why-choose-cortina

Why should you choose Cortina d’Ampezzo over other Dolomites destinations? This corner of paradise contains everything a traveler could desire: breathtaking views, a rich history of mountaineering and sports, and a vibrant local culture. Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” is one of the most sought-after alpine destinations for nature and adventure enthusiasts. Let’s explore why Cortina d’Ampezzo stands out from other famous Dolomite locations, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

Discover why you should choose Cortina over other Dolomites destinations

A unique landscape among the Dolomites

Among the numerous locations in the Dolomites, it’s clear why you should choose Cortina: it stands out for the charm of its landscape. Compared to equally famous places like Val Gardena, Val Badia, or Val di Fassa, Cortina offers a more expansive and unspoiled environment where the beauty of the Dolomite peaks combines with a sense of openness and grandeur.

The nickname “Queen of the Dolomites” is inspired by the arrangement of the peaks that embrace it like a crown. Those who have had the opportunity to visit know how much this nickname reflects its charm: sublime, unique, a place that stands out from all others.

Here, the mountains do not confine the valley but embrace it with broad horizons and a sense of freedom that few places can offer.
The Ampezzo Dolomites seem painted by nature’s best artist, with peaks that change color at dawn and dusk, offering a spectacle that leaves one speechless in any season.

Ernest Hemingway, who had seen many places, wrote in a letter to E. Walsh: “Cortina D’Ampezzo is one of the most beautiful places on earth. The people are good and proper. We spent the end of a winter there once, at the Bellevue Hotel. Liugie Menarde (Luigi Menardi, ed.) is the owner. It’s the most beautiful place I have ever seen. We will go there this winter for a ski trip if all goes well.” (see: “Ernest Hemingway – Letters 1917-1961”)

Via Ferrata and equipped paths in Cortina

It’s easy to see why you should choose Cortina for your adventure, as it is also famous for the impressive number of via ferrata that surround it. These routes offer spectacular and challenging itineraries that combine the adventure of climbing with the safety of equipped paths. The area is rich in options, with routes varying in difficulty and length, allowing experienced climbers and beginners to enjoy the experience.

The via ferrata of Cortina d’Ampezzo is also steeped in historical significance, especially for those interested in the events of World War I.

During the conflict, the Dolomite region was the theater of fierce battles between Italian and Austro-Hungarian troops, who adapted the mountains into fortifications. The via ferrata were born during this period, with cables, ladders, and walkways allowing troops to move more efficiently in a rugged environment.

Today, many of these routes, such as those in the Tofane Group, allow hikers to walk among the remains of trenches and military positions, offering an experience that combines adventure and historical memory.

The Ivano Dibona Ferrata, with its suspended bridge, is one of the most famous and offers an exciting experience in contact with the mountain. The numerous well-equipped paths make Cortina an appealing destination for adventure lovers, both experienced and novices.

An unmatched mountaineering tradition

Mountaineering in Cortina has a remarkable history dating back to the 19th century. In 1864, Paul Grohmann, founder of the Austrian Alpine Club, presented the first alpine guidebook to Francesco Lacedelli, officially starting the tradition of Cortina’s Mountain Guides. Since then, guides have continued to lead enthusiasts and beginners to explore the majestic Dolomite peaks, becoming reference figures for safety and knowledge of the mountain.

Cortina d’Ampezzo on the big and small screen

Thanks to its extraordinary beauty, Cortina has attracted the attention of numerous international directors and has been chosen as the set for many iconic films, creating unforgettable scenes. Among the films shot in this beautiful location are:

The Italian Job (2003): which used the mountains of Cortina for breathtaking shots.
Cliffhanger (1993): the famous action film starring Sylvester Stallone, where I worked.
Ladyhawke (1985): starring Rutger Hauer and Michelle Pfeiffer.
For Your Eyes Only (1981): with James Bond speeding through spectacular ski chases.
The Pink Panther (1963): featuring Peter Sellers, one of Hollywood’s iconic films.
Vacanze di Natale (1983): an Italian cult film that popularized Cortina as a top vacation destination.
Un passo dal cielo (dal 2011): this Italian TV series uses the unique landscapes of Cortina.
Commercials: Audi, Toyota, TIM, Frecciarossa, and many others have chosen the unique views of Cortina.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, a destination for every season

WINTER SPORTS IN CORTINA

Cortina is the perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with slopes renowned worldwide. Why choose Cortina? In addition to alpine skiing, outdoor lovers can enjoy unforgettable experiences like ski touring and snowshoeing.

In 1956, Cortina d’Ampezzo hosted the seventh edition of the Winter Olympic Games. Thanks to television, this event brought images of the Dolomites and the city to the world, marking the beginning of the era of winter tourism. In 2026, the Olympics will return to Cortina, which is undergoing modernization of slopes, lifts, sports facilities, and accommodations, thus continuing to be a landmark for sports enthusiasts worldwide.

The snowy landscape of the Dolomites offers spectacular routes for ski touring. Skiers can venture into less-traveled paths, enjoying breathtaking views and the tranquility of nature. Local guides, experienced and passionate, are ready to share their knowledge, ensuring a safe and fulfilling experience.

Moreover, snowshoeing represents an ideal way to explore winter trails, allowing for easy walking on snow and discovering hidden corners of the mountain. Snowshoes offer a unique way to appreciate Cortina’s winter beauty, whether a relaxing family walk or a more adventurous hike.

SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN CORTINA

During the summer and autumn, nature enthusiasts can fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the Dolomites. The numerous trails winding through these mountains offer paths suitable for everyone, from casual walkers to more experienced hikers.

The varying altitudes and spectacular views make every walk unique, while local flora and fauna varieties enrich the experience. For those seeking a more intense adventure, climbing offers the chance to challenge oneself on unforgettable rock faces, with expert guides ready to share the area’s wonders.

These mountains have written fundamental chapters in the history of mountaineering. Here, you can find many of the great routes of the Alps, and the Dolomites continue to be home to exceptionally skilled climbers. These mountains represent a true paradise for climbers. The possibilities are endless, with routes of every difficulty and length, allowing every mountaineer, from beginners to experts, to find a climb that suits their abilities and preferences.

Additionally, mountain bike lovers can venture along a network of well-marked trails that wind through enchanting forests and spectacular scenery. Whether it’s a peaceful stroll among the larches or a challenging descent on two wheels, the Dolomites promise an unforgettable experience that can invigorate the spirit and reconnect with nature.

An elegant and welcoming historic center

Strolling along Corso Italia, the vibrant heart of Cortina, visitors are immersed in a refined yet lively atmosphere where Alpine tradition blends seamlessly with contemporary style. Fashion boutiques stand alongside historic cafés, charming pastry shops, and gourmet restaurants, creating an open-air living room where it is a pleasure to pause, observe, and simply enjoy the moment. Here, Cortina’s international allure is unmistakable — a destination that gracefully combines elegance, social vibrancy, and authenticity.

At the same time, Cortina is far from being exclusively about luxury. Alongside prestigious brands, you will find welcoming pizzerias, cozy wine bars, local delicatessens, and shops offering more accessible options to suit every type of traveler. This variety allows everyone to experience the town center comfortably, without compromising on quality.

International events and local tradition

Since 1956, the year it hosted the Winter Olympics, Cortina d’Ampezzo has continued to be a benchmark for sports and cultural events. The town stands out internationally for its events, attracting professional athletes and enthusiasts of local culture and traditions.

Among the most famous events are skiing competitions, such as the Alpine Ski World Cup, where world-renowned athletes compete on the Tofana slopes. Cortina has also hosted iconic competitions, such as the Alpine Ski World Championships in 2021, and is preparing to host the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics in 2026.

In addition to alpine skiing, the city has hosted international snowboard competitions and the Ski Mountaineering World Cup. These sporting events showcase the athletes’ technical skills and highlight the community’s hospitality and quality of tourist infrastructure.

Beyond winter sports, why choose Cortina? Cortina organizes summer events like the Lavaredo Ultra Trail, a mountain race that crosses breathtaking landscapes in the Dolomites, and the Coppa d’Oro delle Dolomiti, one of the world’s most picturesque and historic vintage car competitions. Art and culture enthusiasts find equally engaging opportunities: “Una Montagna di Libri” is a literary festival that involves authors and readers in discussions and presentations, attracting international guests and literature lovers.

These events occur throughout the year, making Cortina an attractive hub for sports enthusiasts and those who appreciate traditions and a cosmopolitan atmosphere in a unique alpine setting.

Customs and Traditions

The Regole d’Ampezzo, a set of traditional rules and customs that govern the use of natural resources in the Dolomites, particularly in Cortina d’Ampezzo, is vital to Cortina. It represents an important cultural heritage, promoting sustainability and social cohesion within the local community.

The Ladin language is still spoken and taught, keeping alive a cultural identity that makes Cortina and the Dolomites unique, providing visitors with an authentic immersion in the history and traditions of these mountains.
Religious festivals, such as the Ospitale Procession, are moments of significant community participation. Important events like Corpus Domini, the Madonna of the Rosary, First Communions, Confirmations, weddings, and funerals attract varying numbers of people in traditional clothing: the Ampezzan costume, which until the last century was an integral part of daily attire.

Additionally, folklore events such as the Ampezzan Carnival feature residents wearing traditional Ladin costumes as they parade through the historic center, celebrating their roots. Another fundamental aspect is local craftsmanship, renowned for wood carving and the creation of decorated furniture. These artisans perpetuate techniques passed down through generations, creating works that reflect the motifs and influences of Ladin and Tyrolean culture.

Hospitality in mountain huts and lodges is also a distinctive sign of the local culture. Here, people can enjoy typical dishes such as canederli (dumplings), casunziei (ravioli), and speck (smoked ham) prepared according to traditional recipes.

Members of the Cortina d’Ampezzo Musical Band proudly wear the “vestì a r’anpezana” (Ampezzan attire) and participate in “Ra festa de ra Bandes” on the last Sunday of August.

During this celebration, one can admire the traditional Ampezzan costumes and those from nearby valleys, accompanied by the music of the various bands present.

The “demonticare” in Cortina d’Ampezzo is a late-summer tradition related to transhumance, which involves the return of livestock from the high mountain pastures back to the stables in the village. After spending the summer on high-altitude pastures, the livestock is brought back down, often in orderly groups and accompanied by shepherds. This ritual marks the end of the summer season and prepares the animals for winter life in the barn.

A false reputation about prices in Cortina d’Ampezzo

It is often said that prices in Cortina are higher than other tourist destinations in the Dolomites, but this is not true. In fact, why choose Cortina? Because its prices are in line with those of places like Val Badia, Ortisei, Canazei, and Val Gardena. In Cortina, you can find accommodation for all budgets, from family-run guesthouses and affordable Airbnb to luxury hotels. It is a destination that offers a wide range of possibilities, ensuring a quality stay at prices comparable to those of other renowned Dolomite destinations. However, like in all tourist areas, prices tend to be higher than those in less well-known destinations, as they often reflect higher demand and the costs of more advanced infrastructure.

The drawbacks of Cortina d’Ampezzo

Although Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of the most celebrated and enchanting alpine destinations, it is not without some drawbacks that visitors might encounter. From overcrowding during peak seasons to accessibility limitations and environmental challenges related to mass tourism, here are some of the main aspects to consider when visiting this superb Dolomite location.

Overcrowding during peak times

Cortina can become extremely crowded during the high season, especially in August and during the Christmas holidays. Finding parking, booking a restaurant table, or enjoying the peace of the mountains can become a challenge. While the influx of tourists is vital for the economy, it can also diminish the authenticity of the experience for visitors.

Accessibility issues

Despite improvements in recent years, accessibility to Cortina can be complicated, especially for those from afar. The lack of a direct train connection and often congested roads on weekends or holidays make traveling less convenient for some tourists.

Depopulation

The real estate market in Cortina is among the most expensive in Italy, with prohibitive prices that make homeownership unattainable for many. This trend encourages the purchase of second homes by wealthy individuals who only occupy them for short periods throughout the year. Consequently, young locals find it challenging to settle in Cortina and are often forced to relocate elsewhere, thus contributing to the town’s gradual depopulation.

Cortina and environmental challenges

The increasing pressure of mass tourism has led to reflections on environmental impact. The Dolomites are a fragile ecosystem, and today, the real challenge for Cortina is to find a balance between welcoming visitors, protecting the environment, and preserving the beauty that makes it unique.