Located in the heart of the Dolomites, Alta Badia is a dream destination for mountain lovers both in summer and in winter. With its breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage landscapes, a wide range of activities for all tastes, and a variety of accommodations, it is the ideal destination for any type of vacation, whether relaxing or adventurous.
In this guide we will take you through the different resorts in Alta Badia and show you the must-do activities, giving you all the information you need for your next mountain vacation.
Type of accommodation in Alta Badia
Whatever type of accommodation you prefer, Val Badia offers a wide range of options to suit every need and budget. From luxurious 5-star hotels to quaint B&Bs, each establishment will offer you a warm welcome and quality services, allowing you to fully enjoy the wonders of this fascinating valley.
Here are some of the accommodation options you can find in Alta Badia:
- Hotels: if you are looking for comfort and all-inclusive services, hotels are a good choice. You can choose between luxurious facilities and more affordable options, all ready to guarantee you a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
- Apartments: If you prefer privacy and independence, an apartment is the right choice. Discover for example the luxury apartment Ciasa Sciadù in San Cassiano. Here, you can enjoy the spaces as if you were at home, with no time constraints and total freedom.
- Agritourism: If you are looking for a more authentic experience and direct contact with nature, staying in an agritourism can be perfect. Here you can taste fresh local products, immerse yourself in rural life and enjoy a warm and genuine welcome.
- Residence: ideal for families or groups of friends, residences such as Ciasa Giardun combine the independence of apartments with typical hotel services such as a spa, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free stay.
- B&Bs: offer a warm and personalized welcome, often located in characteristic houses. Ideal for those looking for an intimate and authentic stay, with homemade breakfasts.
Tourist destinations in Val Badia
San Cassiano
San Cassiano is situated at an altitude of 1,537 meters above sea level, at the foot of the Lavarela and Conturines massifs. It is an enchanting alpine village, full of Ladin charm and hospitality. It is the only village in the valley with a pedestrian zone, famous for its excellent gastronomy with starred restaurants and for its high quality shops. One of the most prominent shops is our sports shop “Botëghes Lagazoi”. The surrounding peaks are rich in geological and historical interest, with the remains of the First World War around Monte Lagazuoi and the fascinating Bear Cave at the foot of the Conturines. San Cassiano is an ideal destination for lovers of nature, sports and relaxation. It offers numerous hiking trails, a summer bike park and direct access to the Dolomiti Superski ski slopes. With its irresistible charm and unique atmosphere, this little jewel of the Alps will enchant you in every season.
La Villa
Located at 1433 meters, in the heart of Alta Badia, La Villa is famous for hosting the Alpine Ski World Cup on the famous Gran Risa slope. Nestled between the Puez-Odle and Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Parks, it offers breathtaking scenery and unforgettable hikes. The historic center of La Villa is characterized by the Ciastel Colz Castle and the Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta, built in 1516, which are not only architectural gems but also witnesses of the rich history and culture of the place. The Villa is the perfect destination for those looking for a unique experience between sport, nature and culture.
Badia
Situated at 1324 meters above sea level at the foot of Santa Croce “La Crusc”, Badia is the first center of Alta Badia, a cultural and natural treasure where ancient Ladin traditions live on intact. Walking through the narrow streets of the village, you will be fascinated by the “viles“, characteristic rural groups with wood and stone facades that reflect the traditional architectural style of the area. Badia’s rich cultural heritage, as evidenced by the archaeological finds from the Bronze Age in Sotciastel, adds a layer of historical depth to this enchanting place. Don’t miss the Baroque Church of St. Leonhard and the Sanctuary of Santa Croce at 2045 meters, easily reached by cable car. Badia, like the other villages of the valley, is connected to the Sellaronda Dolomiti Superski area by lifts and slopes.
Corvara
Located at 1568 meters above sea level at the foot of Monte Sassongher, Corvara is known as the “cradle of tourism” in the valley. This charming village is known for its key position on the Sellaronda circuit, making it an ideal hub for winter sports and summer hiking. With a long tradition of hospitality, Corvara offers its visitors a warm and friendly welcome, a wide range of leisure activities, restaurants serving local dishes and shops selling authentic handicrafts. With its mix of adventure, culture and luxury, Corvara is a must for an unforgettable holiday in the Dolomites.
Colfosco
Located at 1645 meters above sea level, between the Sella Group and the Sassongher, Colfosco is the highest village in Val Badia, famous for its spectacular view of the Sella Group. Surrounded by luxuriant woods and gentle slopes, it offers a variety of activities for all tastes throughout the year. Colfosco’s atmosphere is particularly welcoming and peaceful, ideal for those looking for a relaxing vacation away from the hustle and bustle.
Close to the Puez-Odle Natural Park, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, this hamlet is an excellent starting point for unforgettable excursions in the heart of nature.
La Val
Situated at 1348 meters above sea level, this is the first village of the Val Badia, nestled in a quiet side valley, far from the hustle and bustle of the Sellaronda circuit. La Val is a charming village in the Dolomites with an authentic and peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by flowering meadows and woods, it is the ideal place for those who want to get in touch with nature. It is famous for its themed trails, such as the “Tru di Pra“, which offer panoramic walks through alpine meadows, perfect for hiking and Nordic walking. In winter it is transformed into a picturesque snowy landscape, ideal for snowshoeing. The village keeps its Ladin traditions alive, visible in its architecture and local festivals. La Val is the perfect starting point for a vacation to explore the Dolomites and enjoy the peace and quiet.
Activities and hikings in Alta Badia
Val Badia, in the heart of the Dolomites, is an enchanting destination that offers a wide range of activities for all tastes, perfect for discovering nature and local culture. Every village in the valley, in collaboration with the tourist offices, organizes weekly excursions to discover the local natural parks and traditions, with programs that vary according to the season. For up-to-date information and reservations, please contact the local tourist office.
Here are some suggestions:
Summer hikes
On the trail with a geologist: take part in an exploration guided by an expert geologist who will reveal the geological secrets of the Dolomites. Along the way you will discover rock formations, horizontal strata and the unique geometry of the landscape.
- Itinerary: Passo Gardena – panoramic path – Forceles – Colfosco
- Difficulty: medium
- Duration: about 2 hours
Cima Para dai Giai: Conquer Cima Para dai Giai to enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of the majestic Dolomites. This hike promises to be an unforgettable adventure in a spectacular natural setting.
- Itinerary: La Villa – Gardenaccia chairlift – Gardenacia refuge – Para dai Giai peak – Gardenacia refuge – La Villa
- Difficulty: medium/difficult
- Duration: about 5 hours
Healing herbs: a guided excursion to discover the healing, cosmetic and culinary properties of mountain herbs. Immerse yourself in nature and learn how to use local herbs for daily wellness.
- Itinerary: Badia – Oies – Rainé – Ütia L’Tamá hut
- Difficulty: easy
- Duration: about 1 hour
In the bear cave: undertake this challenging excursion to discover the Conturines Cave, the site of important paleontological finds, including the discovery of the bones of a new species of cave bear.
- Itinerary: Capanna Alpina – Col de Locia – Conturines Cave – Capanna Alpina
- Difficulty: challenging
- Duration: about 7 hours.
Activities
- Visit to the Ladin Museum: learn about the history, culture and traditions of the Ladin people.
- Visit to the ditches: Equipped with headlamps, you can explore the trenches of the First World War on the Lagazuoi. You will be able to discover the ancient positions and tunnels dug into the rock along an evocative historical path.
- Cycling on the Sellaronda: The world’s most popular cycling tour, both road and MTB, along the Dolomite passes and trails of Val Badia, Val Gardena, Val di Fassa and Arabba, offering unique, breathtaking views.
- Climbing: At the Boulder Center in Corvara, open all year round, you can train by climbing equipped walls of all levels.
- Vie ferrate: The valley offers several possibilities for technical hikers.
- Paragliding: Fly over the Dolomites and admire the landscape from above.
- Horseback riding: Enjoy a ride on horseback in the uncontaminated nature of Alta Badia.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Enjoy the slopes of the Dolomiti Superski ski area, with more than 700 km of slopes connected by modern lifts, suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
- Cross-country skiing: The valley offers numerous cross-country skiing trails, surrounded by enchanting and peaceful landscapes. It is a perfect way to enjoy the winter nature.
- Snowshoeing: For those who love walking in the snow, snowshoeing is a must.
- Ski touring: If you like to be in the middle of nature, away from the ski slopes, Val Badia offers spectacular routes.
- Golf: The Tranrüs Golf Course in Corvara offers spectacular views and a unique experience at 1700 meters above sea level.
- Hiking: The valley is surrounded by the natural parks of Fanes-Senes-Braies and Puez-Odle, with an infinite number of paths and refuges.
For families
- Ice skating: Enjoy moments of pure fun at the Corvara skating rink. This well-equipped area offers the opportunity to spend hours of fun with the family.
- Tobogganing: Alta Badia offers numerous toboggan runs where you can experience the thrill of sliding at full speed down safe and well maintained slopes, perfect for an exciting adventure for you and your children.
- Culture and tradition: The festivals in the valley are a great opportunity to immerse yourself in local Ladin traditions and enjoy moments of cultural sharing as a family (seasonal programs at altabadia.org).
- Relaxation and wellness: After a day of outdoor activities there is nothing better than to relax and rejuvenate. Val Badia offers excellent wellness facilities.
- Discovering the Ladin cuisine: if you want to taste genuine Ladin products, visit Delizius, our gourmet boutique in San Cassiano.
If you’re planning a vacation in Val Badia but don’t have the space to take your equipment with you, Botëghes Lagazoi offers a convenient bike, buggy and via ferrata equipment rental service. We offer direct delivery to your accommodation, freeing you from any stress. Moreover, if you need to buy or renew your children’s equipment, we invite you to visit our Lagazoi Kids shop in San Cassiano.
Alta Badia is waiting to give you an unforgettable holiday. See you in the Dolomites!
