Val di Fassa

The famous Val di Fassa is a top choice among hikers and winter sports enthusiasts. Many consider it to be one of the most stunning parts of the Dolomites. Offering breathtaking views of the steep mountains at every turn. It's a location that is far from overrun. Moreover, this is a particularly beautiful nature reserve, in every season of the year. In summary, I can strongly affirm that a visit to Val di Fassa is essential if you're in the area. 

This mountain valley has been formed in a truly unique way. Over the course of millions of years, it has been carved out by the Avisio river. This river originates from the glaciers of the nearby Marmolada mountain, which you can clearly see. In German, it's referred to as Fassatal, although this name is used less frequently. 

The valley is perfectly suited for numerous hikes, while in winter it offers exceptional opportunities for winter sports.

One of the prime locations to get an extraordinary view of the landscape is Pordoipas. Which is also known as Sass Pordoi. This location is often referred to as the terrace of the Dolomites. You can reach it by cable car, which departs from Pordoi Pass, a mere 12 km from Canazei. The cable car ascends to a breathtaking height of 2,950 meters, offering you multiple opportunities to savour the incredible panoramic views of the mountains. With majestic names like Marmolada, Sella, Latemar, Sassolungo, and Catinaccio.

Another highlight is Lago d’Antermoia, known in German as Antermoiasee. This mountain lake is situated at a staggering 2,500 meters above sea level. It's quite straightforward to hike there. And the view you'll be rewarded with is absolutely worth the effort.

In the valley, various villages lie: Moena, Soraga, Vigo, Pozza, Mazzin, Campitello and Canazei. All of them enjoy a splendid view of the Dolomites. Therefore, they are perfect places to stay. Where you can savour both the sunset and the sunrise.

There are, indeed, countless places to stay in and around this unique alpine meadow. Think small-scale hotels, hostels, and Bed & Breakfasts with breakfast included. I've stayed in various locations, including with local farmers. This way, you can see how they run their businesses. However, do ensure you book in advance, as this region becomes very popular during the summer and holiday periods.

Find the best accommodation in Val di Fassa

Val di Fassa offers more than fifty enticing hiking trails. Ranging from short to several days long. Numerous mountain passes link Val di Fassa with other mountain valleys, allowing for days of continuous hiking. There's also an abundance of challenging mountain biking routes. And for those who enjoy mountaineering: there are various climbing routes. From easy to extremely difficult.

During the winter, Val di Fassa transforms into a prominent hub for winter sports. As an integral part of Dolomiti Superski, it's among the largest ski areas in the world and deemed by many as one of the most beautiful. It also forms a part of the Sella Ronda, the name referring to a well-loved ski tour that can be enjoyed in both directions. In my view, it's indisputably one of the most stunning ski excursions worldwide.

Val di Fassa is undeniably one of the last valleys where the Ladin language is spoken. An incredible linguistic treasure that can now only be found in a small part of Switzerland and in Trentino, South Tyrol and Veneto in Italy. For an extensive dive into this unique linguistic heritage, make sure to visit the Ladin Museum in Sèn Jan di Fassa. More than just language, you will uncover an entire culture. Among other fascinating aspects, the museum showcases the vibrant traditional costumes which are certain to leave a lasting impression.