Ortisei stands out as a vibrant and characterful ski resort within the expansive Dolomiti Superski. Among the most charming ski resorts in Italy, Ortisei boasts a lively pedestrianized center adorned with upscale shops and inviting cafés.
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 Ortisei 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.
Ortisei is located in the Val Gardena valley in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy.
Nearest airport
Bolzano (40 km)
Transfer time
Bolzano (1hr)
Ortisei the resort
Resort altitude: 1230 m
Resort permanent residents: 4637
Ortisei, reflecting a rich blend of cultures from its past Austrian influence, often resonates with the sounds of German more than Italian. This harmonious fusion is showcased in its delightful cuisine, fine wines, and warm hospitality. As Val Gardena's largest village, Ortisei charms with pastel-colored buildings, abundant woodcarving workshops, a historic church, and a lively café culture. Its buildings are notable for detailed wood carvings and colorful, flower-decked balconies, enhancing the town's vibrant yet cozy feel. The pedestrian zone at the heart of Ortisei buzzes with life, hosting a variety of shops, cafes, and galleries that celebrate local artisan crafts, especially woodcarving, attracting both locals and tourists to its relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Pros
Cons
One of the main towns in the Val Gardena valley
The resort can get busy
Efficient and modern ski lift network
Limited off-piste
Lively après ski scene
Accommodation hard to get
One of the world's most spectacular mountain areas
Kilometres of pistes: 175 km (1200 km - Dolomiti Superski)
Vertical drop: 1030 m
Ski lifts: 87
Ortisei, as part of the Dolomiti Superski area, offers an extensive skiing experience with over 1220 km of pistes in the combined area. Ortisei itself features 175 km of skiable terrain, distributed across 58 runs (54% blues, 35% reds, 12% blacks), all served by 87 ski lifts. The ski area is divided into two main skiing sectors:
Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm): This area is an intermediate's paradise with short blue and red runs amidst stunning scenery. Accessed by the Monte Sëuc gondola, it features easy runs for low intermediates and more challenging routes for those venturing further. Chairlifts like Sanon, Steger Dellai, Laurin, and Spitzbühl provide a variety of intermediate runs. Compatsch, accessible by the Seiser Alm gondola, serves as a central point to explore the southern slopes and the scenic red trails leading to the Florian chairlift.
Val Furnes: On the northern side, two gondolas lead up to Col Raiser above Santa Cristina. This sector features a long, scenic red run that descends back to the gondola base. Along this run, there are numerous spots to enjoy local cuisine and refreshments. This area provides a different perspective of the Val Gardena region, offering a quieter but equally enjoyable skiing experience.
Skiing in Ortisei
Beginners
Ortisei is an ideal starting point for those new to skiing. With village nursery slopes for initial practice and the Alpe di Suisi just a gondola ride away, beginners can quickly progress. This region, especially near the Al Sole and Mezdi chairlifts, boasts gentle, wide runs that help instill confidence in newbies.
Intermediates
Intermediate skiers, with an expansive 52 km of pistes tailored for them, they can explore the variety of blue and red runs without repetition. The Sella Ronda circuit, Seceda sector for high-altitude challenges, and Mont de Seura are just a few of the highlights. Additionally, the resort's proximity to Corvara and the Alta Badia circuit ensures an inexhaustible skiing experience with a myriad of mountain restaurants for mid-day breaks.
Advanced
For those seeking more challenging terrains, Ortisei doesn’t disappoint. The resort offers the adrenaline-pumping 10.5 km run from the Seceda mountain station, the 3 km Saslong route, and the Men's World Cup run in St Cristina, ensuring a thrilling experience. Further afield in Val Gardena, advanced skiers can challenge themselves on the renowned World Cup downhill course, and even further in the Dolomiti Superski area, the opportunities are vast.
Snowboarding
Snowboarders in Ortisei are in for a treat with wide-open pistes providing endless mileage. The little ones, can enjoy the Furdenan snowpark with many different games, and little obstacles to help them have fun, while building self-confidence and self-esteem.
Ortisei ski season dates
The ski season in Ortisei 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 Ortisei this season, be sure to explore our Ortisei ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Ortisei snow history
Ortisei offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 18 cm and 15 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.8 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly increases to 19 cm and it occurs more frequently, averaging 3.3 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of February, traditionally the snowiest week in Ortisei, with an impressive 28 cm of snow over 3.9 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 14 cm of snow over 2.5 days.
Baita Pauli: Perched on the mountain, with traditional Alpine dishes and a cozy atmosphere, it's a favorite spot among locals.
Baita Curona: Nestled amidst the snow-capped peaks, Baita Curona promises hearty mountain meals with a view.
Baita Gran Paradiso: With its delectable cuisine and panoramic views, it's a must-visit for those exploring the pistes.
Baita Pastura: A haven for those seeking authentic mountain flavors, Baita Pastura prides itself on its local dishes and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular pit stop.
Resort restaurants
Genziana Restaurant: Celebrating the flavors of the region, this restaurant serves up traditional dishes with a contemporary twist.
Terrazza: Offering a blend of Italian and international cuisines, Terrazza is known for its diverse menu and relaxed ambiance.
Zicoria Brasserie: With its chic interiors and curated menu, Zicoria Brasserie brings a touch of sophistication to Ortisei.
Tubladel: With its friendly service and welcoming atmosphere, it's a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Things to do in Ortisei
Swimming pools and sauna
Hot springs
Ice hockey matches
Leisure centre
Local interest museum
Cross-country skiing
Outdoor ice skating
Paragliding
Ortisei apres ski and nightlife
Après ski bars
Siglu: Serving cold brews amidst a vibrant ambiance, fun is guaranteed.
Apres Ski Seceda: As its name suggests, this bar is a hotspot right off the Seceda slopes.
Purgers Pub: A quintessential alpine pub, its rustic setting and jovial vibe make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Soviso Cafe: More than just a café, Soviso blends the warmth of an après ski bar with the elegance of a café.
Bar Dima: Known for its extensive drink menu and friendly bartenders, Bar Dima ensures a memorable après ski experience.
Nightclubs
Bar 181: As night falls, with its state-of-the-art sound system and resident DJs, it promises a night of dancing and fun.
The Vinoteque: A unique blend of a wine bar and nightclub, here you get a curated selection of wines, complemented by an electrifying night-time atmosphere.
Maurizkeller: One of Ortisei's iconic nightclubs, Maurizkeller guarantees a night of energy and excitement.
