Val Gardena: summer among the Dolomites, trails and outdoor events

Val Gardena: landscape, sport and tradition

Located in the heart of the Dolomites within the Puez-Odle Nature Park, Val Gardena offers a full summer calendar of outdoor activities and events across its three main villages: Ortisei, Santa Cristina Valgardena and Selva di Val Gardena. Mountain scenery, local crafts and sports opportunities combine for experiences suitable for families, nature lovers and athletes.

What to do: hiking, biking and climbing

The valley provides extensive facilities for outdoor activities:

• 600 km of marked hiking trails for day hikes and longer routes;
• 600 km of mountain-bike trails, including the Trail Arena Val Gardena;
• climbing routes on the Odle, Stevia, Sassolungo and Sella massifs;
• 18 lifts linking villages to alpine pastures and high-altitude areas;
• 68 family-run mountain huts and a catering network ranging from traditional inns to higher-end restaurants.

The valley's seasonal highlights

Activities are organised into distinctive seasonal phases:

• Secret Dolomites (mid-May to mid-June): dramatic contrasts of lingering snow and flowering meadows, with guided hikes to the Lech de Ciampedel and trails such as the historical postal path;
• Green Dolomites (summer): the busiest period for outdoor activity, from hiking and cycling to climbing;
• Burning Dolomites (September–October): autumn colours and guided evening hikes (Tuesdays and Thursdays), plus the "Burning Dolomites – Long Aperitif" at the Alpe di Siusi mountain station on Wednesdays.

Main events (summer 2026)

The valley's program includes sporting events, cultural festivals and traditional celebrations:

• Biennale Gherdeina: 31 May - 13 September 2026 (international art exhibition);
• Traditional artisans and farmers market: 23 June - 8 September 2026;
• Sellaronda Bike Day: 6 June and 12 September 2026;
• MitiBlum: 19-21 June 2026;
• Sparkling Summer Nights in Ortisei: 26 June, 24 July and 28 August 2026;
• Gherdeina Craft Beer Festival: 25 July 2026 and other local festivals, including the International Day of Yoga (21 June) and mid-August parades.

Practical tips

• If you want to see snow and alpine blooms together, plan visits between mid-May and mid-June;
• September–October is best for autumn colours and cooler evening hikes;
• check lift opening times and book guided excursions through local operators;
• follow park regulations to protect the Puez-Odle Natural Park and its UNESCO-listed landscape.

For updated schedules, bookings and detailed programs, contact the local tourism office or consult Val Gardena's official event calendar.