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Hello, friends! Today I want to tell you about a place that has stolen a piece of our hearts: the Marmolada in the Dolomites.
A place where the word " spectacular " doesn't even begin to describe it. So, buckle up, because we're going to Marmolada Dolomites . In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know so you don't miss a thing in this incredible place that we enjoyed during our family 's 10-day Dolomites road trip in a campervan.
About us
We are the Kucavana family , and we travel with our two children and our adopted dog, Max. We usually travel in our motorhome, also called Kucavana, hence the name of our blog (as a baby, Anna couldn't pronounce "motorhome" and said "Kucavana"). But we also enjoy traveling by bicycle, by plane, and backpacking—the point is to have adventures as a family. The one writing this is me, Pilar, the mom of the family and perhaps the craziest one. I enjoy every new experience we have as a family, and I hope to help you enjoy traveling as much as we do.
To stay connected with you, follow us on our social media channels: YouTube and Instagram
The Marmolada of the Dolomites what is it
Marmolada , the highest mountain in the Dolomites, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Its highest peak , Punta Penia , rises to 3343 meters above sea level. Famous for its ski slopes, it offers much more than just skiing. It's a gem that truly shines in winter, with a wealth of attractions beyond just skiing.
| Appearance | Description |
| Location | Rocca Pietore, Dolomites |
| Altitude | 3343 meters above sea level |
| Famous for | Ski slopes, impressive views, World War I Museum, Sottoguda one of the most beautiful towns in Italy... and much more that you will soon discover in this article... keep reading! |
How to get to the Marmolada in Dolomites
Marmolada Italia is located in the territory of Rocca Pietore, its main town, right in the heart of the Dolomites, a World Heritage Site.
In own vehicle
From Barcelona, it is 1300 km and almost 12,5 hours of driving, but every kilometer is worth it! And if you have winter wheels it is worth bringing your vehicle in winter. In Italy they do not rent cars with winter wheels.
| Origin | Destination | Distance and Time |
| Barcelona | Marmolada, Italy | Approx. 1300 km / 14 hours of driving |
In this case, we don't recommend taking the ferry . From Barcelona you can go to Civitavecchia by ferry, but the journey takes almost 24 hours, and then you'll still have to drive for 8 hours.
To get to the Marmolada in the Dolomites by plane, you will first have to fly to one of the nearby airports in northern Italy.
By plane + rental car
The closest airports are usually Venice, Verona, Bolzano, or Innsbruck in Austria. From the airport, you can rent a car. The choice of airport and mode of transport may depend on your starting point, budget, and travel preferences. If you're arriving at an airport in Germany or Austria in winter, the good news is that even though the distance is greater, rental cars are equipped with winter tires. In Italy, as in Spain, they usually only offer snow chains.
A tip: Don't travel without travel insurance . Avoid medical co-payments, have a doctor just a click away on your app, have a lawyer specializing in any issues that might arise during your trip, and avoid unpleasant surprises like cancellations or incidents along your route. The travel insurance that has convinced us the most for family travel so far is Iati Familia. Its price and coverage are ideal for traveling within Spain, Europe, and beyond. It covers everything on your trip, not just essential medical needs with 24-hour access to a doctor and pediatrician via the app's chat . I've included a discount they'll give you at the end of your quote request.
Why visit the Marmolada Dolomites
Visiting the Marmolada in the Dolomites is like stepping into a living postcard. It's a place where nature speaks and we listen in silence, marveling at its grandeur.
You can't miss the Marmolada. Not only is it the highest mountain in the Dolomites, making it the best viewpoint in the range, but you'll also find history, dreamy paths surrounded by nature, charming villages, and unbeatable local cuisine in its valley.
What to see and do in the Marmolada Dolomites and its Rocca Pietore valley
Video summary of what to do and what to see in La Marmolada
Take the Marmolada cable car to Punta Rocca
From Malga Ciapela , with your skis on, you can reach one of the Marmolada's great peaks, Punta Rocca , in 12 minutes, thanks to the Marmolada Dolomites cable car . The view from the top is like holding the sky in your hands.
| Activity | Description |
| Marmolada Cable Car to Punta Rocca in Malga Ciapela | Access to the top of the Marmolada Dolomites in 12 min |
When you go up to Punta Rocca you can visit part of the panoramic terrace and the cave-chapel that houses the statue of the Virgin. Consecrated by Pope John Paul II. An exceptional place.
And if you're on skis , from the Punta Roca stop of the Marmolada cable car you can begin your descent to the historic "La Bellunese" ski run . This 12 km long run, with a vertical drop of 1.810 m, leads back down to the base of the Malga Ciapèla cable car. It was on this run that the "Gigantissimo della Marmolada," the first slalom race in skiing history, took place in 1935.
Visit the Museum of the Great War in the Marmolada Dolomites, the highest in Europe
Europe's highest museum tells stories that will thrill you. It's located in the Marmolada in the Dolomites, at an altitude of 2950 meters , to be exact, on the slopes of the Marmolada glacier , amidst rock and ice. And every corner tells a piece of history.
To get there you have to take the Marmolada cable car from Malga Ciapela, the same one that goes to Punta Rocca, but getting off at the Serauta stop at 2950 meters.
The museum has an indoor and an outdoor section . In winter, the outdoor area of the museum, which includes the trenches and walkways of the Monumental Sacred Zone, is closed.
The museum's interior houses a collection of tools and clothing found in the Marmolada and neighboring towns from World War I. The exhibit aims to highlight the suffering of the soldiers who fought in this frigid region, on both the Italian and Austrian sides.
Discover the traditional crafts of Sottoguda, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy
In Sottoguda, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy , a small hamlet belonging to Rocca Pietore, in the valley formed by the Marmolada, you will find small handmade jewels that reflect the culture and tradition of the Dolomite region.
Known for its picturesque narrow streets and old stone houses, Sottoguda offers a peaceful and authentic atmosphere.
It is famous for its natural canyon, Serrai di Sottoguda , one of the most beautiful in Europe, which attracts ice climbers in winter and nature lovers year-round. This canyon, currently closed to the public, will reopen in the summer of 2024. In winter, this stunning canyon allows for an incredible descent from Malga Ciapela to Sottoguda on skis, while climbers scale the ice of its waterfalls.
In addition, the town is known for its wrought iron and wood craftsmanship, keeping local traditions alive.
Don't miss these two iron and wood craft shops :
Sottoguda is an ideal starting point for exploring the region's hiking trails and ski slopes. Becoming an essential destination for any traveler visiting the Dolomites.
Taste the local Ladin delicacies of the Marmolada Dolomites
For lunch, local shelters and restaurants await you with delicacies such as 'casunziei' and the special 'pastin'.
And don't forget the staple to finish!
| Ladin plate | Description |
| Casunziei | Crescent-shaped ravioli, typically filled with red beet and ricotta, served with melted butter and sprinkled with poppy or parmesan cheese. |
| dumplings | Balls of seasoned bread, mixed with milk, eggs, and sometimes speck or cheese, cooked in broth or served with butter and cheese. |
| Speck | Tyrolean smoked cured ham, with a distinctive flavor and smoky aroma, often served as an antipasto or used in cooking to flavor various dishes. |
| Polenta | A basic dish made of cooked cornmeal, often served with cheese, mushrooms, or meat. It can be creamy or hardened and then roasted or fried. |
| Barley Soup | A comforting soup made with barley, vegetables, and sometimes meat, typical of the region and known for being nutritious and comforting. |
| Goulash | A spicy meat stew, native to Hungary but popular in the Dolomites, often prepared with paprika, tomatoes, and onions. |
| Strangolapreti | Spinach gnocchi, often mixed with breadcrumbs and cheese, cooked and served with butter and Parmesan cheese. |
| Tutres | Dumplings filled with spinach, cottage cheese or cabbage, traditionally steamed and served with melted butter. |
| Apple strudel | A popular dessert, puff pastry filled with apples, raisins, sugar and cinnamon, heritage of the Austrian influence in the region. |
| Grappa | Brandy distilled from the pomace of grapes, a strong and clear drink, often enjoyed after meals as a digestive. |
Recipes from Rocca Pietore and the Marmolada in Dolomites
The traditional recipes of Rocca Pietore are simple but valuable, today rediscovered by prestigious restaurants and based on pure ingredients such as game and mountain cheeses.
' Casunziei ' are an emblematic example, crescent-shaped ravioli typically filled with ricotta and melted butter, although they can also contain spinach, potatoes, or the tasty wild herbs known as "grìsoi" or "gaméita".
Another distinctive dish of the region is 'balao balòte' , pastries filled with speck, spinach and cheese, which are served with stew, in broth or with cabbage salad.
Speck is a type of cured ham that comes mainly from the Tyrol region, in northern Italy and Austria. It is known for its distinctive flavor that combines smoking and air curing techniques.
As for the desserts, the 'fiorostido', the 'fortresses', and the 'tortilla de pom', delicious apple fritters, stand out.
The culinary experience is completed with the traditional grappa, a traditional Italian brandy,
Grappa, also known as grappa, is a traditional Italian brandy distilled from pomace, the residue of pressed grapes used in winemaking, including the skins, seeds, and stems. It is flavored with herbs and wild fruits such as cumin, mountain pine, juniper, blueberries, and wild strawberries, representing the essence of Rocca Pietore's gastronomy.
Enjoy alpine skiing in the most privileged place in the Dolomites: Marmolada ski yes or yes
For ski lovers, here's Marmolada Ski , where the winter season offers adrenaline-filled curves with breathtaking views.
There are two main ski resorts in the queen of the Dolomites:
| Ski resort | Description |
| Marmolada – Malga Ciapela | The most direct access point to the Marmolada, known for the Bellunese track, one of the longest and most spectacular in the Dolomites that descends from the highest point below in 12 km and 1800 meters of elevation gain. It offers stunning views and challenging descents. |
| Arabba | Part of the famous Sella Ronda, Arabba is known for its technical and challenging slopes, as well as its access to extensive ski areas in the Dolomites. |
The Arabba-Marmolada ski resort , part of the Dolomiti Superski, is recognized as one of the most impressive areas in the Dolomites for its panoramic views.
From the terrace of Punta Rocca, accessible via the advanced cable car from Malga Ciapela , views are revealed that reach as far as Venice and the Austrian Alps on clear days.
The Marmolada – Move to the Top cable car in Malga Ciapela whisks you to the highest peak in the Dolomites, where the Bellunese slope awaits , the longest in the region and a jewel of the alpine range for its beauty. Imagine descending from the 3265m summit of Punta Rocca, traversing a vertical drop of over 1800m along 12km of slopes: skiing here is an unparalleled experience, a dance with the "Queen of the Dolomites."
Sellaronda Ski Tour
From Malga Ciapèla, skiers can also embark on the Sellaronda Ski Tour , a route that stands out among the most spectacular of the Dolomiti Superski.
| Appearance | Details of the Sellaronda Ski Tour |
| Location | It surrounds the Sella massif in the Dolomites, northern Italy, connecting Val Gardena, Val di Fassa, Alta Badia and Arabba. |
| Type of Tour | Circular, allowing skiers to circle the Sella massif in one day using a series of lifts and ski slopes. |
| Distance and Time | Approximately 40 kilometers in total, 26 of which are ski slopes. It is typically completed in 5 to 6 hours, including time for skiing and taking the lifts. Variable time depending on the skier's ability. |
| Locations | Two directions: orange (clockwise) and green (anti-clockwise). Both offer spectacular views and access to various slopes. |
| Accessibility | Suitable for skiers of intermediate ability. Requires good physical condition due to the length of the route. |
| Landscapes and Experience | It offers stunning views of the Dolomites and the opportunity to visit cozy alpine huts. An immersive experience that combines sport, nature and culture. |
| Meaning | More than a ski route, it is a panoramic adventure that attracts skiers from all over the world to experience the beauty of the Dolomites in winter. |
Great War Tour
For history buffs, the evocative Great War Tour runs through this area, offering a skiing experience that blends sport and culture. And for aspiring skiers, the Marmolada Ski School in Malga Ciapela provides an ideal environment to learn and enjoy the snow safely.
| Appearance | Detail of the Great War of the Dolomites Tour |
| Location | Tour the Dolomites, passing through significant World War I areas such as Marmolada, Pelmo, Civetta, and others. |
| Type of Tour | Circular, allowing skiers to experience a journey through history and nature. |
| Distance and Time | It varies, but is generally a full-day tour, depending on the skier's abilities and specific route conditions. |
| Locations | Generally, you follow a path marked with specific signs that guide skiers through the slopes and lifts that are part of the tour. |
| Accessibility | Suitable for skiers with intermediate to advanced skills due to the length and complexity of some sections. |
| Landscapes and Experience | It offers stunning views of the Dolomites and the opportunity to see historic sites from the First World War. Skiers can learn about history through museums and monuments along the way. |
| Meaning | It is an educational and commemorative ski trip, which not only challenges skiers physically, but also provides a deep understanding of the historical events that took place in the mountains during the Great War, connecting the sport with the historical memory of the region. |
And for beginners, remember that the Marmolada Ski School in Malga Cipela is always available.
Take a snowshoe excursion in Marmolada
Snowshoeing excursions in the Rocca Pietore region are becoming an essential experience for those wishing to immerse themselves in the serenity and beauty of the Marmolada winter landscape in the Dolomites. These activities not only offer a unique opportunity to connect intimately with unspoiled nature but are also a wonderful and accessible alternative for those who don't ski or are simply looking for a change of pace from the traditional slopes.
Using snowshoes allows you to walk through deep snow without sinking, opening up a world of calm, slow-paced exploration. It is an exceptional way to absorb the fresh winter air, while you immerse yourself in the magical silence of snowy forests and discover hidden corners and spectacular panoramas that often remain invisible to skiers.
The Rocca Pietore area is brimming with enticing routes that traverse these breathtaking alpine landscapes. Val Franzei, Val Franzedaz, and Bramezza are just a few of the captivating trails available for snowshoeing adventurers. Each route offers its own unique collection of natural wonders, from tranquil valleys and icy streams to dense forests and panoramic views of the Marmolada, the "Queen of the Dolomites."
Table summary of main snowshoe routes
| Route Name | Brief description | Difficulty level | Approximate Distance |
| Route Val Franzei | A beautiful drive through the Franzei Valley, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. | Moderate | 10 km |
| Route Val Franzedaz | A quiet and picturesque route ideal for lovers of nature and photography. | Easy | 8 km |
| Bramezza Route | Explore the Bramezza area with this route that takes you through forests and snowy fields. | Hard | 12 km |
| Malga Ciapela Route | Enjoy a relaxing excursion around Malga Ciapela, perfect for beginners. | Easy | 5 km |
Furthermore, for those seeking a truly unique experience, the local consortium organizes nighttime snowshoeing excursions. These guided tours, led by expert alpine guides, will take you through the stillness of the winter night, under starry skies and surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of the Dolomites. Imagine the tranquility of the night as you walk along trails illuminated only by moonlight and headlamps—a truly unforgettable experience.
More information at: https://www.visitmarmolada.com/eventi/#/eventi/TRN/1095ae33-5452-4e36-af38-2582e9b1780b/escursioni-serali-con-le-ciaspe
Nordic skiing in Marmolada
Cross-country skiing, or Nordic skiing, is an ancient discipline originating in the Nordic countries of Europe that has found a special place in the hearts of sports enthusiasts in the Dolomites. This practice is not only a sport, but also a traditional and harmonious way to explore and enjoy the winter landscapes, combining physical exercise with a deep connection to nature.
In the Rocca Pietore area, near the majestic Marmolada in the Dolomites, cross-country skiing enthusiasts will find a true paradise.
Here, there are three cross-country ski trails of varying difficulty , designed to accommodate both beginners and advanced skiers. These trails are not only a place for exercise and personal enjoyment, but also the training ground for the local ski club, Marmolada Nordic Ski.
The main rink is conveniently located in Malga Ciapela , right next to the cable car station . What makes it even more appealing is that access is free , as it's set up alongside the team's training sessions, offering everyone the chance to experience this traditional sport in a spectacular setting.
Summary table of Nordic ski slopes in the Marmolada Dolomites
| Appearance | Detail on Cross Country Skiing near the Marmolada Dolomites |
| Slopes at Rocca Pietore | The area has 3 slopes of different levels of difficulty in Malga Ciapela, next to the cable car exit. These slopes are used by both amateurs and members of the MARMOLADA NORDIC SKI Ski Club, an association dedicated to cultivating and transmitting the passion for cross-country skiing. |
| Access to the Tracks | Access to the slopes is free, as they are prepared in parallel with the MARMOLADA NORDIC SKI team's training sessions. This offers an excellent opportunity for everyone to experience the sport in a spectacular setting. |
| Experience Offered | Practicing cross-country skiing in this area allows visitors to enjoy the winter beauty of the Dolomites, improve techniques, and immerse themselves in a stunning natural environment. It is a unique opportunity to combine physical exercise with a deep connection with nature, whether seeking tranquility or a new and exciting sporting adventure. |
If the idea of gliding through snowy landscapes with stunning views of the Dolomite peaks appeals to you, cross-country skiing at Rocca Pietore offers an unparalleled experience. Whether you are looking to improve your technique, enjoy a quiet day in the snow, or simply try something new and exciting, the slopes near Marmolada are waiting to offer you a Nordic adventure that you will not forget.
Where to sleep in the Marmolada Dolomites
Here is a summary table of the accommodations available in Rocca Pietore - Marmolada:
| Type of accommodation | Description |
| Hotels | They range from budget-friendly to luxurious options. Often run by local families, they offer amenities like restaurants, spas, and ski access. Ideal for those looking for comfort and services during their stay. |
| Bed and Breakfasts/Guest Houses | Smaller establishments that offer a cozy and personalized atmosphere. Perfect for a close experience with local culture and enjoying homemade breakfasts. |
| Vacation Apartments | They provide flexibility and space, ideal for families or groups who prefer a home environment with the option of cooking. |
| Mountain Refuges (Rifugios) | Located at higher altitudes, they offer direct access to trails and ski slopes with stunning views. They are an excellent choice for adventurers who want an immersive mountain experience. |
| Agriturismos | Working farm accommodations allow guests to experience rural life and enjoy meals using farm-fresh ingredients. Ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with nature and local culture. |
Each type of accommodation in Rocca Pietore offers a unique perspective and experience for enjoying the natural and cultural beauty of the Marmolada region. From the comfort of hotels to the authenticity of mountain refuges, there are options to suit every traveler's needs and preferences.
For a complete experience and to see all available accommodations, visit www.visitamarmolada.com and find the perfect accommodation for you.
Official tourism websites about the Marmolada Dolomites
For any questions about this area, do not forget to visit the websites of the official organizations in this area:
https://www.visitmarmolada.com/
https://www.provincia.belluno.it/home
Well, friends, this has only been a glimpse of what La Marmolada has to offer. Ready to discover more? See you on the slopes! And remember, La Marmolada isn't just a place, it's an experience you'll cherish forever!
Until the next adventure!
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Brvi Kucavana!