Val  Gardena​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 17 January 2024
​The Val Gardena mountain area is situated within the Province of South Tyrol and rises to a maximum elevation of 2,518 metres above sea level. Highlights of the area include the towns of Santa Cristina in Val Gardena and Selva di Val Gardena.

Verona Airport is two hours and 13 minutes away by car while the recommended accommodation is Hotel Laurin Small & Charming.
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Profile
Val Gardena is a picturesque valley located in the Dolomite Mountains of Northern Italy, in the region of South Tyrol (Südtirol). The valley is renowned for its stunning alpine landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. It is a popular destination for both winter and summer tourism, offering a wide range of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and breathtaking scenery.
History
The history of Val Gardena dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement and agriculture found in the area for thousands of years. The valley was originally inhabited by the Ladin people, an ancient Alpine ethnic group with a distinct language and culture.

In the Middle Ages, Val Gardena became an important trade route, connecting the northern and southern regions of Europe. The inhabitants of the valley were skilled woodworkers and artisans, famous for their woodcarvings and sculptures. This artistic tradition continues to thrive in the region, and Val Gardena is still renowned for its craftsmanship.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, the valley saw significant growth in tourism, with visitors drawn to its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Today, Val Gardena remains a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.
Key features 
  • Skiing and Winter Sports: Val Gardena is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. It is part of the Dolomiti Superski area, one of the largest ski regions in the world, offering hundreds of kilometers of ski slopes, cross-country trails, and snowboarding opportunities.
  • Hiking and Trekking: In the summer months, the valley transforms into a haven for hikers and nature lovers. There are numerous well-marked hiking trails, from gentle walks to challenging mountain treks, all providing stunning views of the Dolomite peaks.
  • Mountain Biking: Val Gardena has an extensive network of mountain biking trails suitable for all levels of riders. Bikers can explore the scenic landscapes and enjoy thrilling descents.
  • Cultural Experiences: The valley has a rich cultural heritage, evident in its traditional Ladin architecture, customs, and cuisine. Visitors can explore local museums, churches, and participate in cultural events.
  • Woodcarving and Art: Val Gardena is famous for its woodcarving tradition, and visitors can witness artisans at work and purchase intricately crafted wooden sculptures as souvenirs.
  • Alpine Refuges: Throughout the valley, there are several alpine huts and refuges where visitors can rest, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the breathtaking panoramas.
  • Gardena Card: The Gardena Card is a tourist card that provides access to various cable cars, buses, and lifts in the valley, making it convenient for tourists to explore the area.
  • Val Gardena Active: The Val Gardena Active program offers guided tours and activities for visitors, including guided hikes, mountain bike excursions, and cultural events.
Val Gardena
Province: Bolzano

Region: ​Trentino Alto Adige South Tyrol

Maximum elevation: ​2,518 metres

Highlights: ​Santa Cristina in Val Gardena, Selva di Val Gardena

Fly to: ​Verona Airport - 2 hours 13 minutes (193 km)

Recommended accommodation: Hotel Laurin Small & Charming

Val  Gardena​​​​​​​​​​​  Gallery

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