Arabba: A True Ski Paradise in the Dolomites

Arabba (1602 m) is a small, authentic alpine village at the foot of the Sella massif. Unlike many commercial ski towns, Arabba has retained its traditional and intimate character, making it an ideal destination for serious skiers who value natural snow, steep slopes, and quick access to one of the most famous ski circuits in the world – the Sella Ronda.

Location and How to Get There

Arabba is located in the Veneto region of Northern Italy, in the heart of the Dolomites. It is part of the Dolomiti Superski network, one of the largest ski areas in the world.

Distance from Venice: approx. 160 km (3 hours by car)
Distance from Innsbruck (Austria): approx. 165 km (3 hours)
Distance from Verona Airport: approx. 190 km (3.5 hours)

Shuttle buses and private transfers are available, and ExoticItaly.com can arrange luxury transfers with English-speaking drivers for a comfortable journey.

Skiing in Arabba

The Arabba ski area boasts 62 km of prepared slopes, plus an additional 12 km in the Marmolada Glacier area. With direct access to the Sella Ronda, skiers can enjoy more than 500 km of interconnected trails without ever needing to remove their skis.

Arabba is renowned for its challenging terrain. From Mount Porta Vescovo (2478 m), expert skiers can experience some of the steepest and most thrilling black runs in the Dolomites. These trails are perfect for advanced skiers seeking adrenaline and technical challenges.

For intermediate skiers, Arabba offers long red runs with varied terrain, while beginners will find easier slopes and ski schools in nearby Alta Badia. The Marmolada Glacier, the highest in the Dolomites at 3343 m, provides year-round skiing and breathtaking panoramic views.

Lifts and Infrastructure

From the town center, five modern lifts depart directly:

Cable car to Alta Badia
Cable car towards Marmolada Glacier
Chairlifts and T-bar lifts serving the local ski areas

All lifts are equipped with the latest technology, ensuring minimal waiting times and maximum skiing pleasure.

Things to Do Beyond Skiing

Arabba may be small, but it offers plenty of activities beyond the slopes:

Snowshoeing and winter hiking trails
Ice climbing and guided mountaineering
Après-ski in cozy alpine huts and local taverns
Day trips to Venice or Bolzano for culture and shopping

Best Time to Visit

The ski season in Arabba runs from late November to mid-April. The high altitude and north-facing slopes ensure excellent snow reliability. For powder enthusiasts, January and February offer the best conditions, while March and early April are perfect for sunny ski holidays.