Dolomites inspiration
Val Gardena, wonder of art and landscape
At high altitude, between peaks designed by the wind
and sculptures carved in wood and ice
Of Camilla Golzi Saporiti
Carved by the wind and brush strokes of colors and reflections that change from dawn to sunset, The peaks of the Sella group, the Sassolungo, the Sassopiatto, the Puez -Orle and the CIR I frame Val Gardena, drawing Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva
In the village, downstream, at altitude, wherever you look, they, thereand DolomitesThere are. Omnipresent, they protect you. Magnetic, they hypnotize you. Unique, they enchant you. Always. The prospects change and surprise you every time with profiles that are natural masterpieces. Even in the rare covered days they manage to attract, arousing the hope that at a certain point the sky will open and the sun will return to illuminate spiers and pinnacles. Beautiful, beautiful, but not only to see: the Dolomites of the Val Gardena are above all to be lived with skiing on the feet, 175 kilometers of slopes traced in a workmanlike manner, connected by latest generation plants, complete with heated seats, and suitable at every level.
If Mount Pana It is ideal for children and beginners, Sasslong is the challenge for adrenaline experts and enthusiasts. And what about the descent that comes to Ortisei from Seceda? With its 10.5 kilometers – it is among the longest of the Dolomites – it gives great satisfaction and great panoramas. Yes, because the beauty in Val Gardena is not “only” to have an infinite number of tracks of your choice – which multiply with direct access to the Sellaronda, thanks to the Dolomiti Superski – but it is also the great beauty of the landscapes that parade under the eyes. The same landscapes that enjoy the windows and the panoramic terraces of the many huts that dot the area.
Not to be missed on the top of the Secedaat 2,410 meters of altitude, Sofie, where the owner Marcus created a wooden jewel furnished in wood and rightly loved for typical cuisine and amazing view on Sassolungo, Sassopiatto, Odle and Alpe di Siusi. Not least Daniel, a hut that conquers with speck cutting boards, cured meats and cheeses served on wooden sleds, but also with dumplings, homemade strudel and other view of the peaks to remove the breath, but not the appetite.
If the dishes are at the altitude are the hymn to the South Tyrolean table, In the stube of the 1700s of the Sumin Star Restaurant, In Selva, they are a work of culinary art. The address – inside the Tyrol hotel, quintessence of charming mountain hospitality – offers a gourmet cuisine with Mediterranean touch, declines in tastings of 5 or 6 courses or à la carte and is the work of Alessandro Martellini.
From the chef’s masterpieces, always in Selva, we move on to the masterpieces of the sculptor Gerhard Demetz. Internationally renowned Gardenese, it carves wood blocks, which then assembles to create sculptures that often portray figures of children with introverted expressions and provocative poses. These sculptures from Selva fly on display in the world. While remaining in Val Gardena, in the center of Ortisei, the ice sculptures of young local artists who, with inspiration and patience, chisels and hammers, carry on tradition, showing it in all its frozen beauty.
Among the recommended hotels, Boutique Hotel Nives, 4 Stars Superior in the center of Selva, with comfortable suite, Spa, a little welcoming staff and garage; Info: www.valgardena.it; www.suedtirol.info