Nestled in Italy’s South Tyrol, Alta Badia is part of the Dolomiti Superski network—the largest ski domain in the world. Situated between 1,400 m and 2,778 m above sea level, it offers 130 km (81 miles) of pistes, kept in pristine shape by nearly 400 snow cannons covering 80% of the slopes. Famed for its laid-back atmosphere, varied terrain, and top-notch cuisine (including Michelin-starred dining), Alta Badia makes a perfect match for beginners, families, intermediates, and even advanced skiers looking to conquer iconic runs like the Gran Risa.
Here’s a practical guide we’ve put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Alta Badia ski holiday. You’re going to learn everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and even the best spots to grab a bite or chill out after skiing.
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Alta Badia is located in northeastern Italy, in the southern part of Val Badia (South Tyrol).
For a detailed view of Alta Badia's location, you can explore it on Google Maps.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
Alta Badia is best viewed as a multi-village ski resort, encompassing six distinctive villages, each with its own personality.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Uncrowded slopes | Limited challenging runs |
| Short lift queues | Vertical drops can feel modest |
| Reliable snow | Après-ski is relaxed |
| Access to Dolomiti Superski (1,200 km/746 miles total) | No real long runs |
For novices, Alta Badia is widely regarded as one of the most welcoming regions in the Dolomites. More than half of its pistes are classified as easy (blue), with broad, forgiving slopes that foster a comfortable learning environment. Designated beginners’ zones are found in several villages, most notably around the Boè and Col Alt lifts in Corvara, where mild inclines and spacious terrain allow newcomers to develop balance and confidence.
A huge portion of Alta Badia’s terrain caters to intermediate-level skiers. The Piz La Ila sector, in particular, boasts several mid-grade pistes perfect for refining carving technique, while the broad, rolling runs above San Cassiano provide a scenic alternative for less confident cruisers. Many intermediates also set their sights on the wider Dolomiti Superski network, made accessible by Alta Badia’s well-placed lifts. The Sellaronda circuit—a 40 km loop around the Sella massif—serves as a grand highlight for confident intermediates, offering both clockwise and anticlockwise routes.
Although Alta Badia’s slopes lean toward beginner and intermediate terrain, advanced skiers still discover pockets of genuine challenge. The black variant of the Gran Risa—location of the annual World Cup Giant Slalom—includes segments reaching a 53% gradient and often remains icier due to limited direct sun. Vallon-Boè, descending from the top of Boè peak into Corvara, is another demanding run that drops over 1,000 metres and is frequently cited as one of the most formidable in the Dolomites. For those intent on deeper exploration, side trips to Arabba (home to the steep Porta Vescovo runs) or to Marmolada’s glacier provide additional vertical and more challenging slopes.
Snowboarders and freestyle skiers can head to the Snowpark Alta Badia on the Piz Sorega plateau, accessible from San Cassiano. This park caters to various skill levels, offering beginner-friendly boxes and small kickers as well as larger jumps and rails for experienced riders. There’s also a Kidslope Pralongià Park suited to younger boarders and those looking to build confidence with more modest features.
There are off-piste possibilities, especially around the Vallon-Boè area. These routes can be both thrilling and technically demanding, so hiring a local guide is strongly recommended due to the Dolomites’ abrupt terrain and variable snowpack. Many advanced skiers also choose to venture toward Arabba or Marmolada—both easily reachable within the Dolomiti Superski network—for additional freeride options.
The ski season in Alta Badia for 2024/25 started on December 5th and is expected to run until April 6th, though dates may vary depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Alta Badia this winter, be sure to explore our Alta Badia deals for the best ski offers available.
Alta Badia offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 22 cm (8.66 in) and 19 cm (7.48 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.9 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall increases to 24 cm (9.44 in) and it occurs more frequently, averaging 3.6 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of February, traditionally the snowiest week in Alta Badia, with an impressive 35 cm (13.77 in) of snow over 4.2 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 19 cm (7.48 in) of snow over 3.2 days.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 22 cm/8.66 in | 2.8 days |
| January | 19 cm/7.48 in | 3.0 days |
| February | 24 cm/9.44 | 3.6 days |
| March | 23 cm/9.05 in | 3.8 days |
| April | 19 cm/7.48 in | 3.2 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Alta Badia has gained a world-class reputation for its culinary scene—Michelin-starred restaurants, rustic rifugi, and everything in between. Highlights include:
Alta Badia’s après-ski tends to be low-key yet convivial, focusing on good wine, local beers, and relaxed socialising. Highlights include:
