Alta Badia: sport, adventure and fun
Alta Badia is one of the most fascinating and renowned valleys in the Dolomites, located in the heart of the mountains of Südtirol. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich offer of sports activities, this area is a true paradise for mountain lovers, both in winter and summer. The valley is surrounded by some of the most famous mountains in the Dolomites, such as the Sas de Stria, Monte Conturines, Piz La Ila and the Sella Group.
Alta Badia is not only sports and nature, but is also famous for its annual events that attract visitors from all over the world. Below we present some events not to be missed in Alta Badia during the winter season, for lovers of sports competitions, skiing, good food and festivities!
Ski World Cup
On Piz la Ila, above the village of Stern, in the heart of Alta Badia lies the legendary Gran Risa slope, where from 21 to 23 December 2024, two men's World Cup races will be held as usual.
The best skiers in the world will compete in the two races starting at 1,868 metres at the start and arriving at 1,420 metres at the finish, along one of the most technically demanding World Cup courses.
Being there live and experiencing the unique atmosphere on race days, the tension, the concentration of the athletes, the cheering and the fantastic panorama of the Dolomites, are a mixture that will really get your heart racing. And on Sunday, the Dolomite peaks will also provide the backdrop for an exhibition by the famous Frecce Tricolori.
Sun Risa, skiing at sunrise
If you are in Alta Badia on Monday 23 December 2024 and you are a passionate skier, you absolutely must get up early and participate in the 'Sun Risa, skiing at sunrise' event in the beautiful scenery of the Dolomites at 2000 metres above sea level!
The lifts Col Alt, Costes dal Ega, Arlara and Piz Sorega will be open from 7:15 am and the connecting lifts on the plateau Bamby, La Fraina, Ciampai, Bioch, La Brancia and Braia Fraida will open at 7:30 a.m. The Piz La Ila cable car will open at 8.30 a.m. as usual.
The ski pass offices in Corvara and St. Kassian will open for the occasion at 7:10 a.m., and a free shuttle bus will also be organised from 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. (last run) every 10 to 15 minutes approx.
Breakfast at the refuge
Immaculate slopes, impressive mountain scenery and a tasty breakfast with high-quality regional ingredients is the perfect start to this extraordinary day. Each of the five participating mountain huts is paired with a breakfast staple, such as milk, cereal, eggs or fruit. The composition of the proposed breakfasts was studied together with Elena Casiraghi, nutrition expert - Equipe Enervit.
The participating refuges are:
- Ütia Bioch
- Ütia I Tablá
- Las Vegas Lodge
- Piz Arlara
- Club Moritzino
The meals can be purchased directly at the huts, only the ski pass is required for participation.
For gourmets and party animals
Alta Badia and Val Badia in general are famous for their restaurants. In the various huts, restaurants and bars you can feast and enjoy every delicacy. But the party very often continues after lunch or dinner, during après-ski and beyond!
Right next to the top station of the Piz La Ila cable car is the famous Club Moritzino, which every Wednesday and Saturday evening organises the famous Moritzino Nights, a successful mix of gourmet dinner and party night. You ascend by snowcat or cable car at 19:45 and reach 2100 metres on Piz La Ila. Once at the top, firebowls welcome guests, ideal for warming up before dinner and a welcome entrée. Then comes the aperitif with a rich buffet of finger food and lots of bubbly. At the table you then enjoy the first two courses created by chef Marco Spinelli. Already between the first and second courses, dance lovers can go wild to the notes of resident DJ Thomas Dorsi. After the second course it is time for dessert and then back to the dance floor until late at night.
The ski slopes, on the other hand, will be groomed and illuminated for the occasion, and the more sporty will be able to ski downhill at the end of the evening. Snowcats will also be available, for those who prefer, for the descent to the valley. For more information and to book, visit the Club Moritzino website.
If you are in Alta Badia in the run-up to Christmas, there is no shortage of possibilities for several! Whether skiing or participating in unique events, this valley in the Dolomites offers unforgettable experiences in the winter season!