Cross-Country Skiing Val di Fiemme

A winter sports panorama

Val di Fiemme, one of Italy's largest cross-country skiing areas, is located inj the heart of the Italian Dolomites. 150 kilometers (93 miles) of trails stretch across various types of landscape, ample meadows as well as calm pine forests being only two examples of these. Whether you're new to cross-country skiing or more advanced already, you will find the route suited best for you on trails that have hosted numerous world championships. Although Val di Fiemme is famous for its cross-country centers Passo Lavazè and Lago di Tesero, the routes of Maricialonga and Bellamonte are also highly recommended. Reaching heights of up to 2,000 meters (6562 feet), the area offers some great views of the surrounding regions during the season from December until April. For those looking to improve their technique, several cross-country schools are located in Val die Fiemme.

The cross-country center of Passo di Lavazè

In the midst of the Dolomites and the Latemar mountain range, 85 kilometers (53 miles) of groomed trails can be found around the sunny area at Passo di Lavazè.  Heights of 1600 meters up to 2150 meters (5249 feet up to 7054 feet) offer ideal snow conditions for fans of nordic winter sports. Beginners and experts alike will find trails suited to their abilities and it is not unlikely to encounter nationally or internationally renowned athletes along the way. The connection to Passo di Oclini, located a little above Passo di Lavazè, offers even more opportunities for different routes. Emergency phones along the trail as well as a ski waxing service and changing rooms are available to the cross-country skiers.

The World Championship center of Lago di Tesero

Feel like one of the world's best at the cross-country center of Lago di Tesero, venue of Nordic Ski World Championships in 1991, 2003 and 2013. Its roughly 18 kilometers (11 miles) of trail, which can be covered by artificial snow-making if needed, make for a great cross-country experience, both for classic cross-country skiing and skating. Activities that are definitely worth a try are nighttime skiing, which is offered twice a week, and a laser shooting range for all biathlon fans. Showers, changing rooms, a ski waxing room, a ski rental service, an ice skating rink as well as a restaurant can also be found on site. 

Cross-country skiing events at Val di Fiemme

Val di Fiemme has and continues to host several cross-country events, some of them very prestigious. As mentioned, it has been the setting for the Nordic Ski World Championships three times and the Tour de Ski has stops here regularly. In 2026, it will even be hosting the Winter Olympic Games! For many years, Passo Lavazè has been hosting the Lavazeloppet, an international race in free technique. It is the pioneer for the most famous winter sport event in Val di Fiemme: the Marcialonga. Cross-country fans from around the world travel here to watch the athletes on their 70 kilometer (43 mile) long journey from Moena to Canazei and back. The cross-country skiers are celebrated enthusiastically upon crossing the finish line. Those who choose the easier run still have to overcome 45 kilometers (28 miles) of trail.

The Marcialonga trail

The most legendary trail of Val di Fiemme is 16.4 kilometers (10.2 miles) long and reaches from Predazzo to Molina di Fiemme across the entire valley. The route is on an intermediate level and connected to the World Championship center Lago di Tesero.

Several traditional huts can be found on the alms along the tracks, offering regional specialties. They are a great way for cross-country skiers to restore their energy before returning to the trails. 

By car: Coming from Brixen/Bolzano or Trent, take the A22 until the exit Neumarkt/Auer/Tramin. Switch to the SS48 here and follow the road until Val de Fiemme.

By public transportation: If you're coming by train, go until Bolzano or Auer. From there, take the bus to Val di Fiemme.