In the heart of the Dolomites lies the charming town of Cortina D'Ampezzo, known for its stunning scenic mountains and world-class skiing.
But there is so much more to this picturesque town than just skiing. From the gorgeous Italian architecture to the delicious food and over-the-top shopping, Cortina D’Ampezzo is a must-see destination for any traveler. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay, eat, and explore during your next trip to the Italian Alps!
HOTEL de LEN
Via Cesare Battisti
Located in the heart of the charming Alpine town with renowned ski slopes and scenic hiking trails steps away, HOTEL de LEN offers guests a unique experience that provides the comfort of modern living with an intimate connection to the region’s heritage.
Take in all the views from the spa overlooking the majestic mountains and luscious valleys and cocktails at a hidden bar in an idyllic atmosphere. The hotel offers a unique combination of natural elements and modern technology to achieve a sense of well-being, with 22 different room types spread across five floors designed with simple lines using materials such as Swiss pine – known for aiding sleep quality – and old fir, which carries a calming balsamic scent helping the mind & body to co-exist in balance harmoniously.
San Brite
Località Alverà
San Brite, a Michelin-starred dining retreat in Cortina, perfectly captures the charm of its stunning Ampezzo Dolomites surroundings. Inside this cozy restaurant is an artistic collection of recycled wood with unparalleled views of the Dolomites. Owner-chef Riccardo Gaspari utilizes locally sourced ingredients to create modern meals with rustic roots – most notably highlighted by his exquisite desserts that are crafted without added sugar for authenticity! With “Sanbrite” translating to “healthy pasture” from Italian, diners will surely enjoy a farm-to-table experience.
Baita Pié Tofana
Località Rumerlo
Pié Tofana is a mountain hut that offers a sophisticated blend of modern and traditional cuisine cooked over an open fire. With its spectacular views overlooking the ski area, it’s an ideal place to enjoy exquisite dishes crafted from local ingredients. The unique “Larin” table, one of the restaurant’s more original tables, by the fireplace, creates an intimate ambiance for unique dining experiences all year round!
Aurelio
Passo di Giau
Restaurant Da Aurelio Cortina is a hidden culinary wonder in the Dolomites. Known for its traditional Alpine fare, the restaurant has been a favorite to locals and tourists alike, with unique dishes made from local ingredients since the 1970s. The menu offers delicious risottos, hearty soups, and decadents while enjoying the picturesque snow-capped peaks.
Tivoli
Località Lacedel
Tivoli is a Michelin-starred restaurant in the magical town that offers a spectacular culinary experience. Chef Graziano Prest is renowned for his traditional and innovative dishes that put an unusual twist on classic Italian cuisine – plus, he only sources fresh local ingredients! Fish fanatics are in for a treat as seafood arrives daily from Venice or Chioggia’s fish markets-deliciousness awaits you here! What’s not to love at Tivoli?
Beppe Sello
Località Ronco
Take a step back in time and experience Beppe Sello, known as one of the historical restaurants of the Ampezzo area. Enjoy a selection of refined dishes such as Benfatti alla moda home-made ravioli filled with caciotta cheese and marjoram, served with tomato sauce and basil! Don’t forget to ask for their signature Buon Ricordo dish – order it and you’ll get an exclusive hand-painted ceramic plate as special memento.
El Caminetto
Località Rumerlo
El Caminetto is one of the town’s best restaurants for those looking to take a break from all their skiing adventures or for a charming evening! The restaurant’s interior is cozy and intimate, with a rustic feel that perfectly complements the mountainous surroundings with wooden beams and a warm ambiance. Known for their traditional recipes like spaghetti alla vodka, seafood risottos, and the delicious cod…Delizioso!
El Brite de Larieto
Località Larieto
El Brite de Larieto is where family-style hospitality meets fine Ladin cuisine. The restaurant is a renovated magical farmhouse with an intimate yet inviting setting offering a variety of delicious dishes, including the famous six-month-old speck tartare with cucumber sauce and salted butter ice cream, traditional canederli with melted alpine butter, and Nonna’s stuffed casunziei. Grazie Nonna Annetta!
Shopping on Corso Italia
A beautiful destination between the breathtaking Dolomites and the vibrant Ampezzo Valley offers a unique shopping experience with cobblestone streets lined with stunning art galleries, historic buildings, designer boutiques, and lively cafes, making it the perfect place to explore the best of Italian culture and fashion.
Hike to Lake Sorapis
The hiking trail to Lago di Sorapis leads you through the forest and along steep slopes with views of the mountains of the Dolomites, which is truly unique. The breathtakingly beautiful lake was formed by retreating glaciers in the Dolomite Mountains thousands of years ago, with crystal-clear turquoise waters providing an unforgettable sight.
Ski the Slopes
The Faloria Cable Car is the perfect way to experience Cortina d’Ampezzo’s famous ski slopes. Located steps from HOTEL de LEN, the cable car offers breathtaking views of the valley while taking you up to Mount Faloria’s peak providing easy access to some of the best slopes in Europe. From wide-open slopes perfect for practicing beginners to steep and challenging runs that will test the most experienced skiers, Faloria Cable Car has something for everyone.