3 Zinnen- Austrian Vibes In Italy
Torn between Austria and Italy? Enjoy the best of both worlds in 3 Zinnen Dolomites (www.dreizinnen.com) the new must-visit destination on the Italian ski map. Uncrowded slopes, sublime mountain scenery and a lifestyle that combines South Tyrolean charm and brilliant Italian pizzazz ticks all the boxes for a winter escape of unfettered ski adventure and family fun at the heart of the most spectacular of Dolomite landscapes.
In a predominantly German speaking region with its own proud cultural identity, each of 3 Zinnen Dolomites’ five villages has its own special character and charm:
- The lively market town and gateway to the area Dobbiaco is perfect for anyone looking for a unique mix of culture and sports. Diverse winter activities are on offer and the state-of-the-art train transports skiers in ten minutes to Versciaco - the main 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski area.
- Historic San Candido is clustered around its medieval abbey. Regular ski bus/train transfers operate from the centre, and the Monte Baranci ski area is immediately accessible – a key component of the 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski network with a dedicated family zone.
- Ski-in, ski-out Sesto spreads itself at the foot of the pistes offering direct access to extensive skiing at the heart of the Dolomites. Breathtaking scenery is a bonus.
- Gentle paced Villabassa, surrounded by unspoilt nature, is the place for a relaxing winter break. Located between the 3 Zinnen Dolomites and Plan de Corones areas, access to extensive skiing is fast and easy using its local railway station
- Tiny Braies, linked by bus to Villabassa and equally bucolic, is the ideal choice for families and first-time skiers wanting a peaceful escape. Visitors have easy access to the pistes, nursery slopes, hiking trails and cross country skiing.
115km of immaculate pistes offer thrilling sport for all levels of skier and glorious views of the iconic Dolomites (UNESCO World Heritage Site). The World Ski Awards named 3 Zinnen Dolomites the Best Ski Resort 2024 – a firm endorsement for a superb ski trip. Varied terrain with 100% snow-making cover from late November to April is assured. Between the valley (1120 – 1200m) and the top station at 2225m, 31 state-of-the-art lifts operating entirely on renewable energy deliver fast and comfortable access to the slopes. The resort’s ongoing campaign to upgrade cutting edge facilities bears fruit this season with the new 6-seater Porzen chairlift (2200 passengers/hour) and extension to the corresponding piste on the Croda Rossa mountain at the heart of the five connected ski areas. This important development has improved access and enhanced pleasure for all users.
High quality standards, prepared pistes of every level, and excellent ski schools make 3 Zinnen Dolomites the ideal choice for a memorable ski holiday for families and winter sports enthusiasts. Magic carpets, nursery slopes, lift-accessible toboggan runs, and night skiing twice a week are all on offer, while Giant snowmen and other on-slope attractions add extra fun.
Strong skiers are also well catered for with a good choice of varied slopes groomed to perfection, including Italy’s steepest - the Holzriese (71% gradient). The Giro delle Cime, takes nature lovers on a beautiful full-day tour (43km/5600m elevation change and accessible to intermediate skiers) away from the slopes and taking in some of the Dolomites most magnificent peaks.
The holiday region 3 Zinnen Dolomites is a paradise for ski touring and cross country skiing in secluded valleys and on high-altitude trails at Prato Piazza and Nemesalm. Non-skiers can enjoy winter hiking in the valley and on the mountain, and snowshoeing above 2000m, accessible by lift. After an active day in the mountains, it’s time for some relaxation in one of the many wellness resorts or over a glass of something sparkling to toast the famous Dolomites enrosadira – the pink glow of the mountains at sunset.
Food and hospitality exceed expectation. Take your pick between cosy B&Bs, charming family-run establishments, lavish hotels and luxurious Spa & wellness retreats. Accommodation is complemented by irresistible local specialities and Alpine-Mediterranean cuisine plus excellent South Tyrolean wines in a profusion of cosy mountain huts, gourmet restaurants, cafés and traditional bars.
Access to the 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski resort is easy from Venice, with a new weekly bus transfer service (The Cortina Express - 2 hours). Other airports a similar distance from 3 Zinnen include Treviso and Bolzano in Italy and Innsbruck and Klagenfurt in Austria. The resort offers 31 high-tech lifts, 115km of downhill piste and 200km of cross country trails. www.dreizinnen.com
