Val Gardena (Selva)

Val Gardena / Selva is one of the most complete ski areas in the world and the best way into the Sellaronda, the loop that crosses four Dolomites passes. With 175 km of local runs, several parks and funslopes, and access to 1,200 km of runs with the Dolomiti Superski lift ticket, it’s a world-class destination for every kind of snowboarder.

Why Go Snowboarding

Selva sits right on the Sellaronda loop, so you can jump straight onto either the orange (clockwise) or the green (counterclockwise) route. For snowboarders the area stands out on three fronts: freeride among the Dolomites’ rock formations, freestyle in several parks, and carving on top-quality groomers. Alpe di Siusi Snowpark, on the same lift ticket, is a 1.5 km park line with around 40 features. The local freeride club regularly runs events and coaching sessions.

Terrain & Slopes

The 175 km of local runs across Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi offer huge variety: Selva’s runs are mostly reds and blacks with serious pitch, while Alpe di Siusi (1,227–2,200 m) has wide plateaus with broad, scenic cruisers. Alpe di Siusi, home of the Seiser Alm Snowpark, has its own page: Alpe di Siusi. The Saslong, a World Cup run, is open to the public for most of the winter (except on race days) and is one of the most rewarding tests for an advanced rider. The Dantercepies sector has off-piste with different aspects.

Snowpark

Val Gardena has some of the best freestyle in Italy. At Piz Sella, served by the Gran Paradiso 8-seater and Comici I chairlifts, you’ll find Snowpark Sassolungo and Funpark Sassolungo: a big kicker with several jumps, a boardercross, and a spiral snow tunnel, for beginners, families, and boardercross riders. There’s also Boardercross Sotsaslong, Funslope Selva (Risaccia, Dantercepies), and the Kids Fun Park at Monte Pana. The same lift ticket gets you to Alpe di Siusi Snowpark at the Laurin chairlift: a 1.5 km park line with around 40 features on Easy Family, Medium, Hard, and Pro lines.

Getting There

Car: A22 highway, Chiusa/Klausen exit, then SS242 to Ortisei/Selva. Train: Chiusa station (16 km), then SAD bus. Bolzano is the alternative, with more connections. Bus: SAD buses from Bolzano about every hour and from Bressanone; there are also seasonal buses from Verona airport.

Tips

The best time is January to March. The Dolomiti Superski ticket is worth the extra cost if you’re staying at least 4–5 days; for shorter trips, the local Val Gardena/Alpe di Siusi ticket is better value. Weekends are packed: ride on weekdays if you can. Selva and Santa Cristina are the handiest villages for the lifts; Ortisei is more central, but you’ll need the shuttle.