Cortina d'Ampezzo and Passo Giau for mountain holidays

Cortina d'Ampezzo is one of the most famous mountain resorts in Italy and one of the most beloved destinations in the UNESCO Dolomites. Elegant, panoramic and rich in traditions, Cortina combines the charm of an ancient Alpine village with an extraordinary offer of sports, nature, culture and events throughout the year.

Known as the Queen of the Dolomites, Cortina boasts a long history linked to major international sporting events: after hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics, it returned to the world stage by hosting, together with Milan and other Alpine locations, the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. This important event has once again confirmed Cortina's role as one of the world capitals of winter sports.

Today the resort continues to attract skiers, hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, photography lovers and travelers seeking spectacular landscapes. What makes Cortina truly unique is above all its extraordinary natural setting: the Ampezzo basin is surrounded by some of the most iconic peaks of the Dolomites, including the Tofane, Monte Cristallo, Faloria, the Cinque Torri, Sorapis, Becco del Mezzodì and Croda da Lago.

Cortina d'Ampezzo in winter: skiing and snow sports

In winter Cortina is one of the most prestigious ski destinations in the Alps. Its ski areas – Tofana, Faloria-Cristallo, Lagazuoi-Cinque Torri – are part of the Dolomiti Superski region and offer scenic slopes with views of the most spectacular Dolomites mountains.

Among the most beautiful skiing experiences are the Super 8 Skitour, a scenic route between Cinque Torri and Lagazuoi, and the Great War Circuit, a route that combines sport and history by crossing places symbolic of the First World War.

Cortina is also perfect for those who want to enjoy the snow without skiing: snowshoeing in the woods, scenic walks, sledding, ice skating, husky excursions and outdoor activities make the Ampezzo winter full of experiences.

For cross-country skiing enthusiasts, the Fiames Sport Nordic Center offers routes immersed in nature with unforgettable views.

Cortina d'Ampezzo in summer: trekking, lakes and adventures in the Dolomites

During the warm season Cortina becomes a true paradise for mountain lovers.

The network of trails allows you to discover some of the most beautiful corners of the Dolomites, with scenic routes, historic via ferratas, mountain bike trails and trail running paths.

Among the most famous excursions is the one to Lago di Sorapis, one of the most photographed places in the Dolomites thanks to its turquoise waters. Other natural gems to visit are Lago di Limides and Lago Ghedina, immersed in Alpine scenery of great charm.

Cycling and motorcycle enthusiasts can reach Passo Giau, one of the most spectacular Dolomite passes, also famous for the passage of the Giro d'Italia and a starting point for excursions to Croda da Lago.

Cortina between nature and history: places of the Great War

The mountains around Cortina hold important testimonies of the First World War.

The Great War Open-Air Museums allow you to explore trenches, tunnels and military positions among landscapes of extraordinary beauty. Among the most significant places are Lagazuoi, Cinque Torri, Sasso di Stria and Forte Tre Sassi, a unique historical route in the Dolomites.

Events and appointments in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Cortina is a lively resort all year round thanks to a calendar of events that combines sport, culture and lifestyle.

Among the best-known events are the Women's Alpine Skiing World Cup, an international competition that attracts enthusiasts from all over the world, the Cortina Fashion Weekend, dedicated to fashion and Alpine style, and A Mountain of Books, an important literary festival with authors and protagonists of contemporary culture.

Between sport, nature and food and wine, the Delicious Festival Dolomiti also stands out, while the Granfondo Dobbiaco-Cortina represents one of the historic appointments in cross-country skiing.

During the Christmas period the center of Cortina transforms with the traditional Christmas Market along Corso Italia, with lights, crafts and Alpine atmosphere.

The flavors of Ampezzo cuisine

The cuisine of Cortina d'Ampezzo tells the meeting of Italian tradition and Tyrolean culture. Among the typical dishes we find casunziei, canederli, speck, polenta and barley soups.

Don't miss traditional desserts such as strudel, apple fritters, fartaia, carafoi and brazorà, accompanied by mountain schnapps and liqueurs.