Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d’Ampezzo, often called the Queen of the Dolomites, is Italy’s most stylish ski resort. Set at 1,224 m in the Veneto region, it offers around 120 km of local slopes and access to the vast Dolomiti Superski area — a staggering 1,200 km of pistes across 12 resorts, all on one pass.

Host of the 1956 Winter Olympics and future co-host of the 2026 Milano–Cortina Games, Cortina combines dramatic Dolomite scenery, historic racing heritage, and Italian glamour. The town is as famous for its shopping, fine dining, and nightlife as it is for skiing.

This is the resort of choice for skiers who want style, culture, and atmosphere alongside their mountain mileage.

Skiing & Snowboarding

The Cortina ski area is divided into three main sectors, linked by ski bus and included on the Dolomiti Superski pass:

• Tofane: Cortina’s largest area (47 km), with varied runs including the famous Olympia delle Tofane, used for World Cup downhill races. Excellent for intermediates, with some challenging steeps for experts.

• Faloria–Cristallo: Wide, sunny runs ideal for intermediates and beginners, with a snowpark for freestylers.

• Lagazuoi–Cinque Torri: Known for spectacular scenery, long descents, and the famous Armentarola run, one of the most beautiful in the Alps.

• Beginners: Nursery slopes at Socrepes are excellent for learners, with gentle progressions.

• Intermediates: Long, scenic blues and reds dominate, perfect for cruising while admiring Dolomite vistas.

• Experts: The Tofane blacks and the World Cup Olympia delle Tofane are must-ski runs. Off-piste routes with a guide include hidden valleys and powder bowls.

• Freestylers: The Faloria Snowpark is one of the best in the Dolomites, with lines for all levels.

Snow reliability is bolstered by extensive snowmaking, while the Dolomiti Superski network opens up endless options if conditions are variable.

Ski Lift Passes

Cortina is part of Dolomiti Superski, the world’s largest linked ski pass.

• Adult: ~€74/day | ~€370 for 6 days
• Junior (8–15): ~50% reduction
• Under 8s: Free

Deals:

• Family discounts available.
• Local-only Cortina passes are also offered at a reduced rate.

Resort & Infrastructure

Cortina’s lift system has been steadily modernised ahead of the 2026 Olympics:

• New high-speed gondolas and chairs link the Tofane and Faloria sectors.
• Ski buses connect all three areas efficiently.
• Snowmaking ensures reliable coverage even in warmer Dolomite winters.

The town itself is well-connected and geared up for major events, blending sporting prestige with glamour.

Accommodation

Cortina is renowned for its stylish hotels, from historic grand properties to boutique spa retreats.

• Budget: Guesthouses and B&Bs on the edges of town.

• Mid-Range: Family-run 3★–4★ hotels such as Hotel Villa Argentina.

• Luxury: Iconic properties like Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina, and Faloria Mountain Spa Resort.

Browse via the official accommodation search.

Dining & Après

Cortina excels at dining, with everything from mountain rifugi to Michelin-starred restaurants. Rifugio Averau and Rifugio Lagazuoi combine scenery with superb food, while in town, Tivoli and Il Meloncino are standouts for fine dining.

Après-ski here is stylish and sociable. LP26 is a popular lounge-bar, while Enoteca Cortina offers wine-focused evenings. Nightlife tends to be more sophisticated than rowdy — cocktails, wine bars, and long dinners dominate.

Non-Skiing Activities

Cortina is as much about off-slope lifestyle as skiing:

• Shopping on the Corso Italia (designer boutiques, Italian fashion, and artisan crafts).
• Ice skating and curling at the Olympic Ice Stadium.
• Winter hiking and snowshoeing.
• Spa and wellness at luxury hotels.
• Excursions on the Great Dolomites Road for jaw-dropping scenery.

Village Character & Access

Cortina is a historic alpine town with a glamorous reputation. Surrounded by UNESCO-listed Dolomite peaks, it combines natural drama with Italian style — cobbled streets, chic cafés, and a strong après-culture.

How to get there from the UK:

• By air: Venice Marco Polo Airport (2 hrs) and Treviso Airport (2 hrs) are closest. Innsbruck (2.5 hrs) is also an option.
• By train: Rail to Calalzo di Cadore, then 1 hr bus/taxi to Cortina.
• By car: Around 12 hrs from Calais.

InTheSnow Verdict

Cortina d’Ampezzo is Italy’s most glamorous ski resort, blending Dolomite beauty, Olympic heritage, and Italian style. Its skiing may not match the mileage of Val d’Isère or Verbier, but the Dolomiti Superski pass opens endless possibilities, while the town’s dining, shopping, and culture set it apart.

For skiers who want mountain adventure with Italian elegance, Cortina d’Ampezzo is unrivalled.