Hi,
I need help deciding on a town to stay for 2 nights in the Dolomites. I will be traveling with my husband, 2 college age girls and teen son. We love to hike in the winter (North Carolina) and kids enjoy skiing. We will be traveling from Milan on January 2nd to the Dolomite region and would love to find a picturesque town that is walkable with a Christmas market and hiking trails nearby. I have been researching that could be difficult to find a room or AIrBnb for only 2 nights. I have looked at Bolzano, Val Gardena, or Ortisei. I would love to travel by train from Milan but not opposed to renting a car. My dream would be a cute town at the base of a snow covered mountain that has been decked out for Christmas and has hiking trails or skiing nearby. We have never been to Italy or any European Christmas markets. Thank you so much for your help!
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11798 posts
Ortisei would mostly fit your criteria except it is not accessible directly by can take a train to Bolzano then a bus or taxi about an hour to Ortisei. Cableways ascend to three different points at Mont Sëuc, Seceda, and Rasciesa. I know from personal experience you can hike at Rasciesa and Mont Sëuc in the winter, the latter being an access point to the Alpe di Siusi.
It is high season, though, and getting any accommodation for 2 nights is a tough prospect. If they aren’t booked, they likely expect a minimum above two nights. You might try the Hotel Albion. It is a little outside of Ortisei but connected by bus and the hotel will also shuttle you to and from the village and cable ways.
Bolzano is not as high up, but you can go to the Renon Plateau which should have snow. Probably more flexibility in lodging.
Both towns have Christmas markets but they may be closed by the 2nd. Check with the tourist info offices.
Posted by
Minnesota, Wisconsin & Italy
104 posts
Agree with Laurel that Ortisei would be a great choice. Another nearby town worth looking at is Castelrotto.It has a boutique market and a jaw-dropping view of Mt. Schlern. If you want to experience a larger market, consider staying in or near Brixen: https://throneandvine.com/brixen-christmas-market/. Mt. Plose is above the town and offers great hikes and skiing opprtuities as well. Have a wonderful visit!