This valley offers a wide variety of activities for families: with its many playgrounds, themed trails, and hikes through breathtaking landscapes, it’s a true paradise. In this mini-guide, we’ve put together lots of tips and ideas for a perfect vacation:
THE TRENTINO TRAIL IN VAL GARDENA
An easy walk along the route of the old Val Gardena railway line, which connects Ortisei to Plan (Selva di Val Gardena), passing through Santa Cristina. The trail is 10 kilometers long in total and is accessible even with a stroller or by bike. You can start at various points along the route and walk just a portion of it. The playgrounds and the tunnel you pass through along the way are beautiful. All the info is HERE.
ORTISEI
VAL D’ANNA
An easy walk, truly suitable for everyone, through a pristine valley just a couple of kilometers long. Along the way, you’ll come across a large meadow with a playground— perfect for a fun break. Continue to the end of the valley, where you’ll find a wonderful place to stop for a bite to eat. All the info HERE.
COL DE FLAM
The adventure park, near Ortisei, features a nearly 500-meter-long zip line through the woods and fun trampolines, as well as domestic animals and a long marble run. There are many different courses: an easy one, suitable for children ages 4 to 12; and a classic course, featuring bridges, nets, beams, logs, and moving platforms. For the more daring, there’s a zip line about 60 meters long that leads back to the classic course, or a thrilling 180-meter-long “slide.” Open from June through September, with varying hours and operating days. More details HERE.
SMALL CHURCH OF SAINT JAMES
If you want a postcard-perfect photo in Val Gardena, all you have to do is visit the little Gothic church of San Giacomo in Ortisei, at an elevation of 1,566 meters. It’s about an hour’s walk away, with a 350-meter elevation gain. Recommended for children who are somewhat used to walking. All the info HERE.
MAR DOLOMIT
A large lap pool for swimming, as well as numerous other pools with various features and water attractions, both indoors and outdoors. There’s also a 65-meter indoor water slide, whirlpool areas, a whirlpool, a Turkish bath, and a large green space. All the info HERE.
ST. CRISTINA
SECEDA
A beautiful hike in Val Gardena through mountain pastures and meadows in the heart of the Puez-Odle Nature Park. This route is also suitable for children who are used to walking and wearing hiking boots. The hike takes about three hours and offers postcard-perfect views. There’s a playground, animals grazing freely, and good food. All the info HERE.
PANARAIDA
A must-see adventure trail featuring 10 themed stations made from natural materials. The entire trail is about 3.5 kilometers long, mostly flat, and accessible with a stroller. To top it off, there’s a small riding stable and a beautiful playground. All the info HERE.
FIRENZE SHELTER
Located at an altitude of 2,000 meters, it can be reached via a trail that’s especially suitable for families and young hikers! It’s about a two-hour walk with a 400-meter elevation gain, passing through woods and wide meadows. The mountain hut serves traditional dishes and features a panoramic terrace and a small playground. All the info HERE.
