AS THE season in Cortina d’Ampezzo draws to a close, skiers and snowboarders can still make the most of the fresh snowfalls which have created fabulous spring skiing conditions.
Anyone making last minute bookings to the Queen of the Dolomites, which claims to be Italy’s most fashionable resort, will be well rewarded.
The Dolomites provide natural romantic settings. Photo: DG Bandion/Cortina d’Ampezzo.
There is even a way to stay in Cortina that means never having to leave the slopes even when the lifts close – and that means you get first tracks, as soon after sun-up as you like, without having to catch a lift.
Cortina has several mountain refuges where you can watch the sun go down, sleep in comfort and be up to enjoy first tracks before most skiers and snowboarders down in the valleys have even had breakfast.
This is the perfect time of the season to spend nights in a refuge in this enchanting area of the Italian Dolomites. Many of the mountain huts offer accommodation ranging from comfortable to surprisingly luxurious, with excellent cuisine available.
It’s possible to spend one night up on the slopes as a special treat, stay several nights at one refuge, or put together a tour of several huts. It is a very special experience to be able to hit the slopes in the early morning sun even before the lifts have opened.
Great mountain huts to stay in for first tracks in the Cinque Torri area include Rifugio Averau and Rifugio Scoiattoli.
Rifugio Averau has rooms with private bathroom and TV and balconies with stupendous views, including those of the Civetta and Marmolada.
There’s even a sauna at Rifugio Lagazuoi. Photo: Guido Pompanin/Cortina d’Ampezzo.
For larger groups there are dormitories offering six or 10 beds, all provided with bedding and towels. Ski rooms have ski-boot warmer and slippers are provided for guests. There’s even a laundry for the use of visitors. Half board, based on two in a double room, is €115 per person.
In Rifugio Scoiattoli, you can enjoy wonderful food, amazing views of the famous Cinque Torri and the chance to enjoy the sunset while soaking in a hot tub on the deck.
At Rifugio Lagazuoi you can sleep at 2,800m and enjoy Europe’s highest altitude sauna. The refuge is also at the top of the magical ‘Hidden Valley’ Armentarola run.
The sheer cliffs and frozen waterfalls make it one of the most beautiful runs in the Alps.
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Watch the sun go down from the hot tub at Rifugio Scoiattoli. Photo: D G Bandion/Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Categories: Italy