Val Gardena is the most popular Alpine destination in Italy

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a destinazione alpina più apprezzata d’Italia

 

According to a recent Enit survey, the National Tourism Agency, recently reported by the national daily newspaper La Stampa, the summer season just ended can be defined as the summer of records in the Alpine area. A sign of the times, which leads people to prefer quieter and less crowded destinations, but also a sign of a reversal of the trend: it is no longer true that in summer Italians prefer white beaches.

More and more persons prefer the mountains

People seem to be increasingly attracted by the mountains and the authentic hospitality of the various Alpine resorts, they able to guarantee a tourist offer that ranges from culture to sport, from nature to typical food and wine. A revolution, especially if you think that until a few years ago the summer holiday in the mountains was considered “démodé” and was chosen only by 15% of Italians (Eumetra 2016 survey). This year, on the other hand, mountain holidays have become trendy, especially if spent in famous locations.

Val Gardena is the most appreciated Alpine destination

According to the well-known Italian daily newspaper, the Dolomites (a UNESCO World Heritage) also took advantage of this boom and proved to be the most popular Alpine destination. Val Gardena in particular is considered the most popular and enjoyable Alpine destination in Italy, ahead of Val di Fassa, Courmayeur and Madonna di Campiglio.

“This news naturally fills us with great pride and can be considered as the just recognition for the great work done in recent years by all the tourist operators in Val Gardena” explains Günther Pitscheider, Director of Val Gardena-Gröden Marketing. Coming out top – underlines Pitscheider – is a strong signal that the path taken is the right one, and gives us further motivation to continue along it”.

INFO: Val Gardena

 

 

Sunset hike in the Burning Dolomites #BURNINGDOLOMITES

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Italien, Suedtirol, Dolomiten, Groeden, Val Gardena, St. Ulrich Blick von der Bergstation Seiser Alm auf die Langkoffel Gruppe

A special wonder of nature can be observed in Val Gardena during the autumn months, the so-called Burning Dolomites.
Here, the needles of the larches turn from green to yellow and then to glowing orange, red and brown. At the same time, special and particularly low sunrays color the Dolomites wonderfully red.

From September 13th and November 3rd 2017, hikers can experience this unique moment on guided sunset hikes every Wednesday and on guided daytrips every Friday.

Discover the programme of the sunset hikes here.

INFO: Val Gardena

Dolomites Horse Show
The Experience of a Lifetime

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After the runaway success of the first edition, prepare to welcome the second edition of Dolomites Horse Show between 6 and 9 July in Selva di Val Gardena (Italy). This year, the show has decided to substitute the CSI3* with the more prestigious CSI4*, as well as adding the CSI2* that will go towards the Gran Prix ranking.

The change results in a higher technical challenge of the already difficult competitions. The prestige and prize money of the event have also increased.

Selva di Val Gardena has always been a welcoming location, making it a 5-star destination and an ideal setting for the show. The hospitality offer has been expanded to make the four-day stay of horse show fans one to remember.

Val Gardena is a fairy-tale valley surrounded by stunning mountains, verdant forests and well-known for its picturesque villages: all this will contribute to making an already special event unforgettable.

HOTELS. The Dolomites Horse Show relies on the partnership with two prestigious hotels to offer a one-of-a-kind hospitality experience that has made Val Gardena famous for in the past. The Granvara Hotel and Gran Baita Hotel share the pride and joy of Selva di Val Gardena. A refined ambience, pure relaxation, and utmost comfort are the traits of this structure that will make guests feel right at home.

RIDERS’ CLUB. The access to the stands is free but, should you really want to experience the excitement of the show from the ‘inside’, then the Dolomites Horse Show has thought of different tailored solutions for you. The access to the Riders’ Club will allow enthusiasts to meet the protagonists of this event in their reserved space and to taste the all-inclusive culinary offer: breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea with wine, champagne, and soft drinks. Access to the Riders’ Club can be purchased as follows:

Daily pass (excl. Sunday) – 100 EUR

Sunday pass – 150 EUR

Four-day pass – 300 EUR

VIP AREA.  The Organising Committee wanted to offer the possibility of following the show from a reserved area. If you would like to make the most of the said offer, get ready to savour the joys of an open bar and delight in a tailored menu created by a Michelin-starred chef for the occasion. You can purchase the offer on a daily basis or for the entire period of the event. The Organising Committee is more than happy to help make the Dolomites Horse Show an unforgettable experience.

To book your spot, please write to office@dolomiteshorseshow.com or call +39 3398021926. Also refer to the Organising Committee if you wish to register for the CSI4* or CSI2* events.

INFO: Val Gardena

Val Gardena – Dolomites Horse Show.
The 2017 edition of the wonderful Italian show is scheduled from the 6th to the 9th of July

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Following the great success of the first edition, Selva di Val Gardena will once again welcome the Dolomites Horse Show, a sporting event of the highest caliber, which attracts the very best of international show jumping to its unique setting.

The show is scheduled from the 6th to the 9th of July, and during the four days of competitions, amazing horses will take the field with their riders in this suggestive location that has no equals in the world. Indeed, the event, which is supported by Val Gardena and Südtirol, will take place in the wonderful Vallunga, a UNESCO natural heritage, and perfect scenery for a show that brings together sport and elegance. In the heart of the North-Western Dolomites, between the Massiccio del Sella, Passo Sella, Passo Gardena and Ponte Gardena, Val Gardena attracts tourists and mountaineers from all over the world.

What better place then to take international show jumping? The feedback from the audience and insiders has been overwhelming, and has convinced Alex Delazer, an International rider himself and creator of the event, that his idea was a winning one. The first edition of the Dolomites Horse Show has entered the rich history of sports of SouthTyrol. After the legendary Ski World Cup, the ATP Tennis Challenger and the Südtirol Dolomites HERO, Val Gardena has in fact become part of the exclusive locations hosting the most prestigious horse shows. This year, the CSI3*, heart of the show, has been replaced by a CSI4*, thereby raising the technical level of the show. With this quality leap, the already significant amount of prize money has been increased, reaching a total of 250,000 euros.

The best horses and riders in the world will meet in Selva di Val Gardena to compete in five classes, which are all valid for the Longines World Ranking List. The most anticipated moment will for sure be the Grand Prix, which will see the best 30 riders of the world Ranking List take the field, and which will conclude the event. Next to the CSI4* show, the second edition of the Dolomites Horse Show will also host a CSI1* show, reserved for amateurs and the young promising riders of this sport, which will allow its participants to ride next to the great riders.

Show Jumping is a sport that brings with it the beau monde and Val Gardena is ready to welcome it appropriately: the VIP area, with a fantastic view over the main arena, offers an all-inclusive service with menus created by the best Italian chefs, accompanied by a selection of fine wines, champagne, and cocktails.

The event will be covered extensively by the media, and also be live on TV thanks to partnerships with national television, Eurosport, Class Horse Tv and Horse & Country. This media coverage will offer the show the opportunity to enter more than 100 million homes, speaking twenty different languages. During the first edition, the Dolomites Horse Show has been followed by the whole world with a tremendous amount of interest: more than 20,000 connections have been registered during the live streaming and numerous were those who watched the Grand Prix on Sky.

The show is invitational. For entries please refer directly to the Show Office at: office@dolomiteshorseshow.com.

INFO:  Val Gardena

Rabanser And Stuffer Triumph At The 2017 Gardenissima

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614px511-gardenissima2017-alexander-rabanser-302x251Alexander Rabanser delivered a blistering display of skill on the pistes of Val Gardena to finish ahead of Luca and Jonas Senoner. Christof Innerhofer had the best time overall, but he was disqualified for missing a gate. The women’s category was topped by Verena Stuffer who held sway over Nicol and Nadia Delago.

A total of 650 skiers from 16 nations lined out for the event 

The 21st edition of the Südtirol Gardenissima, the world’s longest giant slalom, delivered thrills and spills aplenty as it brought the Alpine skiing season to a fittingly exciting close today. The stunning backdrop of the Dolomites combined with the warmth and enthusiasm of the spectators helped boost the already-spectacular performances of the athletes as they started their descent from the top of Monte Seceda and then shot down the piste (shortened for safety reasons) to the finish-line in the Costes area.  

The fastest of the 650 participants was the italian Alexander Rabanser who stopped the clock in 2’17.85. 2″72 behind him was Luca Senoner, while Jonas Senoner finished third in a time of 2’21.84.

There was huge excitement too around the participation of Kasete Naufahu Skeen, the first Tongan skier to compete in the Alpine Skiing World Championship. He finished his race in a time of 3’05.90, but he was disqualified for missing a gate.  

The women athletes delivered equally impressive performances with Verena Stuffer proving exceptionally skilled at weaving in and out of the gates, to make it first across the line in a time of 2’20.98. Nicol Delago could not catch Stuffer, however, and finished second, 2″91 behind her. The bottom step of the ladies’ podium went to Nadia Delago who crossed the line in a time of 2’24.16.

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There was great applause and cheering from the crowd for the large group of Ski Legends as they completed their descent. First of the former champions to cross the line in this special category was Luca Senoner who finished second overall. He was 1″27 faster than Jonas Senoner and Federico Vanz. The first of the women to finish was Regina Haeusl, from Germany,  who triumphed in style over Paola Magoni and Daniela Zini. 

Delivering its usual magical mix of music, sport and fun, the Gardenissima once again proved a truly fantastic festival of snow, drawing in and involving everyone from amateur to professional skiers as well as promising young talents and families. And of course, a large group of very appreciative spectators. The fun continues tomorrow with the Südtirol Gardenissima Kids for young skiers born between 2003 and 2010.   

Südtirol Gardenissima 2017
21° Edition – Val Gardena (BZ) 

Men’s classification:
1. Alexander Rabanser                    (ITA)   2’17.85
2. Luca Senoner                              (ITA)    2’20.57
3. Jonas Senoner                            (ITA)    2’21.84
4. Federico Vanz                              (ITA)   2’21.84
5. Werner Perathoner                      (ITA)    2’26.15


Women’s classification:
1. Verena Stuffer                             (ITA)    2’20.98
2. Nicol Delago                                (ITA)    2’23.89
3. Nadia Delago                              (ITA)     2’24.16
4. Macarena Simari Birkner            (ARG)   2’26.19
5. Maria Belen Simari Birkner         (ARG)   2’27.21 

 

For further information: Südtirol Gardenissima
Val Gardena

 

5 Awards For Val Gardena The Best Skiresort in the Dolomites!

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A host of prizes and recognitions for Val Gardena as the best ski destination in South Tyrol, the Dolomites, and Italy.

The fact that Val Gardena is an exceptional resort in which to pass winter holidays is now universally known and accepted, and proof of this is seen in the awards given over recent years and the awards of 2016 are particularly important. On the back of these awards it is not outlandish to claim that Val Gardena has become the best ski destination in the Dolomites.

The Skiresort.com site, is the premier reference in the world for skiers, has awarded Val Gardena “5 stars” as the best ski resort and as the best ski carousel with the Sellaronda; whilst Snow-online.com, the site which as well as giving information on the nature of ski slopes, offers a panorama on the latest trends in winter sports and descriptions of holiday opportunities and experiences, has placed Val Gardena in 5° position amongst the Top 10 ski resorts in the world.

Also the British Skiclub.co.uk has re-elected Val Gardena in 1° position amongst the 3 best European destinations and Snowplaza, another platform dedicated to skiing, and on a basis of a poll carried out at European level so as to vote for the best ski resorts in the Alps, has resulted in Val Gardena being considered the winning resort out of the Top Italian Ski Resorts 2016 and also finishing in sixth position among the best in the Alps.

Last but not least, yesterday came the news that worldskiawards.com has put Val Gardena in 1° position as Italy’s Best Ski Resort 2016.

There are many factors contributing to Val Gardena always being among the first places when it comes to nominations at Italian, European and world level: the range of slopes, modern lift systems, ideal hotel establishments, the expertise and professionalism of the ski schools, the Ladin culture and traditions, the welcome and corteous nature of the local folk. And it is these same characteristics which make Val Gardena the ideal location to enjoy a fantastic holiday in every way.

INFO: Val Gardena

Skiing in Val Gardena

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Val Gardena boasts a centuries-old history in tourism and can connect its strong and fascinating culture with cutting-edge technology and infrastructures, creating an ideal holiday destination for all winter sport lovers. The big novelty for the next winter season will be a state-of-the-art heated 8-seat cable car, the Gran Paradiso, the first of its kind in Italy, which will cover a longer route to also connect to the anticlockwise track of the Sellaronda, linking it to the renowned ’City of Rocks’. The new cable car, besides its functional aspect and comfort, was also developed to deliver a pleasant experience for its users. It’s fitted with beautiful blue-tinted glass which will contribute in giving an even more spectacular view compared to the usual smoky grey used for cable car pods. It will carry up to 2,200 people per hour, cover 1 km and an elevation difference of 231 metres in 3.21 minutes and will be open for business from 4th December.

‘Ladies First’

Val Gardena Active ‘Ladies Special’ is a winter programme dedicated to women who want to spend a holiday in this charming Dolomite valley delving into cultural, cooking, and sportive activities.

‘Ladies Special’ includes various activities with one single common element: relaxation. Every day will see a range of on foot excursions, morning fitness, and cooking classes which will help you relax like you never can back at home.

This programme bursting with events will allow you to discover how much Val Gardena can offer from a natural and cultural perspective.

At the end of an intense day, the centre of the villages of Ortisei, Santa Cristina, and Selva Val Gardena are a great destination for an aperitif with friends or some shopping. Every activity of the ‘Ladies Special’ programme varies in price, with discounts for Val Gardena Active partners.

Further information here. 


Christmas Valley

Christmas in Val Gardena is somewhat of a tradition, yet more than in any other corner of the world. The three main villages prepare to spend this magical period following their traditions. Selva di Val Gardena is ready to stage ‘Mountain Christmas’. The mountain village is located in the heart of the Dolomites, at the foot of the Sella Massif, it’s the highest village in Val Gardena, resting on the legendary ski-tour ‘Sellaronda’ where skiing means having a blast on over 500 km of slopes.

Even this year, the skiing slopes will be transferred to the traffic-free part of the village between 2 December and 8 January, the track lit up thanks to an uninterrupted strip of light of approximately 350 metres, and 12 small wooden cable car pods where you can sample gingerbread, mulled wine, homemade cakes, artisanal chocolate, and purchase unique gifts for next Christmas.

A swirling array of Christmas decorations and twinkling lights, together with the sweet tunes of Christmas Carols will uplift the spirits of everyone and light that spark of happiness and surprise in the eyes of children. Moreover, the traditional art of sculpting in Val Gardena will be showcased in the beautiful nativity scene exhibition. www.mountain-christmas.com

Ortisei will become a Christmas Village, shrouded in fairy lights. The market will be carefully prepared, steeped in a unique atmosphere where Christmas Carols will ring in the air, and tourists can taste homemade bakes, touch wooden hand carved objects, admire the lights and surroundings, and catch a tempting waft of food and wood which will warm up the atmosphere. A run-up to Christmas bursting with emotions and experiences. The stands sport countless products, all original and authentic, from sculptures, wooden tools, Advent wreaths, lanterns and frames, candles to felt products.

Choirs will perform every day and the mountain horns will fill the valleys, and you can take part in courses to learn how to create traditional wooden Ladin tools or recipes.

Children will also be able to send their letters in a dedicated post box on Piazza Stetteneck, knowing they will reach Father Christmas’ house safe and sound. www.nadelurtijei.it

The Santa Cristina Christmas Market traditionally offers typical products, crafts, and local cooking. Located in a beautiful scenic location at the foot of the Sassolungo and Castel Gardena, it has always delivered a unique atmosphere and plenty of good ideas for Christmas presents.

The varied offer of Tyrolean sweets and specialties will delight the palate of visitors, who can also attend live performances of local wood-carving masters and listen to mountain music and melodies. Every weekend and on festivities, between 10 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. gingerbread biscuits and delicious ‘Spitzbuben’, shortcrust pastry biscuits filled with apricot marmalade, will be taken hot out of the oven. www.mercatino-natale.it

Val Gardena yet again cements its reputation as the ‘Christmas Valley’, offering plenty of events dedicated to the most important celebration of the year.

INFO: Val Gardena

 

VAL GARDENA: Prizes and Awards, an International Valley if There Ever Was One

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Val Gardena has what some may call an international siren call, as proven by the numerous tourists from all corners of the world and its membership of the ‘Leading Mountain Resorts of the World’, an association which pools all main mountain tourist destinations which offer high-quality holidays. 

Besides Val Gardena, Saas Fee (Switzerland), Åre (Sweden), Banff/Lake Louise (Canada), Bariloche (South America) and Queenstown (New Zealand) are also part of this elite group.

In the last years, Val Gardena has received numerous recognitions, including five stars as ‘best skiing area’ by German website skiresort.de, one of the most important in the world for assessing skiing areas. Moreover, famous travel portal Trip Advisor awarded Selva Val Gardena the 6th place out of the top 10 most voted in the annual ‘Travellers Choice Award’ where tourists vote the best holiday destinations, placing just after the city of art par excellence and some beach locations.

 

Start and end of season offers.

All Dolomiti Superski ski passes (daily and multiday 2-28 days) are free for children up to 8 when purchased with the same type and duration adult ski pass. Even young skiers are entitled to discounts of 30%. If you’re hunting for a bargain, i.e. a beautiful holiday in Val Gardena for a deal, there are very interesting start and end of season offers.

From 25 November to 24 December 2016, the SuperPremière offers will allow you to spend 4 nights with ski pass and rental of equipment for the price of 3. From 18 March to end of the season, the Val Gardena Family Special, many establishments taking part in the initiative, will offer accommodation, ski pass and free hire, as well as special discounts for children. Moreover Val Gardena SuperSun will offer 7 nights for the price of 6 and ski rental for 6 days for the price of 5. Further information at www.valgardena.it.

Highlights – winter sports

Fis Ski World Cup: 16/17 December 2016

Vertical Up 21 January 2017

Skitouring MOVE: 11 March 2017

Sellaronda Skimarathon: 24 March 2017

Südtirol Gardenissima: 01 April 2017

Südtirol Gardenissima KIDS 02 April 2017

Highlights – culture

Christmas Market: 2 December 2016/8 January 2017, S. Cristina

Christmas Village: 1 December 2016/8 January 2017, Ortisei

Mountain Christmas 2 December 2016/8 January 2017, Selva

Snow sculpture competition: 27/30 December 2016, Selva

Ice sculpture competition: 20 January 2017, Ortisei

Rock The Dolomites 12/19 March 2017, Selva.

INFO: Val Gardena

Val Gardena Groden Vertical Up: Master the Saslong Uphill in Record Time

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The Organizing Committee of the Ski World Cup is presenting a new and interesting event with VAL GARDENA – GRÖDEN VERTICAL UP.

While each December the world’s best speed specialists thunder down the Saslong from Start to Finish fighting for record times, on January 21st, 2017, endurance specialists will try to achieve the opposite by completing the climb from Finish to Start in the shortest time. It means that they will try to conquer the classic World Cup course uphill from bottom to top as quickly as possible. 

There are two options: the long and the short distance. The original course measured 3.5 km and 830 m in altitude difference; the shortened track is 1.986 km long and has an altitude difference of 590 m. The Start is at 1410 m above sea level, the Finish at 2249 and 2000 m, respectively. The maximum gradient is 56%, the average gradient 24.5%.

What’s most interesting about the competition is that there are practically no rules: the choice of materials and equipment is free, as long as the ascent is propelled by one’s own power. Light is provided by head lamps and key sections are additionally lit by standing lights provided by the OC. The ascent lines of both routes are also free of choice. 

Men and women will be ranked separately: there is a speed and a backpack category. The Speed Class winner is who is fastest at vertically mastering the Saslong. Ranks 1-6 will be awarded cash prizes. There are also gift certificates and non-cash prizes to be won. The Back-pack Class crowns the participant who clocks the time closest to the average time of all participants. An absolute “entertainment competition”. A maximum of 1500 athletes are allowed at the start. 

In addition to the general and category ranking, there are also regional and team rankings. And there is a special prize for whoever reaches the Camel Humps first. Same goes for the athlete who conquers the steepest part (the “spinel” or back) in the shortest amount of time.  

Registration begins on October 10th, 2016 at 8:16 PM and closes on January 14th, 2017 at 8:00 pm CET. Late entries at an extra fee accepted at the race office January 21st, 2017 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

VERTICAL UP venues include:

  • Hinterstoder (Hannes Trinkl Course) 7.01.2017
  • Val Gardena-Gröden (Saslong) 21.01.2017
  • Pinzolo-Madonna di Campiglio (Tulot Audi course) 28.01.2017
  • Kitzbühel (Streif) 25.02.2017
  • Wengen (Lauberhorn) 25.03.2017

INFO: VAL GARDENA – GRÖDEN VERTICAL UP

Val Gardena