Located in the heart of the Stelvio National Park, Santa Caterina Valfurva is one of the favourite destinations for winter sports lovers, and not only, in Lombardy. Only 13 km from Bormio and 202 km from Milan, this ski resort is easily accessible by car.
Whether you are a winter sports enthusiast or not, you are sure to find a wide choice of activities in Santa Caterina that can be practised in both winter and summer! Let’s take a look at the top 10 things to do in Santa Caterina Valfurva.
1. Skiing in Santa Caterina Valfurva
Home of the great Deborah Compagnoni, Santa Caterina is a paradise for ski and snowboard lovers. With 35 km of slopes for all tastes, it is possible to ski both day and night. The snow cover, thanks to the efficient snowmaking system, is always in perfect condition throughout the season, from the end of November to April. For children, however, there is the Treadmill area where they can learn to ski safely with the instructors of the ski and snowboard school.
2.Ice climbing in Molinelli
A special sport, but within everyone’s reach if tackled by experts, Ice Climbing, that is climbing on the ice, is an experience worth trying in Santa Caterina Valfurva. For those who are totally new to this discipline and would like to give it a try, the Bormio Mountain Guides are on hand to share the fascination and beauty of this sport with you!
3. Ice skating in the centre of Santa Caterina Valfurva
Santa Caterina certainly has no shortage of outdoor ice-skating rinks. It is a perfect activity for those who want to enjoy an outdoor day of sport and music. The track is open daily from Monday to Sunday until the end of the season.
4. Dining in a mountain hut at high altitude
In this beautiful mountain resort, it is impossible not to include dining in a mountain hut at high altitude. Definitely one of the most suggestive experiences that the mountains offer, apart from skiing. There are many options to choose from in and around Santa Caterina Valfurva, and we recommend: Rifugio Sci 2000, Rifugio Paradiso and Rifugio Stella Alpina.
5. Ski touring in Europe’s largest ski area
Santa Caterina is part of the largest ski mountaineering area in Europe! Do you want to come here and not have a great outing with the skins and powder skiing? The mountain guides in the area are always available to accompany their clients and provide useful advice and tips on how to make the most of the experience.
6. Getting lost in the snowy paths of Santa Caterina Valfurva
For those who are not keen on skiing, Santa Caterina Valfurva offers many routes that can be followed on foot or perhaps with snowshoes to let yourself be lulled by nature. For those who love mountains and snow, this resort is a true paradise. Snow is the star in winter and walking in the woods listening to the sounds of nature will be an unforgettable experience. In the company of mountain guides, it is also possible to participate in night hikes to enjoy the fascination of the moon.
7. Experiencing Nordic skiing
The Pista Valtellina is among the best known cross-country skiing trails in the area. It covers a large area at an altitude of 1,800 m and features 5 and 10 km routes. Definitely a track suitable for experts, because it is very demanding. In any case, in Santa Caterina it is possible to find Nordic skiing slopes that are also suitable for beginners. The Centro Fondo La Fonte is a reference point for fans of the sport. Here you can store your equipment and change in the comfortable changing rooms.
8. Spend a relaxing day at the Bagni Vecchi e Nuovi in Bormio
Being only 13 km from Bormio, from Santa Caterina you can go and enjoy a beautiful day at the the spa just a few kilometres from the town. In Bormio there are Bagni Vecchi and Bagni Nuovitwo of the most famous spas in Italy, where you can treat yourself to a full day of relaxation.
9. Exploring the Ortles- Cevedale Alpine Group
Valfurva is located within the Ortles-Cevedale alpine range, which contains the largest glacier in the Italian Alps, the Forni glacier. Along the valley, one comes across several villages, each of which still retains interesting historical centres and places linked to the local culture. Santa Caterina is, among these, the tourist resort par excellence, but other centres are certainly worth mentioning. A visit to Uzza and Teregua, San Nicolò, Madonna dei Monte and San Gottardo and Sant’Antonio are all worthwhile.
10. Discovering Santa Caterina Valfurva by fat-bike or e-bike
A sport that is very much in vogue lately that combines the mountains and a passion for bikes, namely fat-bikes. They are bikes with special, very thick tyres that are able to slide easily on snow. In Santa Caterina it is possible to rent these bikes and ride safely accompanied by local guides. You will walk along snowy paths through the forests and reach the best alpine huts for a special break. It is possible to do this activity both during the day and at night, always accompanied by guides.
