Ortisei: The Beating Heart of Val Gardena

Ortisei is the main town of Val Gardena, nestled in a charming hollow between the Resciesa Hut and the Alpe di Siusi, framed by the majestic Dolomite peaks. This village, at 1,236 meters above sea level, is a perfect destination all year round, offering postcard-worthy landscapes and cutting-edge facilities for both winter and summer sports.

A Lively Town of Art and Tradition

Strolling through the center of Ortisei means immersing yourself in a picturesque atmosphere: winding streets, beautifully decorated buildings, historic hotels, and artisan workshops displaying carved wooden artworks — a true symbol of Gardena’s identity. Not surprisingly, Ortisei is known worldwide as the capital of woodcarving and preserves a long artistic tradition that still thrives in its studios today.

The vibrant pedestrian area is perfect for shopping, with elegant boutiques and traditional shops offering authentic wooden souvenirs. Ortisei is also the birthplace of famous figures such as mountaineer and filmmaker Luis Trenker and musician Giorgio Moroder, a true pioneer of electronic music.

Holy Sites and Cultural Heritage

Ortisei is home to some of the most important religious buildings in the valley. Just above the town stands the Church of San Giacomo, the oldest in Val Gardena, dating back to the 12th century and featuring today an elegant blend of Gothic and Baroque styles, set in a fairy-tale landscape.

In the heart of the town, on the main square, rises the Parish Church of Saint Ulrich, a splendid example of Baroque architecture and the center of local religious and cultural life. Completing the cultural offering is the Val Gardena Museum, where visitors can explore the history, art, and traditions of this ancient Ladin valley.

Ortisei is a perfect blend of natural beauty, Ladin culture, and Alpine hospitality — a place to visit, experience, and remember.