Selva, Val Gardena

Selva, Val Gardena

Selva, Val Gardena

Ortisei is the main village in Val Gardena and the cultural heart of the valley. Set in the spectacular Dolomites, it combines traditional alpine character with easy access to wide-open ski terrain and stunning views.

Unlike Selva, Ortisei has a more village-style feel, with a lively pedestrian centre, boutique shops and some of the best dining in the valley. It’s a great choice for families, couples and anyone who wants a relaxed base with strong après and restaurant options — while still having access to serious ski mileage.

Ortisei connects to both Seceda and Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), and via lift links you can access the wider Val Gardena and the full Dolomiti Superski network, including the famous Sella Ronda circuit.

 

 

 

 

Difficulty

Beginner 30%
Intermediate 60%
Advanced 10%

At a Glance

Terrain Area

181km

Summit

1,236m

Mt. Vertical

1,282m

Season

Dec-Apr

Lifts

79

Food & Bars

100

Accommodation Cortina

Ortisei offers a wide range of accommodation, from welcoming family-run guesthouses to stylish four- and five-star spa hotels. Many properties are within walking distance of the Seceda and Alpe di Siusi lifts, while others are a short bus ride away. This village is ideal if you value atmosphere as much as ski access. The pedestrian main street gives Ortisei a proper town feel, with great cafés, wine bars and shops. After skiing, most hotels offer impressive wellness areas with indoor pools, saunas and relaxation zones — a big plus for couples and families alike.

Skiing & Boarding

Ortisei provides direct lift access to Seceda and Alpe di Siusi, both known for wide, scenic runs and beautifully groomed pistes. Alpe di Siusi is one of the best beginner and intermediate areas in the Dolomites, with gentle slopes and incredible open views — perfect for relaxed cruising. From Seceda, stronger skiers can link into the rest of the Val Gardena area and access the Sella Ronda circuit for full-day ski adventures across multiple valleys. The lift system is modern and efficient, making it easy to explore. Beginners benefit from excellent ski schools and dedicated learning areas close to the village. Snowboarders enjoy the wide pistes and varied terrain, with terrain parks available elsewhere in the Val Gardena network.

Activities

Ortisei has plenty to offer beyond skiing. You can explore winter walking trails, try cross-country skiing on Alpe di Siusi or go tobogganing with the family. There’s also ice skating, snowshoeing and indoor climbing available nearby. The village is known for its strong wellness culture, so many hotels have excellent spa facilities. In the evenings, Ortisei stands out for its dining scene, with a mix of traditional South Tyrolean restaurants and modern Italian cuisine, along with relaxed wine bars and cafés.

Getting There & Around

The closest airports are Innsbruck Airport (approx. 120km), Verona Airport (approx. 190km) and Munich Airport (approx. 300km). Transfer times usually range from two to four hours depending on your arrival airport and weather conditions. Private transfers are the most convenient option. The nearest train station is Ponte Gardena (Waidbruck), with bus or taxi connections into the valley. Within Ortisei, most places are walkable, and a free ski bus links Ortisei with Santa Cristina and Selva.

How Far

Airport:
Innsbruck 120km

Transfer:
2-2.5 hours Bus or Drive

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