The Olympics Come To Cortina 2026
As the world gears up for the 2026 Winter Olympics, the spotlight turns to the Italian Alps—specifically the breathtaking Dolomites, where Cortina d’Ampezzo and its neighboring ski towns will host a dazzling array of alpine events. But beyond the Olympic fanfare, this region offers some of the most iconic skiing in Europe, with terrain and culture that beckon skiers long after the medals are awarded.
Olympic Venues in the Heart of the Dolomites
Cortina d’Ampezzo, often called the “Queen of the Dolomites,” will host women’s alpine skiing on the legendary Olimpia delle Tofane, a World Cup staple known for its steep pitches and dramatic scenery. Nearby, Bormio will stage men’s alpine skiing on the Stelvio, one of the most technical and thrilling downhill tracks in the sport. Livigno, a freeride haven, will debut ski mountaineering, while Anterselva (Antholz) will host biathlon in its snow-covered basin near the Austrian border.
These venues aren’t just Olympic stages—they’re year-round playgrounds for skiers of all stripes.
Surrounded by the Dolomites
Cortina sits in the heart of the Dolomites—arguably the most photogenic mountains in ski country—where long, rolling reds, rifugio-to-rifugio lunches, and sun-drenched bowls define the day. Massive, interconnected lift systems mean you can ski all day without repeating a run if you plan it right.
(Alta Badia: Image from SkiResortInfo.com)
Dolomiti Superski on the Ikon
The entire region is part of the Dolomiti Superski network, one of the largest interconnected ski systems in the world. A single pass unlocks over 1,200 kilometers of slopes across 12 ski areas, including Cortina, Alta Badia, Val Gardena, and Kronplatz. Whether you're chasing powder or cruising groomers, the Superski pass offers seamless access to terrain that ranges from family-friendly blues to adrenaline-pumping couloirs.
The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site, and skiing here is as much about the views as the turns. Jagged limestone peaks glow pink at sunset, and the rifugi serve up hearty Tyrolean fare with panoramic vistas. Off-season, the crowds thin and the charm deepens—making it ideal for those who prefer soul over spectacle.
Town-by-town: who should ski where (outside the Olympics)
Cortina d’Ampezzo (Tofane, Faloria/Crístallo, Cinque Torri): Best for intermediates who love scenic reds, long lunches, and a lively passeggiata after skiing. Advanced skiers can hunt steeper lines off Tofane and hidden couloirs with a guide. Non-skiers are spoiled with shopping, spas, and aperitivo culture.
(Corrtina d'Ampezzo: Image from SkiResortInfo.com)
Bormio (Stelvio, Cima Bianca):
For experts chasing leg-burners and classic World Cup energy. Expect sustained pitches, serious vertical, and excellent value in town—plus famous thermal baths for recovery. Strong intermediates will also find satisfying reds, but icy mornings reward confident edges.
Livigno (Mottolino & Carosello 3000)
Park riders, freeriders, and adventurous intermediates will thrive here. Mottolino’s Snowpark is a destination in itself; across the valley, Carosello’s rolling terrain is perfect for progression and mileage. The town’s high-altitude setting brings a long season and a buzzy, youthful vibe.
Val di Fiemme (Predazzo, Tesero:
Ideal for Nordic skiers and alpine families who want gentle slopes, Italian hospitality, and easy day trips to bigger Dolomiti Superski circuits like the Sella Ronda. It’s a mellow base with serious cross-country cred.
Anterselva/Antholz:
A pilgrimage for biathlon fans with beautiful tracks and a tranquil valley atmosphere—great for mixed groups where some want XC and others want to day-trip to alpine lifts in the broader network.
(Cortina d'Ampezzo: Image from SkiResortInfo.com)
Whether you're a racer chasing speed, a freerider hunting lines, or a family looking for alpine magic, the Cortina 2026 venues offer a lifetime of skiing memories—Olympics or not.
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