Apr 08, 2022 / PROPERTY / RESORTS

Discover why the Dolomites are so popular

Italy is the fifth most visited country in the world, attracting around 94 million tourists each year. They come for the ancient sites and dreamy cities of course, but they also come to absorb the beauty of the mountains, and outdoor adventures with that certain twist of Italian style.

As Erica Cirbus from ECSM property explains in our latest podcast, one of the big draws for people looking to buy property in Italy, as a whole, and the Dolomites in particular is huge year round appeal.

“So, they come from very far away, they travel almost 24 hours getting to the Dolomites because they really enjoy being there, for the nature….peace and quiet and of course the views are amazing. And really not least importantly, the Dolomites, it has been announced, about 10 years ago, is a UNESCO heritage location.” 

 Erica Cirbus - ECSM Property

What is so special about the Dolomites? 

So what is it that makes this part of the alps so captivating? The scenery is stunning with pale limestone mountains, magical skies,incredible diversity of flora and fauna and an unmistakable Italian charm. When it comes to skiing the area stands out too. For a start it’s huge - there are some 1,200 kilometres of interconnected ski area to explore. All this space means less queueing for lifts, less congestion on the slopes and an all round wonderful skiing experience. Add in the fact that spring brings glorious wildflower meadows, summer brings superb hiking, legendary mountain biking on Sella Ronda or Alpe Di Siusi, and incredible Italian food is available all year round and the reason for the area’s appeal is sparklingly clear. 

Where should I look for ski property in the Dolomites? 

One of the other great things about the Dolomites is the variety of places to live. There are places that have a real family feel, full of play parks and close to gentle slopes, or sophisticated mountain villages with more than a dash of la dolce vita. 

Ski property in Alta Badia 

Part of the South East Tyrol, Alta Badia has welcomed skiers since 1947. It’s part of the Dolomiti Superski area, and offers some 53 lifts, 130km of runs and altitudes of up to 2778m in the immediate surrounds. There is skiing for all ages and abilities, and a sense that this is a place to enjoy, absorb and experience. It almost never feels crowded, there’s a welcoming, vibe and the town is one that people love to return to. 

Activities like Sommelier on the Slopes combine two great joys - skiing and sampling Tyrolean wines, while a unique forest bathing experience, involving sleighs and Norian horses, has to be one of the best ways to get away from it all. There’s night skiing too, as well as access to the 500 km of pistes that make up the Dolomiti Superski and the legendary downhill run from Lagazuoi mountain. And the food - well, if we tell you that some of the best mountain delicacies like oozy fontina and sharp tangy speck come from this part of the world you’ll understand why this is such a special place for those who love authentic cuisine. 

Sumptuous styling and stunning views in Val Gardena

What type of property can I buy in Alta Badia?

There’s a good range of property types in the area. You’ll find stylish apartments like this two bedroom apartment in La Villa village centre or properties like this four bedroom, four bathroom house that’s packed with potential for use as a family home, or a business venture. It’s worth noting that Italy is free from many of the restrictions that other countries place on their alpine area, so foreigners are free to buy, even if they do not live in an EU or EEA country. 

Ski property in Val de Gardena

Val de Gardena is a paradise for nature lovers. It’s a UNESCO world heritage site, and each year experiences the phenomenon of the Burning Dolomites. As the pines turn golden red, the light sits at a certain angle and the effect of the mountain glow is more than worthy of the word awesome. This is a land of castles and folktales, as well as a land of superb skiing and incredible food. 

Ski wise the area is pretty magical too, There’s access to the 500km of pistes that make up the Dolomiti Superski area and famous runs like La Longia, the longest in South Tyrol, are on your doorstep. Alpe di Siusi is great for beginners and families and La Sella Ronda is one of the most famous ski carousels n the world. Val de Gardena has two new slopes for the 2021/22 season too. Adrenalin fiends will relish the 52% incline of La Ria, while those of a more gentle persuasion will enjoy the forest trail of Pilat, complete with unique views over Val de Gardena. 

What kind of property can I buy in Val de Gardena? 

Again there is a great range of property to buy in Val de Gardena. This four bedroom, four bathroom apartment in Selva Gardena offers stunning accommodation, with two panoramic balconies, spacious accommodation and the opportunity to personalise the interior. With on foot access to a ski lift connections and lots of amenities close by this is a great holiday home or business venture. 

If you’re seeking a luxurious home, with plenty of scope for friends and family to visit then this penthouse apartment in Selva Gardena is perfect. Superbly appointed, with endless, unobstructed mountain views and direct lift access it’s a dream property in a dream location. 

Ski property in Brenta

Set in the heart of the Brenta Dolomites, the Brenta ski area has 150km of pistes over 108 slopes, served by 60 lifts. There are several key areas, each with their own style and appeal. 

Madonna di Campiglio

Madonna di Campiglio is known as the centre of glamour and style. Impossibly pretty, car free and blessed with magical views this is a place that draws visitors from all over the world. It has 150km of superb skiing and hosts the Event Tre FIS Ski world cup - the longest night slalom in Europe. 

The village is a place to linger - there is wonderful architecture including the Church of Santa Maria Antica, as well as countless places to enjoy the fabulous food this area is so renowned for. Away from the slopes, this is a haven for nature lovers, with Adamello Brenta National Park nearby, and the Orti Della Regina path that meanders past ancient fossils and alpine flora. 

Property in Madonna di Campiglio

Whether you’re looking for sleek and stylish,or a charm filled family home, Madonna di Campiglio has plenty to offer. This four bedroom, three bathroom villa is set next to the golf course at Bocenago village, and surrounded by opportunities for hiking, walking and simply enjoying this fabulous landscape. 

If apartment style living is more your scene, then this four bedroom apartment in the heart of Madonna di Campiglio is one of the best opportunities we’ve seen for a while. With private outside space, panoramic terraces and impeccable interiors this splendid apartment is a real gem. Parking and easy on foot access to the slopes completes the picture. 

Beautiful brand new chalets in Pinzolo

Pinzolo

If you’re more of an avoid the crowds type, then Pinzolo may just be the place. Set on the Sarca river It’s got a relaxed vibe, stunning views of Doss del Sabion and a family feel. The town hosts events like the Trato Marzo, a festival with fire and folk songs, as well as the European figure skating championships. 

Property in Pinzolo

Property wise, Pinzolo offers a mix of old and new and one of the newest developments is this exciting collection of just 5 luxury mountain chalets. Designed with impeccable eco-credentials, the properties face south east for maximum light, and intelligently designed accommodation over three floors. Just five minutes from the cable car to the magnificent Brenta ski area, these properties are superb opportunity for home hunters and investors alike. 

Find out more 

To discover more about property in the Dolomites, listen to our podcast interview with Erica Cirbus. We discuss the types of properties, types of buyers and what makes this part of Italy so appealing. For practical info on buying in Italy take a look at our buyers guide and for insight and ideas about moving to the mountains, take a look at our articles, which are updated regularly. 

To be sure of seeing the latest ski properties in Italy, join our property alert service. Our tailored search means your can get details of your preferred property direct to your inbox, so you’re always one step ahead.