Nicknamed “the Queen of the Dolomites”, Cortina is undoubtedly the chicest destination in the entire mountain range. The city is a blend of art, nature and culture, with a vibrant social scene, so there is something to suit everyone’s taste.
Nestled in the Dolomiti Superski region, the largest ski area in the world, Cortina is the perfect destination in the winter, since its slopes are considered some the most challenging and panoramic in all the Dolomites. Summer, on the other hand, is the ideal season for hikers and climbers.
The district of Cortina d’Ampezzo is part of the protected area included in the Natural Park of the Dolomites, the mountain range that became a World Heritage Site in 2009.
Are you looking for an affordable hotel in Cortina? The B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina is located in a strategic position, not far from the Passo Tre Croci, an Alpine pass situated at an altitude of 1,800 metres above sea level, on the slopes of Cristallo Mountain and only 13 minutes from the centre of Cortina d’Ampezzo. The hotel is perfect for those looking for high-quality accommodation at the best value for money. The hotel has comfortable rooms furnished with en-suite bathrooms, 200 Mbps Wi-Fi Internet access, an LCD TV and free Sky channels. Do you want to find out more about places of interest and things to do in Cortina? At B&B Hotels it’s simple. From the comfort of your room, just turn on the Smart TV and scroll through the visitors’ information sections. You will find out about restaurants in the area and everything else you need to know for an unforgettable experience in Cortina.
The history of Cortina dates back to the times of the ancient Romans and Barbarians. The city owes its development to the exploitation of forests in the area and the timber trade. Due to its geographical position, it was first annexed to the Republic of Venice and then to the Austro-Hungarian Empire. From the mid-1800s, thanks to the railways that made it accessible to wealthy European travellers, Cortina was transformed into the true capital of the Dolomites and thus, the grand hotels and the first sports and tourist facilities were established.
The First World War was the historical event that had the most significant impact on the region. Subsequently, in the 1930s, it was the favorite destination of the fascist elite.
After the 1956 Olympics, the first of the television era, Cortina slowly began to develop into the town we recognise today.
Located 1,224 metres above sea level and surrounded by a landscape of incomparable beauty, Cortina is the ideal destination for trekking and hiking excursions in the midst of nature. From a short trip in the woods to an excursion to Lake Misurina, the perfect destination to rediscover well-being in nature, you will be spoiled for choice. Among the places of enchanting splendor we also find the crystalline lake of Lake Sorapiss and the Natural Park of the Ampezzo Dolomites, where you can enjoy regenerating walks. There are so many activities to do, even for the little ones!
Among the places to see in Cortina d’Ampezzo are the Basilica of Saint Filippo and Saint Giacomo, the House of the Regoles - now home to the Museum of Modern Art - the Paleontological and Ethnological Museum, with the largest collection of fossils in the Dolomites, various examples of military architecture and the Ice Palace, the arena for the 1956 Winter Olympics.
Some of the wonders to see in the Natural Park of the Dolomites include the peaks of the Cinque Torri, Cristallo Mountain, the Tofane, Lake Sorapis and the waterfalls of the Rio Fanes.
One of the most important events of the year is the arrival of Saint Nicholas and his angels who, on the night of 5 December, arrive in Piazza Angelo Dibona, right in the heart of the historic centre of the town, bringing gifts for good children; the krampuses, on the other hand, are frightening-looking devils who drag large chains and rattle them noisily to frighten young and old alike, especially those who have been “bad” during the year.