Cortina d'Ampezzo — your perfect Alpine getaway

Discover Cortina d'Ampezzo — a unique ski resort surrounded by scenic nature, active leisure, and rich culture. If you are planning a trip to Italy, Cortina d'Ampezzo will be the jewel of your journey. Located in the heart of the Dolomite Alps, it offers an unforgettable experience, and in 2026, the city will host the Winter Olympic Games, making it an even more attractive destination.

Resort History

Cortina d'Ampezzo is a place with a rich history. The name “Ampezzo” comes from the Latin “Amplitium,” meaning “space” or “wide place.” The first settlements in this area appeared in prehistoric times. Throughout the Middle Ages, the territory changed hands, influenced by the Venetian Republic, the Austrian Empire, and Italy.

Tourism development began in the 19th century when climbers and nature lovers started visiting. By the early 20th century, the town had become a popular ski resort attracting aristocrats and bohemians. A landmark event was the 1956 Winter Olympics, which brought worldwide fame to the town and spurred further infrastructure development.

Nature and Natural Attractions

Cortina d'Ampezzo is surrounded by the majestic mountain ranges of the Dolomite Alps, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Among the highlights are the Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo)—a symbol of the Dolomites—and the Tofana massif.

Its proximity to the Dolomiti d'Ampezzo National Park preserves the region’s unique flora and fauna. The climate here is alpine, with cool summers and snowy winters. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and active travelers who want to enjoy fresh air and breathtaking landscapes. The following attractions below the Alps will amaze you.

1. Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Drei Zinnen / Three Peaks of Lavaredo) — famous Dolomite peaks. These three impressive summits rising above the plateau offer stunning panoramic views and are popular for hiking and climbing.
2. Tofana (Tofana) — a powerful mountain massif consisting of three main peaks: Tofana di Rozes, Tofana di Mezzo, and Tofana di Dentro. It features popular ski slopes in winter and exciting climbs in summer.
3. Cristallo (Cristallo) — one of the highest peaks in the Dolomites, known for its impressive glaciers and challenging climbing routes.
4. Sorapiss (Sorapiss) — this mountain range is famous for the extraordinary Lago di Sorapiss, a lake with milky turquoise water caused by mineral suspension.
5. Ampezzo Dolomites Natural Park (Parco Naturale delle Dolomiti d'Ampezzo) — a national park covering most of the area around Cortina d'Ampezzo. It is home to rare animal and plant species and offers pristine natural beauty.
6. Lago di Sorapiss (Lago di Sorapiss) — a lake of incredible milky-blue color situated at the foot of the Sorapiss massif, accessible by a scenic hiking trail.
7. Lago di Braies (Lago di Braies) — although located a bit farther from Cortina d'Ampezzo, it is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites with crystal-clear water surrounded by mountains.
8. Passo Giau (Passo Giau) — a high mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the Dolomites, perfect for stunning photos and enjoying alpine air.
9. Pian dei Loses (Pian dei Loses) — a vast plateau situated around 2000 meters above sea level, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Ideal for gentle hikes and relaxation.
10. Monte Faloria (Monte Faloria) — from this mountain, you get magnificent panoramic views of Cortina d'Ampezzo and surrounding peaks. You can reach the summit by cable car.
11. Cadore (Cadore) — the historic region around Cortina d'Ampezzo, known for picturesque valleys, lakes, and mountain villages.
12. Val d'Ansiei (Val d'Ansiei) — a valley through which the Ansiei River flows, featuring beautiful landscapes and plenty of hiking and cycling opportunities.
13. Cascate di Fanes (Fanes Waterfalls) — a series of waterfalls creating a scenic canyon, with thrilling walks along specially equipped trails and bridges.
14. Lago di Auronzo (Lago di Auronzo) — a lake near Cortina d'Ampezzo in the town of Auronzo di Cadore, where you can row boats, fish, or simply relax on the shore.
15. Croda da Lago Group (Croda da Lago) — a mountain massif known for its lake Federa (Lago Federa), famous for its mountain reflections.
16. Marmolada Massif (Marmolada) — the "Queen of the Dolomites" and the highest mountain in the range, crowned by a glacier, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
17. Cinque Torri (Cinque Torri) — the "Five Towers," a group of rock formations popular among climbers and hikers. Fierce fighting took place here during World War I, and remnants of trenches and fortifications remain.
18. Passo Falzarego (Passo Falzarego) — another high mountain pass with spectacular Dolomite views, also home to World War I military ruins.
19. Alpine Meadows — in spring and summer, the surroundings of Cortina d'Ampezzo transform into a colorful carpet of alpine flowers, perfect for hiking and picnics.
20. Flora and Fauna of Dolomiti d'Ampezzo Park — the park hosts various animal species, including chamois, roe deer, mountain goats, marmots, and golden eagles. Rare plants like edelweiss and mountain pine also thrive here.

Visiting these natural attractions will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and grandeur of the Dolomite Alps and make your stay in Cortina d'Ampezzo unforgettable.

Activities and Entertainment

In Cortina d'Ampezzo, there’s something for everyone. Various mountain tours are available, allowing you to explore the region’s history and culture.

Nightlife is equally vibrant: bars, restaurants, and clubs offer entertainment to suit all tastes. Throughout the year, the town hosts cultural events including concerts, exhibitions, and festivals. Don’t forget to book your hotel in Cortina d'Ampezzo in advance to ensure a comfortable stay.

Summer Sports

In summer, the town turns into a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts in the Alps. Mountaineering, trekking, and cycling routes of varying difficulty let you enjoy the Dolomites’ beauty and challenge yourself. Mountain hikes and excursions promise unforgettable experiences.

Winter Sports

In winter, Cortina d'Ampezzo is a world-class ski resort. Ski slopes of various difficulty levels, modern lifts, and developed infrastructure provide comfort for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Thrill-seekers can try ice climbing. Be sure to book your flights early to plan your trip to Cortina d'Ampezzo.

Mountain Walks

Mountain walks are a great way to enjoy Cortina’s picturesque landscapes. Popular trails like the path to Tre Cime di Lavaredo or the walk around Lake Sorapiss offer stunning mountain views. Organizing group trips will help you explore the peaks safely and comfortably. Remember to stay safe: wear comfortable shoes, bring enough water, and monitor weather forecasts.

Culture and Traditions

The culture and traditions of Cortina d'Ampezzo are unique and carefully preserved by locals. Festivals like the Festa di Santa Lucia and Carnival feature vibrant parades, folk celebrations, and traditional treats. Local customs and crafts, such as wood carving and leatherwork, are passed down through generations. Regional art is showcased in local museums and galleries.

Regional Gastronomy

The gastronomy of Cortina d'Ampezzo combines Italian and Alpine culinary traditions. Popular dishes to try include casunziei (beet-filled ravioli), canederli (bread and lard dumplings), and polenta (cornmeal porridge). Local restaurants offer a wide choice of dishes made with fresh regional ingredients.

How to Get to Cortina d'Ampezzo

You can reach Cortina d'Ampezzo in various ways. The nearest airports are in Venice and Innsbruck. From the airports, you can get to the town by bus or car. It’s also possible to travel by train to the Calalzo-Piave station, then take a bus from there. Transport routes are well developed, making planning your trip easy.

Best Hotels and Accommodation

Cortina d'Ampezzo offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Top hotels in Cortina d'Ampezzo provide high service levels and comfort. Besides hotels, you can find apartments, chalets, and budget options such as hostels and guesthouses.

Tips for Tourists

The best time to visit Cortina d'Ampezzo depends on your preferences. Winter attracts ski and snowboard lovers, while summer is perfect for active recreation and mountain walks. When planning your trip, consider seasonal advice and book accommodation and flights early. Remember mountain safety: wear comfortable shoes, carry enough water, and keep an eye on the weather forecast. Take advantage of the opportunity to find affordable hotels in Cortina d'Ampezzo to make your trip more budget-friendly.

Cortina d'Ampezzo is a unique destination where picturesque landscapes, rich history and culture, and a wide range of entertainment and activities come together. Whether you’re looking for relaxation and adventure or just peaceful mountain walks and excursions, this ski resort will leave you with unforgettable memories.