Corvara

Italy

Corvara is the largest of a collection of villages that form the Alta Badia ski area in the heart of the Dolomites.

Not only does it have extensive slopes of its own, but the resort is also on the famous Sella Ronda ski circuit, which links the Alta Badia to various other resorts including Arabba and Selva. 

Transfer time:  Innsbruck 2hr, Verona 2hr45, Venice 2hr45

Corvara is in the Süd-Tirol region of the Italian Dolomites, in north-east Italy. Nearby resorts include Selva, around 30 minutes’ drive to the west of Corvara, and Cortina, an hour or so to the east. 

Resort height:  1570m

Corvara is a sizeable village located at the bottom of a wide valley, surrounded by classically beautiful Dolomite scenery.

Although it can be vibrant at peak times, the atmosphere is more one of quiet sophistication, appealing to those in search of an unfussy yet civilised holiday experience. 

From Corvara you have three main skiing options. The resort’s main local slopes, shared with San Cassiano and La Villa, are extensive, very scenic, and mostly quite easy.

You also have the option of heading off round the Sella Ronda circuit – either towards Arabba (and eventually Selva) in the clockwise direction or more directly to Selva (vial Colfosco) in the other.

The Dolomiti Superski pass also gives access to numerous other ski areas, some connected (e.g. Canazei) others a drive away (e.g. Cortina, Kronplatz). Whatever the case, the extent of slopes on offer is remarkable, and could keep even the keenest of winter sports enthusiasts happy for weeks. 

Our snow rating: ☆☆☆☆☆

Like most of the Dolomites, snow reliability is seriously underrated in Corvara, at least for piste-skiers. Yes, natural snowfall can be erratic, but snow-making is the best in the world, with good snow coverage guaranteed even in the leanest of early seasons.

The best snow quality is often found on the (relatively) high, north-facing, shady slopes of Porto Vescovo above Arabba.

Better still, if you can get there, is the Marmolada glacier (around 60-90 minutes away on skis).

In the event of bad weather or poor visibility, stick to the lower parts of the Alta Badia ski area (Colfosco, Corvara, La Villa, San Cassiano) where there are plenty of trees.

Our rating: ☆☆☆☆☆

The most challenging terrain is in Selva and Arabba, both of which have a number of steep(ish) red and black runs.

Good off-piste opportunities are not obvious though - it is banned in a number of areas – but are possible with a guide. 

Our rating: ☆☆☆☆☆

The entire area is an intermediate’s dream with endless skiing options in all directions. Locally the terrain is best suited to leisurely types who enjoy cruising around on wide, gentle slopes.

For a bit more challenge, head towards the slightly steeper terrain of either Arabba or Selva. 

Our rating: ☆☆☆☆☆

Corvara has good nursery slopes and some excellent long easy blues to progress to, especially around neighbouring Colfosco. 

There are some good cross-country trails dotted around the valley, the best of which are just below Colfosco.

Corvara is an excellent resort for mountain restaurants with an unusually dense concentration of cosy mountain huts in the area between Corvara and San Cassiano.

Recommendations include I Tabla, Ütia de Bioch and Piz Arlara, but there are many more besides. 

Our rating: ☆☆☆☆☆

Corvara has a reasonable range of non-skiing activities, including an ice rink, a toboggan run and indoor tennis courts.

There are also lots of walks and many of the lifts/mountain restaurants are accessible to pedestrians.

Our rating: ☆☆☆☆☆

Immediately after skiing, L’Murin (next to Hotel La Perla) is a popular, lively spot. The Iceberg lounge in the Hotel Col Alto is another good option but, generally speaking, après-ski is in Corvara is quite quiet. 

Corvara has a number of high end dining options including the Michelin-starred Stüa de Michil in the Hotel La Perla and the Taverna in the nearby Hotel Posta Zirm. There are, however, plenty of less fancy options on offer, including the excellent Pizzeria Caterina. 

Corvara and its smaller neighbour Colfosco are home to some of the finest hotels in the Alta Badia. In Corvara, we offer tailor-made luxury ski holidays at the charming and characterful 4 star La Perla, one of the most revered luxury hotels in the Alps, and at the more family-oriented 4 star Hotel Col Alto, with its super-friendly service and fabulous spa.

Prices start from £1495 per person at the Col Alto and £2695 per person at La Perla, including flights, transfer and half board.

If you hate winding mountain roads, try to fly into Innsbruck rather than Venice. The journey from Austria to Corvara is more straightforward!

Considering a luxury ski holiday
or short break in Corvara?

Call us on: +44 (0)20 3397 8450

Email us at: info@snow-wise.com

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