Everything you need for your Selva Val Gardena ski holiday.
10th November, 2024
5 min read time
Selva Val Gardena boasts a stunning location amidst the Sassolungo, Puez, and the Sella Massif mountains. As a prominent destination among Italy's ski resorts, Selva Val Gardena offers world-class skiing, suitable for both beginners and World Cup aficionados. Here, you can indulge in the unique blend of Italian flair and Austrian charm, all under the vast expanse of the Dolomiti Superski.
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 Selva Val Gardena 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.
Selva di Val Gardena is located in the Val Gardena valley in northern Italy, in the province of South Tyrol (Südtirol).
Nearest airport
Bolzano (46 km)
Transfer time
Bolzano (1hr 06 min)
Selva Val Gardena the resort
Resort altitude: 1563 m
Resort permanent residents: 2551
Nestled beneath the towering plateaus of the Sella group in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites, Selva di Val Gardena, known locally as Sëlva or Wolkenstein, is a picturesque village that harmoniously blends modernity with rural life, sports, and relaxation. As a crucial access point to the renowned Sellaronda skiing circuit within the expansive Dolomiti Superski area, Selva stands as an emblem of the best of Italian and South Tyrolean traditions. The resort is adorned with family-run hotels, restaurants, and multifunctional spots that serve as both lunch venues and evening bars. Its rich Ladino culture, combined with breathtaking landscapes and diverse winter activities, from skiing to ice skating, ensures a unique and immersive holiday experience. Additionally, the après-ski scene is lively, featuring an array of bierkellers, bars, and pubs, all reflecting the town's unique blend of Austrian and Italian influences.
Pros
Cons
State-of-the-art lift network
Can get very busy
Part of the largest ski carousel
Limited off-piste
Terrain for all levels, including World cup level ski runs
Accommodation can be relatively expensive
Lively après ski scene
N/A
Here is what it's like at Selva Val Gardena resort
Kilometres of pistes: 175 km ( 1200 km - Dolomiti Superski)
Vertical drop: 880 m
Ski lifts: 80
Selva di Val Gardena, nestled in the Dolomites, forms a key part of the Dolomiti Superski area, offering access to over 1200 km of ski runs across various resorts including Canazei, Campitello di Fassa, and Ortisei. The resort itself features 175 km of skiable terrain, with 105 pistes (40 blues, 53 reds, 12 blacks) served by 80 lifts. The ski area is divided into three main skiing sectors:
Dantercepies: This sector offers a diverse range of slopes and is known for its well-maintained pistes that cater to both intermediate and advanced skiers. It provides stunning views and challenging runs, making it a popular choice for those seeking an exhilarating skiing experience.
Passo Gardena/Grödner Joch: This area is a focal point for skiers looking to explore a variety of terrains. It connects Selva di Val Gardena with other areas of the Dolomiti Superski, offering extensive skiing opportunities across different landscapes and difficulty levels.
Ciampinoi: Known for its challenging red and black runs, Ciampinoi is ideal for advanced skiers. The sector also provides some scenic routes and is a gateway to the famous Sellaronda ski circuit, adding to its appeal.
Skiing in Selva Val Gardena
Beginners
Newbies in the world of skiing are welcomed at the east-facing beginner area just on the edge of Selva village. Ideal for picking up the basics, this area offers a nurturing environment with the ski school lessons taking place on the nursery slopes below the Dantercepies gondola. As beginners gain confidence, the gentle blues up in the Plan de Gralba area await, providing a progressive platform to hone skills.
Intermediates
Selva, with its expansive 175 km, is a paradise for intermediates. Boasting a plethora of wide, well-groomed pistes, it offers speedy links to the iconic 42 km Sella Ronda circuit. The tree-lined reds at Campinoi and Plan de Gralba are perfect starting points. For those seeking thrill and pace, the 10.5 km run at Ortisei, affectionately called the James Bond run, promises an exhilarating experience.
Advanced
Expert skiers will relish the challenges posed by the long red runs from Dantercepies and the renowned Saslong World Cup piste. Steep slopes, particularly around Saslong Mountain and the Seceda area, provide the adrenaline rush that advanced skiers often crave.
Off-piste skiing
The Dolomites offer off-piste enthusiasts an exhilarating experience, especially with the pristine powdered runs in areas like Forcella Mezdì, the Val Lasties, and the Forcella del Pordoi. Amidst the breathtaking Val Gardena scenery, these locations present some of the most picturesque and thrilling deep-snow runs.
Snowboarding
The Sella Ronda circuit, enveloping the Dolomites around the Sella Massif, beckons snowboarders for a scenic 42 km ride. For those looking to showcase or develop their tricks, the Alpe di Siusi park, spanning 2 km, is packed with an array of features to delight snowboarders.
Selva Val Gardena ski season dates
The ski season in Selva Val Gardena for 2024/25 is expected to start on December 5th and run until April 6th. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Selva Val gardena this season, be sure to explore our Selva Val Gardena ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Selva Val Gardena snow history
Selva di Val Gardena offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 19 cm and 17 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.8 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly increases to 22 cm and it occurs more frequently, averaging 3.4 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of February, traditionally the snowiest week in Selva di Val Gardena, with an impressive 32 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 16 cm of snow over 2.6 days.
Baita Cason: A classic mountain retreat offering traditional alpine dishes.
Baita Pauli: This cozy mountain hut is renowned for its hearty local cuisine and warm atmosphere.
Bergchalet Restaurant Resciesa: Set atop the slopes, this restaurant provides a combination of local flavors and modern culinary delights.
Ciadinat Hut: A true skier's haven, this hut offers mouthwatering local specialties and a rustic setting that enhances the mountain dining experience.
Resort restaurants
Spekkeller restaurant: A unique spot in the heart of Selva, famous for its Tyrolean dishes and an extensive selection of regional wines.
Nives: Bringing gourmet cuisine to Selva, this restaurant promises a fine dining experience with a menu that combines local produce with international flair.
Da Zenz restaurant: A family-run establishment, Da Zenz offers the warmth of traditional Ladin hospitality paired with a menu rich in regional dishes.
La Stua: With a cozy ambiance and a menu that celebrates the best of Italian and Tyrolean cuisines, La Stua is a must-visit.
Things to do in Selva Val Gardena
Bowling
Climbing wall
Ice hockey matches
Health Spa
Walking trails
Fitness & wellness
Indoor/outdoor ice skating
Cross-country skiing
Paragliding
Selva Val Gardena apres ski and nightlife
Après ski bars
La Stua: Beyond its culinary delights, La Stua also offers a vibrant après-ski scene.
Luislkeller: A traditional alpine bar, Luislkeller is the perfect place to enjoy a hot beverage or local brew amidst rustic interiors.
Bar Saltos: Popular among skiers, this bar offers a warm atmosphere and a selection of cocktails.
Bar Oswald: Centrally located, this is a go-to spot for those looking to mingle with fellow skiers.
Snowbar: An icy paradise where skiers can relish chilled drinks against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Nightclubs
Greens Lounge Bar: This upscale lounge offers an eclectic mix of music and a sophisticated ambiance.
Siglu: A modern clubbing destination with vibrant music, a lively crowd, and an experience to remember.
Kronestube: With its pulsating beats and energetic atmosphere, Kronestube is the place to be.
