Nestled within the UNESCO-listed Dolomites in South Tyrol, Val Gardena offers mountain magic by the bucketload. It’s a place where you can whizz down World Cup runs, tuck into alpine delights and sip a spritz as the peaks turn pink. And with handy Jet2.com ski flights to the nearby airports of Innsbruck and Verona, plus the option to add 22kg hold baggage and ski carriage*, snow much fun awaits. 

The resort 

Val Gardena is made up of three main villages – Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena, each boasting its own distinct personality. Ortisei is home to colourful Tyrolean architecture and a pedestrian zone lined with boutiques and cafés. Santa Cristina offers quick access to the lifts and a peaceful atmosphere, while Selva di Val Gardena’s where you’ll find slopeside hotels and direct connections to the famous Sella Ronda circuit. This 40km-loop around the Sella Massif lets you ski through multiple valleys (and even provinces) in one day. Wherever you stay, you can expect high-end hospitality, efficient lift systems and that distinctive mix of Austrian-meets-Italian charm. Non-skier? Trade ski poles for hiking boots and discover the winter walking trails. You could also opt for a day at one of the many spas. Mar Dolomit has indoor and outdoor pools, plus a sprawling sauna zone.  

The slopes 

If clocking up the kilometres is high on your agenda, then you’re in luck — Val Gardena is part of the Dolomiti Superski area, one of the world’s largest ski networks. That means you’ll have access to over 1200km of runs! If you’re taking your first tentative turns, the gentle slopes near Ortisei and Monte Pana are great places to learn. And there’s plenty of superb ski schools, which will help you go from snowplough to parallel before you can say “après”. Already mastered the basics? Don’t miss the sweeping reds from Ciampinoi and Seceda. And for the pros among you, the legendary Saslong World Cup downhill run is a must-do. The resort’s mix of open bowls and terrain parks makes it one of the best snowboard destinations in Italy too. The Seiser Alm Snowpark’s even hosted FIS Slopestyle World Cup events, so you’re in good hands.  

The après 

The après-ski scene here strikes the perfect balance between lively and laidback. On the mountain, Baita Daniel, Comici Hut and Sofien Hütte serve up sun-drenched terraces, alpine tunes and glasses of crisp Südtirol white wine. Down in the villages, it’s all about cosy lounges and cocktails by candlelight. In Selva, Luislkeller is a classic for live music and dancing, while over in Ortisei, Café Demetz and Cascade Lounge are top picks. And of course, no day is complete without a dolce (sweet) – try apple strudel, Kaiserschmarrn (fluffy shredded pancakes) or a tasty gelato. 

*Charges apply.