HIDDEN... Christmas Ski Galore in the Dolomites

Arrive in Alta Badia on your own and check into your hotel (private transfers available on request).
Located in a large valley surrounded all around by the gorgeous peaks of the Dolomites, Alta Badia is truly the “heart of the Dolomites.” Geographically in the South Tyrol (Südtirol), this area was part of Austria prior to the First World War. Here you’ll find unique mountain scenery with villages rich in natural beauties and ancient traditions, witness the simple everyday life of the local people (the “Ladini”), as well as the customs and traditions of the ancient Ladin culture. You’ll notice the street signs are written in three languages – first in Ladino (a neo- Latin language), then in German, and lastly in Italian. The mixed culture is very well marked not only in the language, but also in the architecture and cuisine. You will surely enjoy hearty meals that are representative of the incredible diversity of this region.
Upon arrival at the hotel you may wish to collect your ski hire (not included) and enjoy the hotel SPA facilities before enjoying dinner at the hotel's restaurant.

In the morning meet your local English speaking UIAGM/IFMGA Professional Ski Guide for a trip briefing and orientation, to receive your ski maps, ski-passes, and to start your day on the slopes.
Today you will discover the Alta Badia Ski Resort. Corvara, Colfosco, La Villa, San Cassiano, Badia and La Val are the famous names of the towns of Alta Badia that represent the cradle of the Dolomites winter tourism. Alta Badia is located between 1,400 and 2,700 meters (4,593-8,858') above sea level and this altitude ensures optimal ski conditions throughout the winter, and offers breath-taking views of the most beautiful peaks of the Dolomites. Fast and comfortable ski lift connections (53 total), miles of wide, well-groomed slopes (130km / 81 miles), and the spaciousness of the ski area allow you to enjoy pleasant and safe skiing days. Charming mountain huts and first class mountain restaurants round out the appeal, making Alta Badia a ski area for connoisseurs. You will have the opportunity to venture on the famous World Cup slope of Gran Risa or on the more relaxed slopes of Santa Croce or Pralongia’. Try some of the traditional Ladin specialities served in the many rifugios on the slopes. Thanks to the Ladine, Tyrolean, and Mediterranean influences this area has developed a unique and extremely varied cuisine.

In the morning take a private transfer to San Vigilio di Marebbe, to reach the ski area of Plan de Corones/Kronplatz.

Kronplatz is a popular destination for skiers, with its majestic 2,275-meter (7,464') peak standing out from the surrounding mountains. On the top of a wooded area, along the south side of the Pusteria Valley, it offers a 360-degree panorama of the entire surroundings. In fact, the view from Kronplatz is one of the most beautiful in the Alps, and offers vistas across all points of the compass: from Austria’s Lienz Dolomites to the east, to Italy and Switzerland’s Ortler Group to the west, from the Dolomite’s Marmolada Massif to the south, and across the Puster Valley to the Zillertal Alps in the north. With 105 kilometers (65 miles) of pistes and more than 30 modern lifts, its slopes will take you towards Riscone (Brunico), San Vigilio di Marebbe, Valdaora, and Perca.
In the afternoon, return to your hotel by private transfer.

In the morning, take a private transfer to Passo Falzarego and enjoy the slopes at Cinque Torri; take the Lagazuoi cable car, which arrives at an altitude of 2,800 meters (9,186') in just three minutes! Once you reach the top, stop to enjoy the breathtaking panorama from the terrace of the Rifugio Lagazuoi, famous throughout the world for its spectacular views of the Dolomite peaks.
When you’re ready to descend, you’re in for a treat! The Armentarola slope unfolds along the foot of the imposing Fanes mountain, in an enchanting fairy-tale valley surrounded by majestic castles of rock and frozen waterfalls, making this magical descent an endless flow of thrills and surprises. And just like in the fairy-tales, the run ends with a horse-drawn lift.
Continue skiing at leisure on the slopes in Alta Badia.

In the morning ski to the town of Arabba, take the Porta Vescovo cable car and continue through slopes and lifts to Malga Ciapela, where you'll find the first of the three cable cars taking you up to the Marmolada Glacier. Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” Marmolada (3,350m / 10,990') is the highest peak and the only glacier in these mountains. You will get our full share of stunning views all around you, including the Catinaccio, Sassolungo, Sella, and Gran Vernel.

Breakfast and departure on your own (private transfers available on request).