Experience winter: Cross-country skiing in the Dolomites in South Tyrol

The Dolomite mountain range is world-famous for good reason: it is the breathtaking beauty of the mountains that attracts countless visitors each year. The unique scenery of the Dolomites is like a giant natural playground — you can go hiking, cycling, or in winter experience the snowy landscape in its most enchanting form. In winter, the mountain ranges turn into a fairytale of snow. Naturally, this makes it the perfect season for all winter sports enthusiasts! The Dolomites are the ideal place to spend a winter holiday in the mountains. The 12 ski areas of the Dolomites offer skiers, snowboarders and cross-country skiers plenty of variety and fun across a total of 1200 kilometers of slopes.

Cross-country skiing holiday in South Tyrol: Skiing on the most beautiful trails of the Dolomites

In addition to numerous ski and snowboard slopes, the Dolomites are a paradise for cross-country skiers. This endurance sport can be enjoyed on around 900 kilometers of perfectly prepared trails. The Dolomiti NordicSki network offers the largest cross-country skiing trail network in Europe. Passing picturesque mountain peaks, crossing endless snowy fields and always having the sun at your back — simply a dream. Another 90 km of trails belong to the Venosta Nordic network, where six cross-country skiing areas in some of the most beautiful spots in South Tyrol have joined forces.

Wonderful trails are located right in the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site in South Tyrol. The snow-rich, well-prepared trails in South Tyrol are open every year from December and can be used depending on weather conditions.

The best cross-country skiing regions in the South Tyrolean Dolomites

The South Tyrolean Dolomites offer several promising regions for all cross-country skiing enthusiasts. The extensive and diverse network of trails stretches through South Tyrol’s well-known holiday regions as well as cozy side valleys such as the Antholz Valley. Whether you prefer the classic style, freestyle, or skating — you will find what you are looking for here!

For those who want to learn cross-country skiing or explore nature with professional guidance, there are opportunities to hire a trainer. This way, during your holiday you can refine your technique, take part in cross-country skiing courses, or try more challenging trails for the first time.

Alta Badia

The Alta Badia region offers cross-country skiers a 25-kilometer trail that leads across snowy meadows and dreamy forests. Skiing here can be done in the classic style, but the track is also perfectly suitable for skating. In total, winter sports enthusiasts have seven routes plus a green-marked practice trail at their disposal. The levels of difficulty vary, so there are routes suitable for beginners as well as professionals. The trails named Scotoni, Settsass, Störes, and Conturines are used as race and training tracks.

Seiser Alm

Cross-country skiing on the largest alpine plateau in Europe — that’s possible in the Seiser Alm region. The trails run through a wintry, gently rolling landscape and pass directly by fascinating Dolomite rock formations. 80 kilometers of trails with varying levels of difficulty are waiting to be conquered by beginners and experienced skiers alike. All tracks are also prepared for skating.

A real highlight: at the beginning of the year, the Moonlight Classic race takes place here under the full moon. Another tip is the 7.5-kilometer trail connection to the adjacent Val Gardena, another very popular cross-country skiing area.

3 Zinnen Dolomites

One of South Tyrol’s top cross-country skiing regions is the 3 Zinnen Dolomites. With 200 kilometers of groomed trails, it is an Eldorado for cross-country skiing fans. The picturesque Dolomite valleys invite visitors to romantic ski tours, while the World Cup trails set high demands for ambitious athletes. Those who want to admire the Three Peaks during their tour can ski directly under these silent giants in the tranquil Fischlein Valley.

Antholz Valley

In Antholz, a total of 14 trails of varying difficulty await. A special feature is that some of the trails lead across the frozen Lake Antholz. Another advantage is that this side valley is less touristy, allowing for more peace while enjoying winter sports. Biathlon fans will be especially delighted: Antholz is home to South Tyrol’s biathlon center, where cross-country skiing courses are also offered.

Val Gardena

The Val Gardena offers around 55 kilometers of trails and impresses above all with its stunning mountain scenery. The beautifully maintained tracks run between the Dolomite peaks. It’s wonderful that Nordic skiers of all ability levels can practice here. Enjoying the crisp mountain air and gliding over snowy meadows with sparkling snow — a true winter dream.

Kronplatz

One real highlight among South Tyrol’s cross-country skiing areas is Kronplatz. This holiday region is located in the Puster Valley, at the edge of the Dolomites. Here you can explore more than 100 kilometers of trails that run right along the beautiful mountain landscape. For beginners, there are easy, relaxing trails, while those who want more of a challenge can test themselves on the multi-lane and physically demanding routes.

Cross-country skiing in South Tyrol - a unique experience for winter sports enthusiasts

Those who have already lost their heart to winter sports will also lose it to the Dolomites after their holiday in South Tyrol. The gentle giants do not promise too much and inspire cross-country skiers time and again. Whether ambitious or beginner, whether relaxed cross-country skier or action seeker - cross-country skiing in the South Tyrolean Dolomites is simply a pleasure!