Found at the foothills of the Dolomites, Ortisei is a truly epic setting for skiing adventures. Yet this a small village with warm, welcoming character. At over 1200m above sea level you’ll have some of the best pistes in Italy at your feet – not to mention mountain-top churches, a proud craft culture and friendly markets.
SKI
Whether you come for ski season or summertime hiking, Ortisei’s big draw are the mountains that cradle it. Take the ultra-modern ski lift north to the Rasciesa. Or venture south to the Alpe di Siusi. From Ortisei you can also take the gondola cableway to this region’s stunning alpine pastureland or explore the protected nature parks that form part of these mountain ranges.
LANDMARKS
A short but spectacular hike through the forest – on the ancient pilgrimage route – brings you to the Dolomite-backed Chiesa di San Giacomo. The original church dates back to the 12th century, but it was rebuilt following a lightning strike 300 years later. Most pause to soak up the view, but venture inside too – it houses some beautifully preserved frescoes. Or, if you don’t fancy the walk, visit Ortisei’s parish church and its beautifully carved pews. Every day the village bells ring out from its rust red, onion-domed tower.
CULTURE
If you’re in Ortisei in October, you could be here for Segra Sacun. This annual market follows the parish fair of San Giacomo and celebrates its food heritage and regional traditions. Residents come together to showcase local crafts, such as woodcarving. And, as is tradition, men buy a beautifully embellished pear for their sweethearts. In other seasons, you can still see examples of Ortisei’s woodcarving culture at the ART52 and Galaria Unika exhibitions, or at the workshops dotted around this area.
While this is ski country – and prime hiking territory – take time to meander around Ortisei town. Mainly pedestrianised, it’s perfect for pottering.
