Marmolada
Canazei, Trento, 38032
The highest range in the UNESCO-listed Dolomite Mountains that straddle the border between Italy and Austria, Marmolada has five peaks topping 9,000 feet. Outdoor and skiing enthusiasts flock to these slopes, famous for their excellent pistes in winter, spectacular trails in summer, and dazzling alpine scenery all year round.
The basics
Marmolada forms part of the Dolomiti Superski area, with 750 miles (1,200 km) of groomed pistes, and is a popular destination for ski tours from the chic alpine resort town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as the “Queen of the Dolomites” for its tony atmosphere. Take on the range’s highest peak of Punta Penia, or the Ghiacciaio della Marmolada on the northern slopes of the range, the only sizeable glacier in the Dolomites. Many ski tours stop for a meal at a rifugio, or mountain lodge, featuring traditional cuisine. Marmolada and the Dolomites formed the natural barrier that divided Italy from the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and was the location of intense military action during World War I. History buffs can join a ski tour that includes visits to important battle sites, and a walk through The Museum of the Great War in Serauta, the highest museum in Europe.
Non-skiers can instead join a multi-day tour of the Dolomites from Milan to take in the glorious views over the jagged, snow-capped summits and explore its scenic hiking and walking trails in the summer. Opt for a tour including transportation to enjoy the panoramic alpine drives without the stress of having to navigate the winding mountain roads.
Things to know before you go
*Ski tours require an intermediate level of skill on the slopes, and you must wear appropriate skiing attire and provide your own equipment. *Trails on Marmolada range from easy to challenging. If hiking, wear suitable clothing and footwear and bring water. *Marmolada is home to a number of mountain lodges that serve drinks, snacks, and meals. *Cable cars transport travelers up to the trailheads, ski slopes, and lodges year-round.
How to get there
Most visitors depart from Milan or Venice for a day trip or a longer stay in this range of the Dolomites. The nearest airports are in Venice or Treviso, and you can drive or take the airport shuttle directly to the ski resorts in winter. Otherwise, take the train from Milan or Venice to Belluno, and then the bus to Cortina d’Ampezzo.
When to get there
Marmolada is spectacular year-round. In winter, the peaks offer skiing or hiking the winter trails. In summer, you can explore the trails, take scenic drives through the countryside, and visit the charming alpine villages.
The Dolomiti Superski Area
One of the most popular ski areas in the Dolomites, Dolomiti Superski offers pistes for every skill level. Bellunese is the longest run at 7.5 mile, and heads down to Malga Ciapela in the Pettorina valley; this resort is the starting point for the legendary Sellaronda ski area through the valleys of Arabba, Fassa, Gardena and Badia. From Malga Ciapela a cable car goes up to the peak of From Malga Ciapela a cable car goes up to the peak of Punta Rocca at (10,856 ft) for endless views that stretch to all the way to Venice on clear days.
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