Selva  di  Val  Gardena

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 26 November 2023
​The ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena is situated within the Province of South Tyrol. It stands at an elevation of 1,563 metres above sea level and has a population of around 2,600.

​Places of interest nearby include Santa Cristina in Val Gardena and Plan de Gralba while the recommended accommodation for Selva di Val Gardena is the Hotel Laurin Small & Charming.
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Profile
Selva di Val Gardena, also known as Wolkenstein in Gröden in German, is a charming village located in the Val Gardena valley in the province of Bolzano, Trentino-Alto Adige region, in northern Italy.

​Situated in the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Selva di Val Gardena is a popular destination for both summer and winter tourism. The village offers stunning alpine landscapes, excellent ski slopes, and a rich cultural heritage.
History
The history of Selva di Val Gardena dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlements in the area since prehistoric times. In the Middle Ages, the village was part of the County of Tyrol and was inhabited by the Ladin-speaking people.

​Over the centuries, the region became known for its woodcarving tradition and its flourishing tourism industry, making it one of the most famous destinations in the Dolomites.
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Skiing and Winter Sports: Selva di Val Gardena is part of the Dolomiti Superski area, one of the largest and most renowned ski areas in the world. It offers access to an extensive network of ski slopes and modern ski facilities, making it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts.
  • Hiking and Outdoor Activities: During the summer months, the village becomes a hiking and mountaineering hub, with numerous trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints and alpine meadows. Visitors can also enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing, and paragliding.
  • Sellaronda: Selva di Val Gardena is a starting point for the famous Sellaronda, a ski circuit that takes you around the Sella Massif, offering spectacular views of the Dolomite peaks.
  • Ladin Culture: The village is part of the Ladin-speaking region, and visitors can experience the rich Ladin culture through local traditions, cuisine, and events.
  • Scenic Beauty: Selva di Val Gardena is surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty, including the iconic peaks of the Sassolungo and the Sella Group.
  • Cultural Heritage: The village has preserved its Alpine architecture and features beautiful churches and historic buildings, such as the Church of Santa Maria.
  • Val Gardena Museum: The Val Gardena Museum in Selva di Val Gardena provides insights into the history, culture, and natural heritage of the region.
  • Local Cuisine: Visitors can savor delicious South Tyrolean cuisine in the village's restaurants, with dishes like canederli, spaetzle, and traditional dumplings.
Comune di Selva di Val Gardena
Gemeinde Wolkenstein in Gröden
Province: Bolzano

Region: ​Trentino Alto Adige South Tyrol

Population: 2,736 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2022)​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

​​​​​Size: 53 km²

Elevation: 1,563 metres

​Close by: Santa Cristina in Val Gardena, Plan de Gralba, Ortisei

Recommended accommodation: Hotel Laurin Small & Charming

​Selva  di  Val  Gardena  Gallery

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