Canazei (Cianacei in the local language of Ladin) is tucked amongst the sky-scraping peaks of Val di Fassa – including the Marmolada, the highest mountain in the Dolomites. Summer lifts winch hikers and cyclists up to the all-you-can-explore buffet of footpaths and mountain top via ferrata routes. Back in town, the pedestrian-friendly streets of Canazei make for a wonderful wander. Duck into inns and restaurants with elaborately carved wooden balconies and pick up souvenirs in farm and wine shops selling Ladin specialities unique to this once-isolated region.
Walking in the Val di Fassa
Some of the most scenic footpaths in the Dolomites traverse the Val di Fassa. Thankfully, having the fitness of a mountain goat isn’t always required. Sure, you can trek up Piz Boè, the highest mountain in the Sella group – or you can hop in the cable car to the top for walks without the calf ache. Lake Carezza is an hour’s bus ride away from Canazei – a fairy-tale lake that, in the summer, mirrors the spruce forests and mountains around. Take in its (often very popular) viewpoints before heading out onto the more family-friendly, peaceful paths beyond.
Summer activities: Giro d’Italia cycling country
Cable cars and mountain trails lead the way to the Pordoi Pass, where viewpoints offer incredible views over the Dolomites; and the 28 hairpin bends of the Giro d’Italia far, far below. In this region, cyclists can tackle the challenging climbs of the cols, weave through forests on the valley floor, and dive into bike park trails. In the summer, many of the cable cars welcome bikes on board, transforming the Marmolada, Sella and Sassolungo mountains into cycling routes for almost every ability. This is the ideal place to visit if active summer holidays are your cup of tea.
Culture in Canazei: exploring Ladin villages
Val di Fassa is one of the five Ladin valleys in northern Italy. Italian, German and English are all widely spoken here, but most townspeople name Ladin as their first language. Try “bun dé!” for hello and “giulan!” for thank you when exploring the more traditional mountain huts, bars and bakeries in town. These are the best places to try culinary Ladin specialities such as fig-filled cajoncie ravioli and the family favourite Tyrolean pancakes piled with blueberry jam. Festivals materialise all summer long too, including the Gran Festa d’istà – when people from all five Ladin valleys get together to celebrate with music, food, drink and dance. The festivals are fun for all age groups and a fantastic opportunity to get to know the local culture on your holiday.
Summer mountain adventures for families
From orienteering and e-biking to easy walking with cable car access – the mountains around Canazei are a great playground for families. Just don’t forget the actual playgrounds, like Fassa Park’s trampolines, paddling pools and bike hire centre. Dòlaondes is the place for zooming down waterslides and splashing about in swimming pools with wrap-around views of the Dolomites; along with a spa treatment or two for the grown-ups. We love cooling down in the waterparks on a hot summer's day.
Why book a summer holiday in Canazei with Inghams?
At Inghams, we do walking holidays differently. With no fixed itinerary, you have more time in your destination and the freedom to walk as much or as little as you like, discovering some of Canazei's best activities at your own pace.
Plus, we've included two optional guided walks every week in Canazei. Join a professional mountain guide and really get to know the area (see more details in the ‘walking’ tab below).
With over 85 years of outdoor travel experience, our holiday packages to Canazei include flights, transfers, and accommodation, so you can relax and leave the small details to us. Our experts can help you choose the best holiday for you, and our team in resort can give you the inside scoop on how to spend your time away with us.
