Most people think of one thing when they think of the Dolomites in winter: skiing. This region of northeastern Italy has a well-earned reputation as one of the best and largest skiable regions in the world. But can you really enjoy winter in the Dolomites even if you don’t ski? Below are three ways to spend winter days in this corner of the Italian Alps based on three individual personas. Maybe one of these molds fits you like a glove, or pick and choose what you like from each for a well-rounded adventure that speaks to every part of you.
This story was created in partnership with Dolomiti Superski.
For Skiers and Snowboarders
The Ultimate Day on the Slopes
You came to the Dolomites in winter for one thing: skiing. And who could blame you? With access to over 400 lifts using just one handy Dolomiti Superski pass, you can explore 12 valleys with over 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) of skiable terrain.
One tip for newcomers to the Dolomites: Don’t limit yourself. Why stick to one slope when you can ski from place to place? Get up and get going early so you have time for a leisurely mountain hut lunch, tasting your way across the snow-capped peaks. In the afternoon, the aura of the alpenglow casts an otherworldly pinkish-orange hue on the mountains. When you’re ready for that apres-ski cocktail, there’s no better backdrop to accompany your sippable reward.
For Active Non-Skiers
Winter Sports Galore
Spoiler alert: not everyone skis. But despite the Dolomites’ reputation as one of the best places to ski in the world, it’s also remarkably welcoming to non-skiers. If you’re an active person who doesn’t downhill ski, you’ll still feel right at home on the slopes doing plenty of other exciting winter sports.
If you still want to enjoy the thrill of zipping down the mountain, tobogganing is a great alternative to skiing or snowboarding. Well-groomed Nordic/cross-country ski trails interlace the region, as well. Channel your inner Carolina Kostner, world champion ice skater hailing from Val Gardena, at one of the many frozen lakes or a man-made rink. For a wintry twist on mountain biking, look into renting an electric mountain bike. “Fat bikes,” called so because of their ultra wide traction-producing tires, can even go on select lifts and gondolas.
Snowshoeing and winter hiking in the Dolomites offer the same ease and simplicity as their popular summertime counterpart with even more privacy on the snow-hushed trails. Dress for the weather and you’ll have no problem enjoying day hikes from your basecamp or even winter hut to hut hiking. With a South Tyrol guest pass, which is included as a complimentary amenity in many accommodations in the Dolomites, you can have access to more trails than ever. Just hop on a bus to quickly access new parts of the region you otherwise wouldn’t get to.
For Non-Athletes
More Ways to Embrace Winter in the Dolomites
This region attracts active travelers in all seasons, but the list of things to do in the Dolomites stretches far beyond sports. For instance, spa culture here is serious business. Spend your day soaking in the hot tub, steaming in the sauna, and plunging in a pool fed by mountain spring water.
Instead of an intense hike, take a leisurely stroll and window shop your way down winding village lanes. In larger towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo, you’ll find luxury brands like Dior, and in quaint villages like Chiusa-Klausen, discover authentic alpine artisans like lederhosen and dirndl makers.
While the vineyards may be hibernating under a blanket of snow, many winemakers still offer tours and tastings. Try a cooking class, and take home an authentic South Tyrolean recipe so you can revisit the flavors of the Dolomites from your own kitchen.
Dotted across the Dolomites, you’ll also find museums and cultural offerings. The area’s archeological significance, mining history, and the crucial role the region played in WWI are all commemorated at several museum experiences across the region. Learn more about the Indigenous Ladins as MusLa, where everything from modern art to prehistoric artifacts depicts Native life in the Dolomites.
The Dolomites in winter have a certain kind of magic. There’s no bad way to experience it, because any day in the Dolomites will never be a day wasted.
