5 Reasons to Visit Cortina d'Ampezzo

The Italian Dolomites, located just south of the main section of the Alps, are truly one of nature’s gems, offering breathtaking views, peaceful pastures and enchanting valleys to explore. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy nature at its best, while hiking, biking, skiing or climbing the beautiful terrain of the region. The area is also rich with culture and is home to a people who are as unique as the region in which they reside. One of the most popular Dolomite valleys to visit is Cortina d’Ampezzo, for a variety of reasons. These five in particular tend to top the list.

Natural Park
Natural beauty is by far one of the most popular reasons that people visit the Dolomites, whether it’s for outdoor sports, sight-seeing or simply communing with nature in its most pure element. Cortina’s Natural Park of the Ampezzo Dolomites is one of the best places in the entire region to experience nature. Established in 1990, the park encompasses more than 27,000 acres of unblemished land and is home to several local wildlife species. Visitors can explore the many paths and trails, and even stay in one of the 11 alpine huts (rifugi) located within the park.

Outdoor Activities
One of the best ways to experience what nature has to offer is by simply getting out into the open air and having fun. Outdoor enthusiasts delight in Cortina d’Ampezzo’s huge variety of year-round open air activities – so many, in fact, that it’s almost impossible to fit them all in. Winter months are perfect for snowboarding, snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating and the world-class skiing the area is famous for. When the weather is warmer, mountain biking, hiking and mountaineering abound amidst the rich terrain found in the Cortina valley. Regardless of your sport of choice, you’ll find it in Cortina d’Ampezzo. 

Night Life
What better way to relax and unwind after a long day of playing hard on the mountain than by enjoying a night out on the town? Cortina d’Ampezzo serves up plenty of exhilarating night life to those so inclined, from bars to clubs to late-night discos. There are several friendly establishments to choose from, most open year-round and many late into the night. Sip on a cocktail or two, meet some new people, or dance the night away. It’s a great way to experience the local atmosphere and have some fun.

Shopping
Cortina d’Ampezzo is home to a huge selection of world-class shopping, from designer clothing and fashion boutiques to cosmetics and fine jewelry. There is such an abundance of shops and stores in Cortina that it’s become one of the biggest attractions for visitors. And what better way to remember your trip to the Dolomites than by bringing home a treasure you purchased there? Whatever it is you are looking for, you’re sure to find it in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Vie Ferrate
Sometimes referred to as “iron paths,” this unique activity involves hiking or climbing on specific mountain routes which are equipped with various fixed cables, ladders and bridges. Traveling a via ferrata allows you to explore isolated and otherwise un-reachable areas. And in the Dolomites, this means experiencing unparalleled adventure and breathtaking views. Cortina is home to several vie ferrate options just waiting to be conquered. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

A trip to Dolomites is sure to provide visitors with enough adventure, enjoyment and memories to last a lifetime. Of the different valleys located there, Cortina d’Ampezzo offers everything the adventure traveler could need, whether it’s natural beauty, outdoor activities or exciting night life. It’s the perfect location to experience everything that the Dolomites have to offer.