Curator’s statement
Val Gardena is where rugged Alpine adventure meets sophisticated Italian luxury, and there is no better base for this than the charming village of Ortisei. This destination holds a special place in my heart for its ability to transition seamlessly from the adrenaline of the Sellaronda to the serene, world-class wellness of the local spas. It’s a rare pocket of the world where you can experience Michelin-starred dining and traditional Ladin culture while surrounded by the most dramatic limestone peaks on earth.
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Our stay was centered in the picturesque village of Ortisei, staying at the exceptional Gardena Grödnerhof. This property is a sanctuary of South Tyrolean hospitality, balancing an atmosphere of old-world elegance with cutting-edge wellness facilities. For travelers who value a “home base” that feels like a destination in itself, this is the gold standard. The village of Ortisei is perfectly positioned for those who want easy access to the mountains—via the Seceda or Alpe di Siusi lifts—while still being able to walk to high-end boutiques and vibrant cafes in the afternoon.
The culinary experience at Gardena Grödnerhof was the absolute highlight of our trip. We highly recommend making reservations for Anna Stuben, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant. It offers a focused, seasonal menu that pays homage to local flavors with an incredible level of precision. For a slightly more varied but equally refined experience, the 4 Saisons restaurant offers a beautiful blend of regional specialties and Mediterranean flair. Both venues embody the hotel’s commitment to excellence and provide the perfect reward after a day spent exploring the outdoors.
Speaking of exploration, the Sellaronda is the “must-do” for any visitor. Whether you are skiing the circuit in the winter or cycling/hiking sections in the summer, the scale of the Sella Massif is breathtaking. Completing the loop offers a sense of accomplishment and a constantly changing perspective of the Dolomites’ jagged architecture. It is an active traveler’s dream, yet it is accessible enough that even moderate adventurers can enjoy segments of it with the help of the extensive lift system.
I recommend this trip for couples seeking a romantic getaway or food-focused travelers who don’t want to sacrifice luxury for adventure. The combination of the Gardena Grödnerhof’s “Ananea” spa and the surrounding mountain trails ensures that you leave feeling both physically challenged and completely rejuvenated. It is the ultimate destination for those who want to see the best of the Italian Alps without the crowds of more commercialized European resorts.
Need to know
Book dining early: Secure reservations for Anna Stuben well in advance, as this Michelin-starred gem fills up weeks ahead of time.
Trilingual culture: Expect to see and hear a mix of Ladin, German, and Italian—learning a few Ladin phrases is a great way to connect with the locals.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Italy page.
Travel Advisor
Ben Murphy
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