Cortina d’Ampezzo, known affectionately as the “Queen of the Dolomites”, is a gem in the heart of Italy’s Dolomite mountains. Sitting at an altitude of 1,224m, this world-class resort forms part of the extensive Dolomiti Superski area, providing access to 1,200km of skiable terrain. With its charming town, scenic beauty, and excellent ski facilities, Cortina d’Ampezzo provides a unique blend of traditional Italian culture and first-rate winter sports opportunities.
Cortina d’Ampezzo is perhaps best suited for intermediate skiers, but beginners and advanced skiers will also find a wealth of opportunities to enjoy.
Cortina d’Ampezzo Ski Area
Cortina d’Ampezzo’s ski area is spread across three main areas; the Tofane, Faloria – Cristallo – Mietres, and Cinque Torri, each offering a unique skiing experience. The ski area in Cortina d’Ampezzo comprises of 115 runs, spread over 140km of pisted terrain. These include 44 blue runs, 37 red runs, and 11 black runs. The remaining 23 are designated for beginners.
Beginner Skiing in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina d’Ampezzo offers a range of beginner-friendly slopes and ski schools to help new skiers find their feet. The Socrepes area on the Tofane side is a great place to start, with a selection of gentle, wide runs and a dedicated beginner area. Once you’re comfortable, you can progress to the slightly steeper blues of the Faloria area.
Intermediate Skiing in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Intermediate skiers will find a wealth of opportunities in the Cortina d’Ampezzo ski area. The Tofane area offers a variety of blue and red runs, with the long, sweeping Rumerlo-Fedo run being a particular highlight. The Cinque Torri area, a little further out but well worth the trip, offers a selection of scenic blue and red runs, while the Faloria area is home to some slightly steeper, more challenging reds. Remember to take the time to enjoy the stunning mountain views – they’re truly something special!
Advanced Skiing in Cortina d’Ampezzo
For advanced skiers, Cortina d’Ampezzo offers a selection of challenging black runs and plenty of off-piste opportunities. The Tofane area is home to the famous Canalone and Schuss runs, which offer steep, adrenaline-fuelled descents. The Forcella Staunies run in the Cristallo area is another must-try for advanced skiers. With a gradient of 68%, it’s considered one of the most challenging pistes in the Dolomites.
Off-Piste Skiing in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina d’Ampezzo is renowned for its off-piste skiing, with a wealth of options for experienced skiers seeking a challenge. The Tofane area offers several off-piste routes, including the Bus Tofana and the Vallon de Raola. The Cinque Torri area is another favourite among off-piste enthusiasts, offering a range of exciting descents. Remember, if you’re planning on going off-piste, it’s always a good idea to hire a local guide who can show you the best spots and ensure that you’re skiing safely.
Snow Parks in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Freestyle enthusiasts aren’t forgotten in Cortina d’Ampezzo. The resort is home to the Cortina Snowpark, located in the Tofane area, which offers a range of features for different abilities, including jumps, boxes and rails.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a beginner taking your first steps on the snow, an intermediate skier looking to explore a range of varied terrain, or an advanced skier seeking challenging descents and off-piste adventures, Cortina d’Ampezzo has something to offer. With its stunning mountain views, charming town and excellent ski facilities, it’s a resort that truly has it all.
