- Hop on the Seceda Gondola and discover hundreds of walking trails
- Scope out traditional wood carved sculptures in the town
- Learn some of the local dialect, Ladin
Ortisei – or Urtijëi, as it’s better known in the local language of Ladin – is a Tyrolean town in the heart of the Val Gardena. This is a community that’s forged Olympic bobsledders, skiers and figure skaters – outdoorsy folk who don’t stop just because the snow has melted off the mountains. Instead, they spend their summers on the walking and cycling paths. On you summer holiday in Ortisei, you’ll be welcomed by a close-knit community, famous for its woodcarving tradition – who will take any excuse for a get-together in one of the many cafés and bars.
Walking holidays in Ortisei
Hop on the Seceda gondola which carries walkers and explorers from Ortisei all the way to the summit of Seceda Mountain. There’s no need to do anything but marvel at the views over the shard-like Odle peaks. But, if you do fancy stretching your legs, miles of walking paths wind through alpine wildflowers and past mountain huts with sun-trap decks. There are also routes down to some of the best mountain biking tracks in the Val Gardena; the opportunities are endless for your summer walking holiday.
Call me Urtijëi: getting to know Ortisei on your summer holiday
There are plenty of things to do to keep you busy in Ortisei town. The pedestrianised centre is a sweep of arcaded shops, restaurants, churches and cafés, all bundled up in a colourful alpine palette. Friday evenings are when the streets really come alive, with diners digging into all manner of food and drink from pizzas and gröstl dumplings to Michelin-starred menus late into the night, while bands get toes tapping in the summer. Most of the residents speak Ladin as their first language, so it’s a great idea to learn a few words… and to call Ortisei by its Ladin name of Urtijëi.
Tradition in the Dolomites: never too early for a Nativity set
If you think your summer holiday is a strange time to stock up on Nativity sets, then think again. Master woodcarvers have been chipping away in Ortisei since the 15th century, passing on skills through the generations. It’s a revered and sacred art in this neck of the woods (pine woods, to be exact), filling churches with decadent altar pieces and shop shelves with souvenir Nativity sets. Go to Gherdëina museum for a whistle-stop tour through the history of woodcarving.
Exploring nearby towns: buses to Bolzano and beyond
Buses connect the villages of the Alto Adige. Drop by the neighbouring town of Selva, the high-rise rose gardens of Rosarium Uhrerhof, and Puez-Geisler Nature Park, with its lovely hiking loops and mountain huts with iconic Dolomite views. Buses also head to Bolzano, the provincial capital of South Tyrol. It’s a university city with a cathedral, galleries, squares and parks, all topped off with a lively mountain spirit.
Why book a summer holiday in Ortisei with Inghams?
Experience the freedom of flexible walking holidays in Ortisei with Inghams. With no fixed itineraries and no moving around each night, you can simply unpack, settle in, and explore at your own pace.
- With 90 years of travel experience, we know how to take the hassle out of your holiday to Ortisei
- Flights, transfers, and accommodation are included in every holiday package
- We’re with you every step of the way with insider knowledge and tailored support from our Destination Experts during your holiday
- During your stay you’ll have access to our Digital Resort Guides, which are packed with self-guided walks, things to do and useful information for your Ortisei holiday
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