Everything you need for your Cortina d'Ampezzo ski holiday.
10th November, 2024
5 min read time
Often hailed as the "Queen of the Dolomites", Cortina d'Ampezzo stands proudly as a beacon of winter sports among the great variety of ski resorts in Italy. With a rich history dating back to the 1930s, this world-class destination cemented its legacy by hosting Italy's first Winter Olympic Games in 1956.
Here's a practical guide we've put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Cortina d'Ampezzo ski holiday. You're going to learn everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and even the best spots to grab a bite or chill out after skiing. But that's not all! At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some really handy contact numbers and links.
Cortina d'Ampezzo is located in the northern part of Italy, within the Veneto region.
Nearest airport
Venice Marco Polo (150 km)
Transfer time
Venice Marco Polo (2hr 02 min)
Cortina d'Ampezzo the resort
Resort altitude: 1224 m
Resort permanent residents: 5852
The resort's heart, the pedestrianized Corso Italia, brims with chic cafés, bars, and designer boutiques, reflecting the town's blend of tradition and luxury. Amid the backdrop of the breathtaking Dolomites, Cortina hosts prestigious events such as the Alpine Ski World Cup and Cortina Winter Polo. While its upscale ambiance is undeniable, the resort maintains a warm and relaxed atmosphere, further enriched by its array of dining and entertainment options. Whether you're on the slopes or sipping cocktails in its grand hotels, Cortina offers a ski holiday infused with a touch of Dolce Vita.
Pros
Cons
Breathtaking landscapes
Require a bus ride to move between ski areas
Beginners will love the gentle nursery slopes
Little ski-in/ski-out accommodations
Vibrant après-ski scene
Some lift infrastructure requires upgrades
There's a wealth of activities to dive into/td>
Somewhat pricey lift pass
Here is what it's like at Cortina d'Ampezzo resort
Cortina d'Ampezzo, a part of the extensive Dolomiti Superski area, provides an expansive skiing experience with 120 km of skiable terrain. This is divided into 78 pistes (2 greens, 39 blues, 30 reds, and 7 blacks) interconnected by 36 lifts. The ski area is composed of several main sectors, including:
Falzarego: This sector offers 16 pistes of varying difficulty and is connected to the Lagazuoi - 5 Torri sector, expanding your skiing options. It's known for the Great War ski tour, adding a historic twist to your ski adventure.
Tofana: Here, you can challenge yourself on 37 pistes (19 blues, 12 reds, and 6 blacks) across three peaks, including the towering Tofana di Mezzo.
Faloria-Cristallo-Mietres: This area comprises 15 pistes (2 blues, 8 reds, 5 blacks) and is equipped with 7 lifts. It caters to all skill levels, from beginners to experts.
Auronzo: Ideal for beginners, Auronzo provides 5 pistes (4 blues, 1 black) and is serviced by 3 lifts.
Misurina: Though smaller, Misurina's 4 pistes (1 blue, 2 reds, 1 black) served by 2 lifts offer diverse skiing experiences in a quieter setting.
San Vito di Cadore: With 9 pistes (4 blues, 4 reds, 1 black) and 3 lifts, San Vito offers a more peaceful skiing atmosphere.
Skiing in Cortina d'Ampezzo
Beginners
Cortina serves as an ideal ground for beginners. With excellent nursery slopes and an abundance of gentle runs, particularly in the lower parts of the Pomedes sector, novices will find the resort both challenging and forgiving.
Intermediates
Intermediate skiers can immerse themselves in Cortina's scenic and diverse slopes. While the offerings might not be overwhelmingly expansive, they promise intrigue, beauty, and an exploration of the resort's outlying areas. Highlights include the picturesque Cinque Torri and the renowned "Hidden Valley."
Advanced
Advanced skiers won't feel left out in Cortina. Apart from its variety of challenging black runs, particularly in the Pomedes and Cristallo sectors, the resort is adorned with more off-piste opportunities than most parts of the Dolomites.
Off-piste
Cortina is an off-piste enthusiast's dream. With areas like Pomedes and Cristallo offering intense challenges and the resort's historical hosting of significant skiing events, off-piste skiing here isn't just an activity, but an experience.
Snowboarding
Snowboarders, from novices to experts, have several avenues to explore in Cortina. Beginners can smoothly navigate the slopes of Pocol, while those seeking intensity can head to the 5 Torri and Lagazuoi. Additionally, the resort's consistent hosting of Snowboard World Cup races on the Faloria slopes is a testament to its prominence in the snowboarding world.
Cortina d'Ampezzo ski season dates
The ski season in Cortina d' Ampezzo for 2024/25 is expected to start on November 16th and run until April 27th. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Cortina d'Ampezzo this season, be sure to explore our Cortina d'Ampezzo ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Cortina d'Ampezzo snow history
Cortina offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 25 cm and 21 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.7 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall increases to 27 cm and it occurs more frequently, averaging 3.5 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of February, traditionally the snowiest week in Cortina, with an impressive 41 cm of snow over 4.1 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 22 cm of snow over 3.3 days.
Ristorante Des Alpes: Located high up in the mountains, this restaurant provides panoramic views along alpine specialties.
5 Torri: A true mountain retreat, 5 Torri offers traditional dishes that reflect the flavors of the region.
Resort restaurants
Il Vizietto di Cortina: A popular spot among locals and tourists alike, Il Vizietto offers a delightful menu that blends traditional Italian dishes with modern culinary techniques.
Ristorante Tivoli: Known for its gourmet cuisine, Ristorante Tivoli boasts an array of exquisite dishes prepared with the finest local ingredients.
La Passeggiata di Cortina: Situated in the heart of Cortina, this restaurant is a blend of tradition and innovation with a chic ambience and a menu that celebrates local flavors.
Ristorante Amadeus: A harmonious blend of Italian and international cuisine, with a carefully curated wine list.
Leone & Anna: Celebrating the rich culinary heritage of the Dolomites, Leone & Anna offers a variety of traditional dishes prepared with a modern twist.
Il Ponte: A classic choice for those craving authentic Italian fare.
Things to do in Cortina d'Ampezzo
Cross-country skiing
Snowshoe walking
Snow kiting
Fat biking
Ice skating
Curling
Dog sledding
Wellness & spa
Cortina d'Ampezzo apres ski and nightlife
Après ski bars
Bar Sport: A classic apres ski spot.
1224 Bar Lounge: Combining elegance with the traditional spirit of apres ski, 1224 Bar Lounge is a chic place to relax with a cocktail in hand.
Janbo: A favorite among the locals and tourists alike.
Belvedere: With its panoramic views of the Dolomites, Belvedere is the ideal place to enjoy a drink, watching the sunset over the mountains.
Bar El Becalen: Known for its rustic charm and warm ambiance.
Nightclubs
Vip Club: With its modern interiors and a line-up of top DJs, it's the place to be for those looking to dance the night away.
Bilbo Club: A staple in Cortina's nightlife.
Area 51: A modern and trendy club, the perfect venue for those wanting to party till the wee hours.
La Suite: An upscale nightclub offering a curated music selection, premium drinks, and a refined crowd.
