ITALY

ALTA BADIA                                                                                     

Alta Badia is one of the best places to ski in the Dolomites, it has gentle slopes accessible from several villages and is a great base for exploring the Sella Ronda. Alta Badia is a ski resort known for its breath taking scenery, gourmet cuisine, and extensive ski area. Located in South Tyrol, this resort is part of the Dolomiti Superski area, the world largest interconnected ski area, with over 1,200 kilometers of slopes. The villages of Corvara, Colfosco, La Villa, San Cassiano, Badia, and Pedraces make up Altia Badia, each offering a unique charm. Here is a detailed guide covering everything you need to know about Alta Badia from Ski area and passes, accommodation, where to eat, apres-ski and how to get here.

Plan your Ski Adventure

Booking a ski trip involves a range of reliable resources to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. I have listed below our favourite companies we use when we plan our ski holiday.

Ski World– They have been taking customers to the best ski resorts in Europe, the US and Canada, for more than 36 years.

Skyscanner– it’s our go to for finding the best flights, we usually start here and usually finish here.

Booking.com– for accommodation, we rely on booking.com for its extensive options and user reviews.

Train Travel– to European ski resorts is convenient and scenic, popular trips include Glacier express to Zermat, the Eurostar from London to the French Alps. We find “Omio or Trainline” are the best sites for booking trains in Europe.

Car Hire – we usually hire a car it offers us flexibility and convenience, allowing easy access to most resorts. Companies like “Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com’ provide reliable options with winter equipment.

Travel insurance– Don’t ski without it. If you get hurt on the mountain it could cost, you a small fortune if you’re not insured. We used “Safety Wing” when my wife broke her ankle a few years ago in Wengen they were terrific.

Ski Equipment – Bring your own ski gear, its usually cheaper and much better than renting, it ensures you have a perfect fit. Owning also saves time and money in the long run. Equipment like “Skis’, ‘Pants and Jackets,’ Gloves, ski -helmets and Thermal underwear” can all be bought online. You can purchase everything you need from Berg’s Ski and Snowboard (USA) or Snow and Rock (UK).

For specific resort information- we turn to the resort website, which often provides details on lift passes, equipment rentals, ski school bookings. These resources together make planning our ski trips a lot easier.                                                                 

Ski Pass and Terrain

Ski Area highlights

Altia Badia Provides access to a vast and varied ski terrain suitable for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers.

• Total Slopes in Altia Badia:

130 kilometers of local ski runs

       Difficulty Levels:

• Beginner: 70%
• Intermediate: 25%
• Advanced: 5%

• Dolomiti Superski Access: Skiers can explore over 1,200 kilometers of interconnected slopes.

• Sella Rondo Circuit: Connected to Alta Badia is the famous Sella Ronda, the Sella Ronda is a ski tour that circles Sella Massif (A huge Limestone formation) and dips in and out of several different resorts, Alta Badia, Arabba, Fassa, and Val Gardena. The whole route is about 40 kilometers, and completely on-piste so you don’t need a guide. Generally, you want to allow around 6 hours to take it at a leisurely pace, including a relaxing stop for lunch.

• Famous Runs

Gran Risa: A legendary world cup slope in la villa.

Lagazuoi-Armentarola: Known for its stunning views and unique horse-drawn rope tow at the end.

   Don’t forget your GOPRO or your INSTA360 for all those action shots of family and friends.                                                           

   Ski Pass Options

1. Alta Badia Ski Pass: covers the local ski area

• Dolomiti Superski Pass allows access to all 12 Dolomiti Superski regions.

• Beginner Pass: ideal for those staying on nursery slopes.

 Passes are available online or at resort offices, with discounts for families, seniors, and multi-day purchases.

Wear a SKI HELMET, especially if you’re a beginner or in the snow parks and remember pack your SKI GOGGLES for your trip.

*Handy Tip*

Accommodation

Luxury Hotel,

1. Rosa Alpina (San Cassiano): known for its elegant décor and Michelin-starred restaurant.
2. Hotel La Perla (Corvara): A five-star offering exceptional service, gourmet dining, and a luxurious spa.
3. Ciasa Salares (San Cassiano): combines modern comfort with a rich alpine ambience.

Mid-Range

1. Hotel Gran Risa (La Villa): Offers excellent value with direct access to the Gran Risa slope.
2. Hotel Col Alto (Corvara): A family-friendly option with cozy rooms and wellness facilities.
3. Residence vallon (Corvara): Self-catering apartments ideal for families or groups.

Budget-friendly

1. Garni Raetia ( Corvara): a charming B&B with affordable rates.
2. Hotel Rezia (Badia): A traditionalalpine guesthouse with simple yet comfortable rooms.
3. Hostels and Apartments: Local residents often rent out rooms or apartments for budget-conscious travelers.

I always carry a DAY BACKPACK when skiing as well as a WATER BOTTLE, it keeps me hydrated all day long on the slopes.

Where to Eat.

Alta Badia is renowned for its exceptional food, blending Italian, Austrian, and Ladin influences. From Michelin-starred restaurants to rustic mountains huts, there’s something for everyone.

Mountain Restaurants

1. Rifugio Utia de Bioch: Known for its breathtaking views and hearty alpine dishes.
2. Rifugio Lagazuoi: Offers stunning panoramas and a selection of local specialities.
3. Rifugio Jimmy (Colfosco): A cozy hut serving traditional South Tyrolean cuisine.

Fine Dining

1. St. Hubertus (San Cassiano): A three-Michelin-starred restaurant, specializing in sustainable cuisine.
2. Ristorante La Sirola (San Cassiano): combines innovative cooking with traditional flavors.
3. La Stua de Michil ( Corvara): A Michelin-starred restaurant known for its elegent ladin dishes.

Casual Dining

1. L’Murin (Corvara): A lively spot for apres-ski drinks with great music and atmosphere
2. Pizzeria Fornella (Colfosco): A relaxed spot serving a variety of Italian favorites.
3. Taverna Posta Zirm ( Corvara): Known for its welcoming atmosphere and local specialities.

Apres-Ski Bars                                                                          

1. L’Murrin ( Corvara): A lively spot for apres-ski drinks with great music and atmosphere.
2. La Baita ( Colfosco); offers a mix traditional and modern vibes.
3. Nagler Bar (la Villa): A cozy bar perfect for winding down after a day on the slopes.

 Getting to Alta Badia

Alta Badia is well-connected, making it accessible by air, train, or car.

By Plane

The nearest airports are:

1. Bolzano Airport: Approx. 100 Kilometers (2 hours)
2. Innsbruck airport: Approx. 130 kilometres (2.5 hours)
3. Venice Marco Polo Airport: Approx. 180 kilometers (3.5 hours)
4. Verona Airport: Approx. 200 kilometers (4 hours)

SHUTTLE services, PRIVATE transfers, and CAR RENTAL are available from these airports.

Compare and BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS HERE.

By Train

The nearest major train stations are:

1. Brunico (Bruneck): 40 kilometers away.

        2    Bressanone (Brixen): 70 kilometers away

From these stations, buses or private transfers take you to Alta Badia.

You can BOOK YOUR TRAIN HERE.

By Car

Alta Badia is easily accessible via well-maintained roads.

• From the A22 Brenner Motorway, take the exit for Bressanone and follow signs to Alta Badia.
• Parking is available in all villages, with many accommodations offering private facilities.

For more flexibility and convenience, compare these car rentals. Discover Cars or RENTALCARS.Com

Transfers by Ski Lifts

Getting to Italy’s best ski resorts couldn’t be easier than with Ski-Lifts, offering both airport and trin transfers. Private transfers are a popular choice, as your not sharing with others or waiting at the airport as your driver will be waiting for you on arrival.

By Bus

Regional buses connect Alta Badia to nearby towns and train stations. The SUDTIROL TRANSFER service offers convenient connections from major transport hubs.

Resort Activities.                                                                 

Alta Badia offers plenty of non-skiing activities for those seeking variety:

1. Snowshoeing: Explore serene trails through the Dolomite
2. Sledding: Family-friendly fun on well-maintained tracks.
3. Wellness Spas: Many hotels feature luxurious wellness facilities.
4. Helicopter Tours: Soar over the Dolomites for unparalleled views.
5. Indoor Pool (La Villa)
6. Winter Horse Riding

*Handy Tip*

Make sure you have TRAVEL INSURANCE before hitting the slopes.

Alta Badia is a jewel of the Dolomites, offering world-class skiing, fabulous food and wine, an authentic alpine experience. Whether you’re a seasoned skier, a foodie, or simply seeking a picturesque mountain escape, Alta Badia offers an unforgettable holiday experience.

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