CALM PLACIDLY UNVEILS ITS AMAZINES …

The Dolomites…

The Dolomites offer a “buffet” of jagged limestone peaks and world-class skiing that is as rich and varied as the Ladin cuisine found in its mountain huts. From the high-altitude glacier of the Marmolada to the hidden valleys of Lagazuoi, these are the 10 must-see spots and the “lines” that define them.

1. Lagazuoi: The Armentarola (The Hidden Valley)

Often called the most beautiful ski run in the world, the Armentarola starts at the peak of Lagazuoi (2,752m).

The Line: An 8.5km red run that winds through a “hidden valley” of vertical rock walls and towering frozen waterfalls.
The Finale: The run ends with a unique horse-drawn tow, where skiers grab ropes behind a sleigh to be pulled back toward Alta Badia.

2. Marmolada: La Bellunese (The Queen’s Descent)

As the highest peak in the Dolomites (3,342m), the Marmolada glacier offers a regal skiing experience.

The Line: La Bellunese is a 12km legendary descent—the longest in the Dolomites. It drops nearly 1,900m in vertical from Punta Rocca down to Malga Ciapela, offering vast, open views of the surrounding UNESCO peaks.

3. Tofana di Mezzo: Forcella Rossa (The Red Couloir)

Cortina d’Ampezzo, the “Queen of the Dolomites,” is the glamorous stage for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

The Line: For the expert, Forcella Rossa is an aesthetic masterpiece. It is a steep, narrow black run sandwiched between the massive rock walls of the Tofane massif.
Pro Tip: If you are a freerider, the Bus de Tofana is a bucket-list off-piste line that passes through a massive natural rock arch.

4. Val Gardena: The Saslong (World Cup Heritage)

Val Gardena is a hub of tradition and high-speed thrills.

The Line: The Saslong is a World Cup downhill classic. Expert skiers can test their legs on the “Camel Humps,” where professionals can jump up to 80 meters.
The Vibe: It ends in Santa Cristina, right at the foot of the iconic Sassolungo mountain.

5. Alta Badia: Gran Risa (The Technical Giant)

If Val Gardena is for speed, Alta Badia is for precision and “gourmet” skiing.

The Line: The Gran Risa in La Villa is one of the most technical giant slalom runs on the World Cup circuit.
The Terrain: It is steep (up to 69% gradient), north-facing, and often icy, winding through a dense forest that keeps the snow firm all day.

6. Sella Massif: Val Mezdi (The Valley of Noon)

The Sella Massif is the geographic heart of the Dolomites, famous for the Sellaronda loop.

The Line: For those seeking a “raw” experience, Val Mezdi is the ultimate off-piste itinerary.
The Descent: This deep limestone canyon cuts through the center of the Sella plateau, requiring a guide and stable snow conditions to navigate its steep, narrow passages.

7. 3 Zinnen: Holzriese (The Steepest in Italy)

The 3 Zinnen (Three Peaks) region offers a quieter, wilder feel near the Austrian border.

The Line: The Holzriese run is Italy’s steepest groomed slope, boasting a 71% gradient. It is a short, sharp adrenaline hit that requires perfect edge control.

8. Seceda: The Longia (The Scenic Ridgeline)

The view from the Seceda ridgeline toward the Odle peaks is perhaps the most photographed spot in the Alps.

The Line: The Longia is a 10.5km scenic cruiser that starts at the Seceda summit and winds through canyons and past frozen waterfalls all the way down to Ortisei.

9. Cinque Torri: The Great War Tour

The “Five Towers” are a cluster of unique rock pillars that served as a frontline in WWI.

The Line: This isn’t just one run, but a historical circuit. You ski between open-air museums of trenches and bunkers, with the majestic peaks of Lagazuoi and Civetta as your backdrop.

10. Kronplatz: Sylvester (The Endless Burn)

Kronplatz is a distinct, cone-shaped mountain providing 360-degree views of the Alps.

The Line: Sylvester is one of the “Black 5” runs at Kronplatz. It is a long, relentlessly steep black run that descends nearly 1,300m vertical meters back to the valley floor at Bruneck.