Not that there is bad There are many places to visit in Italy’s Dolomites, but some areas seem to have something extra special. A more dramatic location in the mountains, closer to the slopes, a more chic culinary scene, a more upscale atmosphere, and just a little bit of location. A little more of that heart-stopping beauty.
Almost unfairly, Cortina d’Ampezzo has all these benefits and more. It has long been one of Italy’s most exclusive winter holiday destinations and regularly features in lists of Europe’s best ski resorts and Italy’s best small towns. And prepare to relive those glory days as Milan prepares to host his 2026 Winter Olympics, a reenactment of his 1956 Olympics that put Cortina on the international skiing map. We are.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as the “Queen of the Dolomites” (or “Pearl of the Dolomites”), is now a luxury resort on the Dolomites Superski Circuit. The Dolomiti Superski Circuit is the world’s largest ski area, spanning over 1,198.96 km (745 miles). Slope. It attracts adventurers who enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and mountaineering, as well as those seeking gentle activities such as Michelin-starred restaurants, high-end shopping, and a vibrant après-ski scene. Additionally, Cortina offers visitors many comfortable hotels, including some of the most respected hotels in the Dolomites.
Cortina d’Ampezzo is perfect for a special winter vacation in Italy
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the Dolomites’ most emblematic mountain, is about an hour from Cortina.
- There’s nothing more satisfying than a hearty meal in a Cortina mountain chalet like Baita Piè Tofana.
- Spa hotels like Rosapetra allow visitors to soak up the splendor of the Dolomites while pampering themselves during treatments.
- The cobblestone Corso Italia is the place for high fashion, local crafts and unique gifts.
- Warm up with a delicious grappa or glass of wine at Enoteca Cortina or one of Cortina’s lively and cozy taverns.
Best hotels and resorts to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d’Ampezzo, a Radisson Collection Hotel
This newest landmark property is located just steps from the town center and features a spa, family-friendly suites, and a guestbook packed with big-name guests. Savoia, the largest resort in the Ampezzo Valley, is also home to the Radisson Residences Savoia His Palace, an apartment hotel suitable for extended stays.
Book your stay at Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d’Ampezzo, a Radisson Collection Hotel on Booking.com
Book your stay at Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d’Ampezzo, a Radisson Collection Hotel on Agoda.com.
Faloria Mountain Spa Resort
This modern resort surrounded by trees, travel + leisure Especially when booking for couples, say Andrea Grisdale and Stefano Sancassani, A-List advisors at IC Bellagio. “In terms of romance, there’s no better place than the Penthouse Suite,” says Grisdale.
Book your stay at Faloria Mountain Spa Resort on Booking.com
Book your stay at Faloria Mountain Spa Resort on Agoda
Rosapetra Spa Resort
Nestled between mountains and meadows, it is located a short distance from the bustle of Cortina. Centro, Rosapetra has 33 rooms and 7 suites, all made from natural wood to create a rustic, minimalist feel. Although this resort welcomes families, it has a grown-up feel and a tranquil spa experience.
Book your stay at Rosapetra Spa Resort on Booking.com
Book your stay at Rosapetra Spa Resort via Agoda.com
Cristallo Resort & Spa
When the Art Nouveau-style Grand Dame Cristallo Resort & Spa emerges from hibernation in late 2024, it will be rebranded as Mandarin Oriental, the group’s first alpine resort, in enough time to welcome guests for the 2026 Olympics. I am planning to do so.
best things to do in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Soaring around the Dolomiti Superski
With over 1,198.96 km (745 miles) of slopes and 120 state-of-the-art lifts and cable cars connecting passholders to the entire network, the world’s largest ski circuit will never leave a visitor bored. In the summer, the same hills are filled with great hiking and biking among alpine meadows and pristine lakes.
Explore Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The Dolomites’ toothiest peaks may look spooky, but they’re actually surprisingly accessible to even those of moderate fitness, via a 6.4-mile (10.29 km) trail that skirts the mountain’s base. The incredibly scenic hike takes approximately 3.5 hours. Lunch at a cozy restaurant will cost more. Rifugio.
Climb the via ferrata
IC Bellagio recommends hiring a guide to explore the Via Ferrata of Cascate di Fanes, a rushing waterfall in the Ampezzo Dolomites Natural Park. “A very enjoyable excursion in an impressive landscape, combining scenic and easy itineraries suitable even for beginners in crags,” says Sancassani.
look at the scenery
You don’t have to ski or hike to enjoy Cortina’s spectacular scenery. From town, take the Frec Channel Cielo cable car up to Cima Tofana, his third highest mountain in the Dolomites. Mozzafiato (Breathtaking) views at 10,640 feet. After enjoying some pizza at a height of about 2 miles (3.21 km), return to Cortina.
best restaurant
Baita Pie Tofana
Baita Pie Tofana Chalet, helmed by chef Federico Lovacchi, who spent six years at the three-Michelin star San Hubertus in San Cassiano, has earned Grisdale’s highest rating. “It’s the ideal place to escape the city in the summer and a relaxing retreat in the winter when skiing in the Tofana Mountains.”
Tivoli
The combination of Tivoli’s stunning surroundings and colorful, elaborately presented dishes caught Cortina’s attention. T+LA list of the best ski resorts to visit with Michelin-starred restaurants. Book early to get an indoor table with a view or, weather permitting, a table on the patio.
Pontgel Bierstube Forst
The decor is bright and simple, and the hearty Tyrolean menu reminds you of how close you are to the Austrian border.Located in the heart of Cortina, this cheerful tavern offers cold beers, soft pretzels, platters (or tagliere) regional charcuterie.
best shopping
Artigianato Artistico Ampezzano
Cortina has a centuries-old craft tradition, including furniture making, deer antler carving, and highly specialized Tarcasi wooden products with metal inlays. At this artisan store, which has two locations in the city, you can find jewelry, housewares, Christmas ornaments, gifts, and more.
La Cortina Cooperativa
You won’t find many places in Italy like this multi-level shopping mecca that brings together so many products and services under one roof. Shop for clothing, gifts, custom furniture, local crafts, artisan food, and more. Personalized pet sweaters, Marshall speakers, Timberland boots, and YSL fragrances? Yes, they have it all.
Franz Klarer
Whether you’re getting ready for the slopes or just need a figure cut during après-ski, Franz Klarer has you covered. Grisdale calls for the luxury boutique’s “outstanding service” and the luxury sportswear of his sacred Italian brands such as Prada, Gucci, Fendi and Versace, as well as his labels Moncler, Gum Rouge and White. , introduce customers here.
best nightlife
Enoteca Cortina
When Sancassani is in Cortina, he heads to this popular wine bar to sample from founder Gerry’s vast cellar. “He collects a selection of wines from the most growing regions around the world, stores them properly, and happily serves delicious wines to his guests,” says Sancassani. In keeping with Italian tradition, each glass comes with a small plate of appetizers.
Restaurant Col d’Orcier 1778
Grisdale likes to surprise guests with this mountainside restaurant, accessible by gondola or human power. Featuring “awe-inspiring” views from the lawn and terrace, on certain evenings you can visit the adjoining observatory after dinner or drinks and enjoy uncontaminated views of the galaxy.
bar sports
Located in Plum Corner on Corso Italia, all activities can take place outside this small bar with a large patio.
jumbo
At Jambo, we’re filling up on cocktails, pizza, paninis, burgers, and other comforting dishes. Then the tables and chairs are pushed back and the dance party begins. Get to the venue early and sit on the floor.
best time to visit
January to March is the busiest time of the year as it offers some of the best skiing. “However, our personal favorite times to visit are June and September, when the days are longer and the summer highs aren’t as high,” Grisdale says. . She added that her two months on this shoulder are typically much quieter, and “may feel like you have the majestic mountains and impressive sunrises all to yourself.”
During peak winter and summer travel, it’s important to book your accommodation early. The same goes if you decide to make a reservation for dinner at a restaurant. Skiers should contact their accommodation or travel planner for packages that include lift tickets and gear rental. If you’re looking forward to the 2026 Olympics, start planning now.
how to get there
Cortina is approximately a two-hour drive from Venice’s Marco Polo Airport and is also accessible from the smaller airport in Trento. There are also several helicopter ports near the town. Cortina does not have a train station, but buses arrive from Belluno, Calalzo di Cadore and Dobbiaco stations. Renting a car gives you more flexibility for day trips, but if you’re planning on skiing, hiking, or exploring the local area, you can easily do without one.
Moving method
Cortina d’Ampezzo’s town center is compact and easily reached on foot. If you’re staying at a resort outside the center, ask about the free shuttle to town or the nearest ski gondola.
DolomitiBus connects Cortina’s ski areas and also provides town-to-town service. For taxis, transfers and personal drivers, Cortina Dolomiti has a list of approved partners on his website.
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(Feature image credit: mantaphoto/Getty Images)
This article first appeared on travelandleisure.com.
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