Val Gardena

A valley that folds into the pristine beauty of World Heritage Site the Dolomites in South Tyrol, Val Gardena is made up of three villages, Selva Val Gardena, Ortisei and Santa Cristina each encapsulating the pure lifestyle of mountain bliss, set to a palette of wholesome tradition, outdoor living, foodie customs and general happiness and wellbeing.

Under the watchful eye of the domineering peaks of the Dolomites, Val Gardena has been on the radar since pre-historic times as seen in archaeological findings from Plan de Frea where primitive tools discovered were dated back to primeval times, an incredible 6,000 years before Christ. In Ortisei, bronze implements, jewellery and swords also dated the popular spot to 400 years before Christ. During medieval years, Val Gardena was a busy centre of ruthless Middle-Aged battles over territory, and it was during this period that the region became known for woodcarving – you can see some historical and modern-day examples of expert carvers work in the church of San Giacomo in Ortisei, a village known in particular forbeautifully sculpted wooden nativity scenes. The Gardena Museum also sheds light on geological research and archaeological discoveries in this ancient region and the ruinous castles in Selva Val Gardena and Ortisei add to the varied timeline of history.

Perhaps because of this, culture runs deep here, a place where traditional Ladin, Italian and German are all spoken and the ever-present mountains are the lifeblood of the residents of Val Gardena. In summer, pathways into the peaks are frequented by shepherds, walkers, farmers and cyclists and the mountains prove the backdrop to many a foodie encounter. The dairy cows who provide for the cheesemakers, the wooden cabins that showcase South Tyrolean produce from meats to dumplings and the wild meadows that are an essential part of the day from herbal teas to medicinal remedies. 

In winter, snow changes the scene and this is when the ski region of Alpe di Siusi comes to life, forming a network that is one of the biggest ski areas in the Dolomites – the DolomitiSuperski, plus epic mountain panoramas and those same wooden cabins opening for business in the snow too, offering hot stews, dumplings, hot chocolate or perhaps  blueberry shot before you whizz off again. Come sun or snow, Val Gardena and its ancient history continues to be a place we just love to be.