Marmolada

The Marmolada, the highest peak of the south-eastern Alps and often called the "Queen of the Dolomites", is a near-perfect ski area on the border between Trentino and Veneto. The northern slopes of the Marmolada massif are covered by a glacier, and its excellent pistes allow skiing all year round. The resort is made even more attractive by its links to the Arabba and Sella Ronda ski areas. The villages with direct access to the slopes are Rocca Pietore (1,143 m), Sottoguda (1,252 m) and Malga Ciapela (1,446 m); the others, Bosco Verde, Caprile and Saviner, have an efficient connection by regular ski buses, free for ski pass holders. The Marmolada ski area consists of intermediate pistes. The longest run (Pista Bellunese) is 12 km long and leads from Punta Rocca (3,269 m) to Passo Fedaia (2,057 m). A curiosity is the piste commemorating the First World War, along which you can see fortifications built by German and Italian soldiers in 1914-18. The Marmolada's undisputed highlight is heliskiing: a helicopter flight over the massif, then a drop-off and a 12 km descent. There is also something for beginners: a ski and snowboard school in Malga Ciapela and pistes on the Passo Padon. The offer for cross-country skiers is somewhat more modest. The ten-kilometre Pista Panoramica, however, is worth recommending for its stunning views of the Marmolada's rock spires. Cross-country lessons can be booked in Malga Ciapela. The area offers a wide range of other sports: ice climbing, sleigh and snowmobile rides, and torchlit descents. Walkers have 2.5 km of winter trails in Marmolada/Serrai di Sottoguda. The nightlife here is not particularly varied. Those who want it are better off heading to nearby Cortina, Corvara or Canazei. There is no shortage, though, of the ski huts and inns typical of mountain areas, where you can taste local specialities.