gardena has snowparks that combine world-class freestyle with family fun. The area is definitely a top choice for every kind of skier and snowboarder, from curious kids to aspiring pros.

Each of these funparks brings a unique rhythm to your Val Gardena adventure: a promise of adrenaline, playfulness, and winter wonder, whatever your age or ambition.

Snowpark & Funpark Sassolungo (Piz Sella – Selva di Val Gardena)

Best for: All levels – there are dedicated beginner, intermediate, and expert sections
Location: Piz Sella area, near Selva, at the foot of the Sassolungo
Features: 750 meters long, directly on the Sellaronda loop
Split into two main zones, each accessible via the Gran Paradiso (8-seater) and Comici I (6-seater) chairlifts

Ready to unleash your inner trickster?

The Sassolungo Snowpark, perched in the shadow of the mighty Sassolungo, is a place where your freestyle dreams will come alive.

Here, the air crackles with energy: rails, boxes, kicker jumps, and even a wild “snail tunnel” keep things unpredictable and fun.

For the more adventurous, the big kicker line offers airtime that will have your heart racing and your skis singing.

Not sure about getting airborne yet? No sweat.

The beginner and intermediate sections will offer you gentle beginnings to freestyle, with smooth transitions and forgiving obstacles.

Whether you’ve never done a boardercross or you live for flips, Sassolungo lets every skier or boarder write their own wild story. Plus, it’s always buzzing with locals and travelers swapping high-fives between attempts.

Funslope Selva

Best for: Beginners, families, playful intermediates
Location: Dantercepies/Risaccia sector, right on the Sellaronda and easily accessed via Risaccia I & II lifts
Features: A “playground” slope with creative elements—soundboost, banked turns, twisters, waves, tunnels, a huge high-five hand, and mascot Slopy
Designed to build confidence and fun for children and families

Craving fun, fast, and family-friendly thrills?

Funslope Selva serves up a snow playground that’s as imaginative as it is inviting. This isn’t your typical piste – it’s a rollercoaster of soundboosts, swerving banked turns, waves, and tunnels where speed meets giggles at every corner.

Shout “hi!” to mascot Slopy as you zip through a giant hand or twist through the tunnel like a winter snake.

For kids and playful grown-ups alike, this slope is the Wintery Dolomites’ answer to a theme park – pure joy, zero pressure.

Whether you’re finding your ski legs for the first time, bonding with your family, or just looking for something out of the ordinary, Funslope Selva sparks smiles, laughter, and the kind of memories everyone wants to bring home.

Snowpark Monte Pana (Santa Cristina)

A scenic view of a grassy field with lounge chairs and umbrellas, bordered by a wooden fence and colorful flowers in the foreground, and dramatic mountains and forest in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
The Snowpark being prepared

Best for: Children, total beginners, families
Location: Monte Pana area, above Santa Cristina
Features: Kids Fun Park with skiparcours (fun obstacle lines)
Race track, magic carpets, and snow tunnels
Funline with bumps and gentle jumps
Ski school meeting point and exceptional coaching for first-timers

If you believe skiing should be about laughter and family, then Monte Pana’s Funpark is going to be your happy place.

Picture this: magic carpets carrying tiny skiers to gentle slopes lined with snowy obstacles, tunnels, and bump tracks placed just right for mini-adventures.

Here, the littlest shredders get their first taste of freedom, racing down in ski-parcours that feel just like a winter carnival.

And for parents, Monte Pana Ski School’s top-notch instructors create safe, encouraging spaces – whether your child is sliding for the very first time or tackling their first funline.

Don’t be surprised if you hear gleeful voices echoing as kids zoom past the start gate, making Monte Pana the heartbeat of family ski days in Val Gardena.

Snowpark Furdenan (Ortisei)

Best for: Toddlers and small children, first-time skiers
Location: At the Furdenan slope in Ortisei (close to the village)
Features: Mini obstacles, interactive games, a big airbag, and gentle terrain
Speed measurement for mini slalom runs
Designed for young ones learning basic coordination

Want to see toddlers beam with pride as they conquer winter?

Furdenan is the launching pad – a snowpark made especially for small children and beginners, right on the edge of the charming Ortisei.

Think mini obstacles, speed measurement slalom lines, air bags for soft landings, and a whole bunch of interactive games to keep little minds busy.

The terrain is gentle and friendly; the vibe is pure Dolomites warmth.

Here, first-timers become enthusiasts, while onlookers cheer them on as they master their first turns or spend hours racing in tiny slalom courses.

At Furdenan, every day is about growing confidence, sparking joy, and letting young skiers – and their parents – discover just how magical winter can be.

Snowpark Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)

Best for: All abilities – Europe’s longest medium freestyle line
Location: Laurin slope, Alpe di Siusi plateau
Features: 1,500 meters long with over 40 obstacles
Beginner, intermediate, and pro zones (boxes, walls, rails, quarter pipes, jumps)
Long “Medium Line” – the longest in Europe – ideal for intermediates wanting to improve
Audience: Beginners (dedicated line), intermediate and advanced freestylers, freestyle skiers and boarders seeking a world-class park

Calling all rising freestyle stars – Alpe di Siusi Snowpark is your perfect stage!

Stretching for an impressive 1,500 meters atop a sun-drenched plateau, this park is the crown jewel of the Dolomites freestyle.

From beginner boxes and gentle walls to the legendary Medium Line – the longest in Europe – there’s room for every style and skill.

Step into the pro zone for rails, jumps, and quarter pipes with the dramatic Sciliar massif as your backdrop, or stick to the beginner line and soak up the energy and encouragement that this park is famous for.

Whether you’re fine-tuning your tricks, filming your first spin, or just soaking up blue-sky views, Alpe di Siusi makes every rider feel like a champion, blending big thrills with big mountain beauty.

Night skiing

Electronic ski resort signs display entry times, ski lift information, and Dolomiti Superski prices in Italian, German, and English, with trees and snow-covered mountains in the background.

Night falls in the Dolomites, but the slopes don’t go to sleep!

Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi turn winter evenings into unforgettable adventures with a select lineup of night skiing and moonlit experiences.

These aren’t just illuminated pistes – they’re opportunities to ski beneath star-drenched skies, join locals for torchlight descents, or carve gentle turns in the spellbinding blue hush of moonlight.

Whether you’re chasing adrenaline on floodlit pistes or savoring the stillness of a midnight stroll, night skiing in Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi proves that the Dolomites don’t rest when the sun goes down – they simply become more magical.

Monte Pana Night Skiing, Santa Cristina – Blue run on Monte Pana

A scenic mountain village with scattered houses on green slopes, dense forests in the foreground, and rocky peaks rising under a blue sky in the background.
Santa Cristina

When the lifts close elsewhere, Monte Pana lights up – inviting skiers and families to experience the slopes in a whole new way.

The gentle blue run at Monte Pana becomes your playground, as spotlights shimmer across the slopes.

Don’t worry if you’re a beginner finding your rhythm or a parent guiding little ones –   night skiing at Monte Pana is all about laid-back family fun.

Grab your skis or snowboard, take a few laps under the stars, and finish your evening with a steaming mug of cocoa or mulled wine at a cozy mountain bar.

It’s the kind of simple joy that lingers long after your last descent.

Torchlight Descents & Moonlit Events – La Longia, Ortisei

Looking for something truly special?

Join one of Val Gardena’s legendary torchlight descents led by local ski instructors on the famous “La Longia” piste to Ortisei.

Imagine the snow glowing orange in the flicker of torches, your group winding silently down the mountain while the peaks turn indigo and the village lights start twinkling somewhere below.

These are communal, festive events that blend tradition with thrill.

A torchlight descent will be perfect for the adventurous skiers who want to be part of local mountain culture.

Full Moon Cross-Country at Monte Pana

Night skiing in Val Gardena isn’t just for alpine skiers and snowboarders.

Cross-country enthusiasts can glide along the groomed trails of the Monte Pana Cross-Country Centre on select full moon dates (usually in January, February, and March).

Admission is free and the ski rental remains open for your night fun.

The forested tracks get bathed in the silver light of the full moon. It truly is the setting for an almost enchanted experience.

Sometimes, you’ll even find music, a torch parade, or hot drinks waiting at the end.

emma having cocoa in alpe di siusi in the dolomites with mountains in the background

Alpe di Siusi: Winter Evenings & Moonlight Classic

Alpe di Siusi transforms after dark as well, with special torch-lit snowshoe hikes, guided winter walks, and, of course, the famed “Moonlight Classic” cross-country marathon,

It’s an event that draws both amateur skiers and pros onto the plateau for a surreal nighttime race.

When the stars are out and the mountain huts glow, it’s easy to believe you’ve stepped into a different world altogether.

Where to stay in Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi for skiing:

A small white chapel stands on a grassy hill under a partly cloudy sky, with a gravel path in the foreground and a village and forested hills in the background.

Selva di Val Gardena:

Ortisei: while none are ski-in ski-out for Val Gardena Ronda, there are several excellent options close (and usually with a free shuttle). We recommend Gardena Grodnerhof Hotel&Spa or Adler Spa Resort Dolomiti

Santa Cristina: Hotel Jagerheim

Monte Pana: Hotel Cendevaves, Hotel Monte Pana

Alpe di Siusi: Hotel Icaro, Brunelle Seiser Alm Lodge

Conclusion

A man and woman stand smiling together on a snowy mountain viewpoint with snow-covered peaks and trees in the background. Both wear jackets, the woman in orange and the man in black, enjoying the winter scenery.

Val Gardena is where world-class skiing meets cozy Tyrolean charm.

One moment you’re carving down a slope that is regularly raced by the pros, the next you’re sipping hot chocolate by a crackling fire.

It’s a place that invites both adventure and indulgence – whether you’re chasing the thrill of some of the legendary slopes of Val Gardena, teaching your little ones their first turns on Alpe di Siusi’s wide-open sun-bathed pistes or trading skis for snowshoes and wandering through silent forests.

Ready to glide down epic trails?

Contact us, and let’s start planning your Val Gardena ski holiday today and make your winter dream a reality.

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