Beyond the Dolomites: why Rio di Pusteria is the new trending ski destination this winter

Beyond the bustle of the most touristy spots in the Dolomites, there is a small hidden gem nestled among snowy valleys and silent forests. A place where the mountains move at a human pace, perfect for admiring spectacular landscapes and experiencing a winter full of unforgettable adventures on exciting, still lightly traveled slopes. 

In Rio di Pusteria, a small and historic town at the entrance of the eponymous valley in the heart of South Tyrol, you can discover a territory that combines unspoiled nature with charming villages. The Rio Pusteria ski area fits seamlessly into this setting, offering not only snow sports but a new and authentic way to experience winter, blending fun, tradition, and unforgettable moments.

At the entrance to the Val Pusteria, over 700 meters above sea level, Rio di Pusteria presents itself as a town with an ancient charm, which in recent years has emerged as a trendy ski destination, attracting those seeking less crowded slopes, breathtaking panoramas, and an authentic, special winter experience.

Over the centuries, this small South Tyrolean village played a strategic role as a border and customs post between the counties of Gorizia and Tyrol, a history that is still visible today in the picturesque Chiusa di Rio di Pusteria. Today, strolling through the streets of the historic center, you can discover ancient walls, elegant historic buildings, and shops that, along with cafés and bakeries, keep its commercial tradition alive.

Points of interest such as the “Fonte della vita,” the market square, the parish church, and the old school tell the stories of a community that has managed to preserve its identity over time, while opening its doors to visitors eager to discover South Tyrol beyond the most famous destinations.

Surrounding the town, the landscape opens up to the Dolomites, offering views that alternate between towering peaks and tranquil valleys. Rio di Pusteria serves as the ideal starting point to reach the nearby towns of Maranza and Valles, which are directly connected to the ski area. Here, the mountains reveal their full variety, with panoramic trails and day hikes that allow visitors to explore the surroundings with ease.

If you love skiing, outdoor activities, and winter in all its forms, this is the ideal location: the Area Vacanze Sci e Malghe Rio Pusteria welcomes you with perfectly prepared slopes for all levels and with its beating heart, the Gitschberg Jochtal ski area, served by modern lifts and accompanied by cozy mountain huts, turning every day on the snow into an authentic and unforgettable experience.

From Rio di Pusteria, you can reach the authentic heart of South Tyrol’s winter in just a few minutes. The Rio Pusteria/Gitschberg Jochtal ski area stretches between the villages of Maranza and Valles, set in a landscape seemingly designed for those who love the mountains in their most genuine form.

Over 55 kilometers of slopes wind through forests, panoramic terraces, and snow-covered alpine huts, perfect for those who want to ski away from the crowds without sacrificing variety. The connection between the Gitschberg and Jochtal areas allows you to move in minutes from wide, sunny slopes to more technical and compact trails, with 15 modern, fast lifts ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted experience.

From the highest point of Gitschberg, your gaze stretches over more than 500 Alpine peaks—a view that alone is worth the ascent. In Jochtal, the atmosphere shifts: here the mountain feels more family-friendly, ideal for those seeking a slower pace or traveling with children. Ski schools and areas dedicated to young skiers make the resort particularly welcoming for beginners as well.

And if one day you decide to leave your skis behind? Then you can wander along snow-covered trails, hike with snowshoes among the larches, or simply sit outside a mountain hut with a warm drink in hand, savoring the muffled hush of falling snow and the scent of freshly prepared dishes drifting from the mountain huts.

You can discover hidden corners, such as the views over the valley’s mountain huts or the forests of Maranza and Valles, away from the bustle of the more touristy centers. And when the sun sets, the landscape changes color, painting the peaks in shades of orange and pink: a perfect moment to pause and be amazed by the beauty of this unique land.

Ultimately, this is the true magic of Rio di Pusteria and the Dolomites: the freedom to experience the mountains at your own pace, unhurried, allowing yourself to be delighted by every detail, big or small.

Explore the Rio di Pusteria area to discover the South Tyrolean winter in all its shades, from the gentle rhythm of cross-country skiing to snowy trails to discover on foot or with snowshoes.

The cross-country trails of the Rio Pusteria/Gitschberg Jochtal ski  area allow you to move through landscapes that seem almost suspended in time: from the gentle ups and downs of the Alpe di Rodengo and Luson to the flatter stretches toward Terento, all framed by stunning views of snow-covered alpine pastures and surrounding peaks, with the Sass de Putia dominating the horizon.

Those who prefer walking can choose from well-marked and maintained trails, perfect for simple winter strolls or more challenging snowshoe hikes, amidst spectacular vistas that let you breathe the crisp mountain air, with the snow crunching under your boots, far from the bustle of crowded centers.

And then there’s fun for everyone: tobogganing here is not just a pastime, but part of the local culture. Between Maranza and Terento, there are slopes for every age and skill level, from the 6.1 km-long Brimi Winter Run to gentler runs suitable for children. You can rent a sled on site, or challenge your friends to spontaneous, adrenaline-filled races.

For families, the ski area offers truly special attention: snow playgrounds, magic carpets for little ones, pre-Christmas ski courses and fun routes like the Gimmy Fun Ride on Mount Jochtal allow children to learn and have fun in complete safety, while parents can enjoy the slopes and panoramic views without a care.

To these experiences, two major new additions are now added: the new Gimmy Snowpark Jochtal and Gimmy Snowpark Gitschberg, real snow-play paradises that are easy to reach and filled with slides, climbing nets and areas dedicated to free movement. At Gitschberg, a charming snow igloo stands out — the perfect place for children to invent stories, hide away and let their imagination run free.

For those who love action, the new Kidscross course has been created next to the Breiteben slope — a ski cross track full of jumps, turns and playful obstacles, all protected and designed with great attention to safety. It’s guaranteed fun for both kids and adults who want to improve their technique while experiencing skiing in a fresh, dynamic way.

And for sledding enthusiasts, the beloved Brimi Winter Run is now even more enticing thanks to a new lower section: an extension that lengthens and diversifies the route, offering the whole family an even more thrilling experience, filled with exhilarating descents and enchanting winter scenery.