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The Dolomites

Skiing in The Dolomites

The Dolomites are among the most beautiful mountain in the world and the most visited in the Alps.

They are located in Northern Italy in the eastern part of the Alps, and span from the Brenta area in the Trentino region to the west to the Friuli region on the border with Slovenia in the east, passing through Alto Adige and Veneto.

The name "Dolomites" derives from the famous French geologist Déodat Gratet de Dolomieu who described the rock, dolomite, a type of carbonate rock responsible for the characteristic shapes and colour of these mountains, in the late 18th century. They were previously known as the "pale mountains”.

Covered by impressive peaks like, among many others, the Marmolada (3,343m), the Tofane (three mountains reaching over 3,220m), Piz Boe’ (3,151m) in the Sella group and Tre Cime di Lavaredo (2,999m), they feature some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes anywhere. Their vertical pale coloured walls, distinctive pinnacles, sheer cliffs and vast glaciers interrupted by plateaux and long pleasant valleys provide a striking contrast.


Declared a UNESCO World Natural Heritage area in 2009, the Dolomites present visitors with a unique environment, which draws them back over and over again, both in winter and summer. With destinations like Madonna di Campiglio in Trentino, Corvara in Alta Badia, Val Gardena, Cortina, guests are spoilt with choice.

In winter the Dolomites offer numerous first class destinations catering for every need and allowing the guests to discover the romantic side of the Southern Alps. Some of the largest and most fascinating ski areas in Europe are in the Dolomites, like the Sella Ronda/ Dolomiti Superski and the Skirama Dolomiti Adamello Brenta, where skiers have the opportunity to ski on kilometres of gentle slopes and more challenging ones, all interconnected so you never have to remove your skis.

Skiing in the Dolomites is a skier’s dream, something you should not miss. There is a long tradition in winter sports and hospitality supported by perfectly managed organisations - from the numerous local tourists offices, professional ski schools and high quality accommodation. The breathtaking, unforgettable view over the peaks and valleys of the Dolomites is simply a treat for the eyes and heart.

In summer, the view changes from snow capped mountains to lush green valleys and meadows dotted by numerous walking trails, not to mention the many roads and passes that entice cyclists.

All year round from here you could venture beyond Italy's mountains and discover and explore the culture, historic cities and villages below. Northern Italy has so much to offer – history and art, regional wines and cuisine, lakes and the sea. Why not combine your holiday in the Dolomites with a visit to Venice and its canals, fair Verona – the setting for Romeo and Juliet , or Lake Garda, just to mention a few.