Sitting at the head of the valley, Selva is the undisputed gateway to the Sellaronda.
Sitting at 1,563m, Selva offers the most immersive 'high alpine' experience in the valley. Here, you feel physically embraced by the Dolomites, with the vertical walls of the Sella Massif and the Stevia peaks towering directly above the hotel rooftops. It is the energetic heart of Val Gardena, boasting the highest density of ski-in/ski-out accommodations and a vibrant atmosphere that rivals Austrian resorts. Whether you are chasing the orange Sellaronda loop at sunrise or carving the World Cup slopes, Selva is the choice for purists who want maximum time on snow.
Arrival & Logistics
Selva is located at the very end of the Val Gardena valley, sitting at the highest altitude (1,563m). It is the final stop for most bus lines.
Morning Glory
"Skip the main Dantercepies gondola at 08:30. Instead, take the Ciampinoi chairlift. The 'black' Saslong is famous, but the red Ciampinoi 3 run in the morning sun is pure carving perfection."
The Verdict
Why Stay Here
- Unbeatable Access (Sellaronda)
- Snow-Sure Altitude
- Lively Nightlife
Trade-offs
- Can be crowded in peak season
- Sun sets earlier (shadow)
- Higher price point
The Sellaronda Hub
You don't need a ski bus here. The Sellaronda (Orange and Green loops) runs directly through the town center. Advanced skiers love the steep Dantercepies gondola in the morning sun, while the Ciampinoi lifts whisk you to the World Cup runs in minutes.
Dolomite Hiking
In summer, Selva transforms into a hiker's paradise. The Puez-Odle Nature Park starts right at the village edge. The walk into 'Vallunga' is flat and perfect for families, while the via ferrata routes on the Stevia and Cir peaks challenge the brave.
Castle Ruins
Perched on a cliff at the entrance to Vallunga stands the ruins of Wolkenstein Castle (Burg Wolkenstein). Built in the 13th century and famously the ancestral home of the poet Oswald von Wolkenstein, it looks like it grew directly out of the rock face.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Selva good for beginners?
Yes, but with a caveat. The village center connects directly to steep slopes, but the nearby 'Dantercepies' and 'Plan de Gralba' areas offer fantastic, wide blue runs perfect for learning.
Can I ski the Sellaronda from Selva?
Absolutely. Selva is arguably the best starting point. You can start the Orange (Clockwise) loop via Dantercepies or the Green (Counter-Clockwise) loop via Ciampinoi directly from town.
Is Selva di Val Gardena expensive?
Generally, yes. Due to its prime 'Ski-in/Ski-out' location on the Sellaronda, accommodation prices tend to be 15-20% higher than in Ortisei or Santa Cristina.
How is the nightlife in Selva?
It is the liveliest in the valley. While Val Gardena is not Ischgl, Selva offers genuine Après-Ski at places like Luislkeller and Kronestube, often continuing late into the evening.
Where to Stay
Top-rated hotels in Selva di Val Gardena.
