Best Ski Holiday: Italy & the Dolomites

Arrive at the airport and a private driver will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in the charming ski town of Corvara.  Surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains, Corvara is nestled in the sunny Val Badia Valley of the Dolomite Mountains—a skiers’ paradise. This chic and beautiful ski resort literally buzzes with energy. Here, you’ll find many après-ski bars where you can enjoy fine wine or the town’s famous champagne cocktails. Similar to the Austrian culture, the local Dolomite culture of the Ladin people shines through in the hearty regional food. Corvara has well-known bakeries that specialize in homemade Italian cakes as well as plenty of exceptional restaurants with authentic Ladin cuisine. This hearty farmer’s cooking typical of the South Tyrol region is satisfying after a day out on the slopes in the cold mountain air.

Your base in Corvara gives you access to premier skiing in the Dolomite Mountains, and the site of many World Cup alpine skiing events. You will be skiing at Dolomite Superski, a ski resort that offers perfect conditions and expansive ski slopes. This ski resort in the Alta Badia area of the Dolomites is one of Europe’s top ski destinations and is equipped with the latest ultra-modern ski lifts. With a variety of runs from gentle beginners’ slopes to more intermediate and advanced hills, the Dolomite Superski Resort is ideal for skiers of all abilities.

Today you will start using your ski pass at the Dolomite Superski Resort. Your ski pass includes five days of skiing over a six-day period, allowing for one day of leisure. After your first day on the slopes, be sure to treat yourself to a soothing massage at one of the ski resort’s upscale spa facilities.

Discover the welcoming slopes and rugged terrain of this impressive mountain setting. With miles of well-groomed runs, Dolomite Superski is the largest ski terrain in the world. This unrivaled ski resort encompasses 1,220 kilometers of ski runs featuring 450 fast, comfortable lifts. Picture yourself skiing down hills of perfect powder snow under the bright alpine sunshine. It’s pure meditation!

In the Dolomites, nature is both stimulating and relaxing. Immerse yourself in the slopes and after a long day of skiing, take advantage of the local hospitality found in cozy lodges and exclusive hotels. Be sure to try the village’s “Stubes,” traditional Tyrolean bars; these are cozy, rustic pubs known for their friendly and lively atmosphere. At the legendary Hotel la Perla piano bar, there is always live music, excellent classic cocktails and often guests are dancing!

After a few days of skiing, you’ll be ready for some pampering. Your ski pass allows you to choose five ski days during a 6-day period. On your off day, you could visit the lovely villages in the Alta Badia area. Many of the sights are off-the-beaten tourist path, such as the chapel of Sante Croce. Nestled high in the mountains, this small church, built in 1484, is an important pilgrimage site because it has numerous, significant relics inside its altar. You can also use your leisure time to explore the gorgeous mountain setting.

In the afternoon, you could go for a hike or vigorous walk and experience the serenity of the snowy alpine setting. Stop into a welcoming chalet for a cup of hot chocolate. You’ll enjoy warming up by a cozy fireplace after being out in the crisp alpine air. Be sure to include a hearty meal for dinner. Choose from fine dining at a romantic mountain refuge or traditional cuisine at a rustic lodge. The hearty local food is perfect after an invigorating day of activity.

Continue exploring the ski slopes of Dolomites Superski resort. The resort is so extensive that you can ski different slopes every day without ever repeating the same runs. There are 12 different ski areas each with their own unique landscape and suited for various ski levels. With your ski pass, you will have the chance to explore the diverse terrain that covers the four valleys of Val Gardena, Val di Fassa, Alta Badia and Arabba. You can ski through all four valleys without even removing your skis! Take in the stunning panoramic views of the alpine peaks and valleys at every turn. The gorgeous setting is sure to inspire you. After your ski runs, warm up with an après-ski cocktail. For dinner, choose whatever restaurant that strikes your fancy. Corvara offers a great selection from acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurants to simple alpine lodges serving authentic farmer’s cooking.

Depart from the village of Corvara in the Dolomite Mountains with a private transfer to the airport. Alternatively, you could choose a trip-extension, such as spending a few days in Venice, Innsbruck or Munich.