Holiday in Val Gardena

While I was vacationing in Selva Val Gardena, I was able to try the famous Sella Ronda, the most popular ski circuit of the Alps: a beautiful and scenic 40-km route, including a 26-km-long course that has to beskied, going around 4 passes- Pordoi, Sella, Gardena and Campolongo- the Sella Group and through the valleys of Fassa (Trentino), Gardena and Badia (Alto Adige) and Arabba (Veneto).

Lovely intermediate-advanced runs and all the sport you can ask for. But I’m sure you would rather know what I did when I was not skiing, so here is a small guide to where to stop for a quick lunch, for some music or even if it’s just for the best slice of cake you ever had. Put your skis on and go!

1.. Piz Saetur, in Plan de Gralba Selva, Val Gardena

An elegant and typical wooden mountain hut. Have a taste of their terrific meat-based dishes. On Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, the Gogo girls dance on the outdoor counter table, with music at full volume and delicious cocktails. If you’re not too tired, don’t miss it!

2. Rifugio Comici in Plan de Gralba, Selva di Val Gardena

Same area but super-chic atmosphere. Frequented by the rich and famous, the hut is open at dinnertime too. Delicious fish and seafood coming fresh from the Adriatic. The ideal place for a glass of champagne with oysters, very James Bond-style.

3. Rifugio Burz, Arabba

Recently renovated, it’s a futuristic-style chalet with sophisticated and charming details. Very good local cuisine. Good pizza.

4. Rifugio Piz Boè, in Corvara

A glass box with breathtaking view seen from the outside. Once inside, you’ll be treated to gourmetdishes that combine tradition and creativity. My advice: just take your time and enjoy it…it’s a truly special place.

5. Rifugio Col Alt in Corvara
Here is where Italy’s first ski-lift facility was built in 1947. We stopped for lunch, but it’s definitely worth a try at dinner: its mix of traditional and creative cuisine,  taste the sweet “SETTEVELI” Cristian Beduschi World Pastry Champion.

6. Rifugio Col Pradat in Colfosco

If you’re planning to come here on a sunny day, make sure you do what I did and book the Nido dell’Aquila (The Eagle’s Nest), the farthest end of the hut’s beautiful terrace. There are no eagles, but you can get a unique view of the mountains and town of Colfosco.