Val d’Ega: A magical valley among the UNESCO Dolomites
Val d’Ega, in the heart of the Dolomites, is one of the most fascinating holiday areas in South Tyrol. It stretches between the majestic peaks of the Catinaccio and the Latemar and includes destinations rich in nature and culture: Nova Ponente, Monte San Pietro, Obereggen, Ega, Nova Levante, Carezza, Cornedo-Collepietra, and Tires.
Since 2009, these enchanted mountains have been recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site for their geological and scenic uniqueness.
The Latemar: A giant between science and legend
The Latemar owes its name to the Ladin term “Lac-te-mara”, meaning “crest of Lake Carezza”, and appears in historical records as early as the 12th century. This horseshoe-shaped mountain group alternates between sunny alpine meadows and sheer rock walls, rich in sedimentary layers and marine fossils — evidence of an ancient seabed from the Triassic period.
There are also traces of very ancient volcanic activity, visible in the deep crevices — up to 200 meters — where volcanic rocks emerge.
The main peaks of the Latemar
- Torre Diamanti (2,842 m): the highest peak, named after alpinist Demeter Diamantidi, who climbed its east face in 1892. The first recorded ascent, however, dates back to 1885 by Gustav Euringer.
- Campanili del Latemar, also known as the Latemar Dolls, with their fairytale shapes, are loved by hikers and climbers, especially on the more accessible southern side.
The Catinaccio: Between the enrosadira and the realm of King Laurin
The Catinaccio, or Rosengarten in German, stretches for about 8 km between Val d’Ega, Tires, and Val di Fassa, within the Sciliar-Catinaccio Nature Park. Its name immediately recalls the magic of the enrosadira, the phenomenon that paints its peaks pink and violet at sunrise and sunset.
According to legend, it was here that the enchanted garden of King Laurin was hidden among the rocks.
The legendary peaks of the Catinaccio
- Catinaccio d’Antermoia (3,004 m): the highest summit, first climbed in 1873 by the Englishmen C. Comyn Tucker and T.H. Carson.
- Cima Catinaccio (2,981 m): one of the most famous and scenic peaks, first ascended in 1874.
- Vajolet Towers: six spectacular spires between Passo Vajolet and Passo Re Laurin, a favorite destination for summer via ferratas and thrill-seekers in breathtaking settings.
Winter sports: Two dream ski areas
Those who love snow can enjoy two cutting-edge ski areas set in dreamlike scenery:
Ski Center Latemar – Obereggen
- 48 km of perfectly groomed slopes
- Snowpark, night skiing, and tobogganing
- Fast connections between Obereggen, Pampeago, and Predazzo
Carezza – Nova Levante ski area
- 40 km of slopes among forests and panoramic views
- Sunny runs all day long
- Ski schools for children, snow kindergarten, and Snowpark
- Dreamlike hikes and snowshoeing excursions
Val d’Ega: A world to explore between nature and legend
Val d’Ega is a treasure chest of emotions: among legendary cliffs, snow sports, forest walks, and alpine lakes, each village tells a different story. From the magic of the Catinaccio to the elegance of the Latemar, from historic climbs to modern ski descents, this valley is a dream that renews itself in every season.
Come and see it with your own eyes.
