Your Girl is Now a Competent Snowboarder!
After a year of learning how to snowboard in the States, I decided to level up by taking on multiple mountains in Italy’s Dolomites region, Val Gardena, just a few weeks ago. It was an incredible experience, and if you’ve ever been curious about snowboarding, read on to learn about my journey and my ultimate guide to snowboarding in the Dolomites (aka Dolomiti).MY TRAVEL RESOURCES
- Flights – I use Skyscanner to find amazing flight deals.
- Accommodation – Book your hostel with Hostelworld. For the best guesthouse and hotel rates, use Booking.com.
- Rent A Car – Discover Cars and Rental Cars are great booking and comparison sites for rental car deals.
- Fun Activities – Get Your Guide and Viator provide ease of discovering and booking a wide range of activities like walking tours, fun excursions, private guides, and more.
- Protect Your Trip – Don’t forget travel insurance!
My Journey to Snowboarding
I first entertained the idea of snowboarding after a failed attempt at skiing in Chile’s Valle Nevado over a decade ago. Watching snowboarders effortlessly glide down the slopes, I assumed it had to be the easier sport to learn. Spoiler alert: I was wrong.
In 2016, I attended a three-day snowboard camp in Niseko, Japan, where I managed to grasp the basics—learning how to turn and safely navigate down a small slope. All I needed to do afterward was practice consistently. But did Zainob practice?
Nope.
A year later, I visited Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort in South Korea, determined to finally put in some practice time. Unfortunately, the experience turned into an embarrassing disaster, and I decided to put my snowboarding dreams on hold until I had the time to commit properly.
Then, in 2020, life threw another curveball. On Thanksgiving Day in Lagos, while walking down a flight of stairs with a tray of food, ‘NEPA’ (the power company) struck—leaving me in darkness and causing me to take a nasty fall. My injuries led to persistent knee problems that made even walking painful, let alone dreaming of snowboarding again.
By the end of 2023, after months of doctor consultations, physical therapy, and a whole lot of yoga, I was ready to revisit my snowboarding dream. I kicked off an intense workout program to strengthen my knees, and by mid-November, I had multiple bookings for January 2024 at different mountains in New York, plus six days of lessons to support my goal.
Did I succeed? Well, somewhat.
My knees still needed more work than expected, and I made the mistake of not investing in the proper support tools to protect them from my many, many falls. Back to the drawing board—and physical therapy—I went.
After two months of focused rehab, I bought knee braces and knee pads, then returned to the slopes. But first, I eased back into it at Big Snow, an indoor ski slope in New Jersey. A few practice sessions later, I was ready for the real deal—a snowboarding weekend in the Poconos, where I could put all my lessons to the test.
This time, I survived, had an amazing time, and most importantly, my knees held up!
Spending eight hours boarding down a mountain? Count me in. Snowboarding quickly became my escape—a way to clear my mind when life got overwhelming. It also pushed me to stay consistent with my workouts, eat healthier, and prioritize my fitness in a way I never had before.
Thankfully, I live near Big Snow, the only indoor ski slope in North America, and made it a habit to visit at least two to three times a month. This routine became a crucial part of my snowboarding progress.
After a year of pushing myself physically and building my confidence as a snowboarder, I knew it was time for the next challenge—spending a week treating myself to an unforgettable winter adventure in Italy’s Val Gardena.
About Val Gardena in Winter
Val Gardena in the Dolomites is a snow-covered wonderland that offers the perfect blend of adrenaline-filled snowboarding, heartwarming cultural experiences, and unparalleled natural beauty. I dragged a couple of friends along for this trip, Rod and Isioma, and I can’t wait to share all the details to help you plan your dream winter escape to Val Gardena.
Getting There: From Bergamo to Val Gardena
We chose to fly into Milan’s Bergamo Airport because it was the most pocket-friendly way to reach Val Gardena (flights to closer airports like Bolzano and Innsbruck were convoluted and expensive). From there, we rented an SUV and embarked on a scenic drive through the breathtaking landscapes of northern Italy. The journey took us past charming towns, rolling hills, and, eventually, the towering peaks of the Dolomites.
Airports Close to Val Gardena
- Bolzano Dolomiti BZO – 40 km distance
- Innsbruck Innsbruck INN – 120 km distance
- Verona Villafranca “Valerio Catullo” VRN – 190 km distance
- Bergamo Orio al Serio BGY – 270 km distance
- Venice Marco Polo VCE – 270 km distance
- Munich „Franz Josef Strauß” MUC – 300 km distance
- Milano Milano-Malpensa MXP – 350 km distance
- Salzburg “W. A. Mozart” SZG – 320 km distance
- Zurich Zürich-Kloten ZRH – 420 km distance
Where to Stay: Hotel Silvana
We made Hotel Silvana our home base, and it was everything we hoped for in a cozy alpine retreat. The hotel’s half-board option provided us with a delicious breakfast each morning and indulgent four-course dinners that left us completely satisfied after long days on the slopes. Thursdays are the only exception, as dinner isn’t served, which gave us an excuse to explore the local dining scene. Besides our delicious meals, soaking up in the hotel’s hot tub and giving our muscles some much-needed R&R in the steamer and sauna made for a daily spiritual experience that we took very seriously.
The friendly staff made us feel right at home, and the location was ideal for accessing both the slopes and nearby attractions. Pro tip: Book early, as this hotel is a popular choice for winter sports enthusiasts.
Snowboarding Highlights in Val Gardena
First, make sure to download the Dolomiti Superski App to help track your routes across the mountains. This app also came in handy when I helped a lady get some much-needed emergency crew; I was able to contact the emergency number provided on the app and gave them our location coordinates that was also provided by the app.
1. The Sella Ronda: A Must-Do Circuit
The Sella Ronda is an iconic 40-kilometer circuit that takes you through four valleys, offering a thrilling mix of runs and jaw-dropping views. This day-long adventure was one of the highlights of our trip. From perfectly groomed slopes to cozy mountain huts serving up delicious alpine treats, the Sella Ronda is a bucket-list experience for snowboarders. Make sure to start the experience as early as 10 AM if you want to experience a nice leisurely circuit that will get you back to your preferred lift access before the lift closing time of 4:30 PM.
You need to have the Dolomiti Superski pass to access the different mountains on this trail.
2. La Longia: A Legendary Trail
For those craving a long, exhilarating descent, La Longia is a must. This 10-kilometer trail takes you from the Seceda summit to Ortisei, winding through forests and breathtaking open landscapes. Midway down, we stopped for breakfast at Val D’Anna, where we enjoyed fresh pastries and steaming coffee before continuing our ride. I rented my snowboard gear from Ski Rental 2000, and their top-notch service ensured I had everything I needed for an epic day on the slopes.
Note – you can book a 7:30 a.m. (the thrill of being the first) ride down La Longia before it opens to the public at 8:30 a.m. and the package comes with breakfast at Val D’Anna (available on Thursdays only).
Beyond Snowboarding: Fun Things to do in Val Gardena
Val Gardena isn’t just about the slopes; it’s also a destination rich in culture and natural beauty. Here’s what we explored beyond snowboarding:
1. A Guided Ortisei’s Art Tour
The charming town of Ortisei is a hub of creativity and tradition. During our guided tour, we wandered through its picturesque streets and visited a local art workshop, where skilled artisans create intricate wood sculptures that reflect the region’s heritage. The craftsmanship we witnessed was nothing short of inspiring.
2. Beer Tasting Experience
As a lover of unique experiences, I couldn’t resist the chance to learn about Val Gardena’s brewing traditions. On the “Something’s Brewing” tour, we discovered how pristine mountain spring water is transformed into exceptional beers. The tasting session at Monpier de Gherdenia was a highlight, featuring a variety of brews paired with delicious local snacks.
3. The Thrill of First on La Longia
Eager to be among the first on the slopes, we set our alarms for 6:30 am to catch the first lift at 7:30 am. Unfortunately, the first bus arrived 10 minutes late, and we missed the group. Still, we managed to start riding at 8:30 am when the lifts opened to everyone else. The untouched snow and early morning light made the effort worthwhile. It was a magical way to experience the mountain before the crowds arrived.
4. Go Cross-Country Skiing in Vallunga
For a change of pace, we tried our hand at cross-country skiing in Vallunga, nestled within the Puez-Odle Nature Park. As beginners, we found the trails manageable yet challenging enough to keep things exciting. The serene setting and fresh mountain air made this an experience to remember.
Visit Val Gardena’s activity page to book an activity that’s best for you.
The Friendliest Locals You’ll Ever Meet
As Black travelers in a predominantly white region, Isioma and I weren’t sure what to expect. But from the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warmth and kindness. The locals went out of their way to help us and made sure we felt completely at ease. This sense of inclusivity added an extra layer of magic to our trip and made Val Gardena a place I’d return to in a heartbeat.
Language Tips and Key Phrases to Learn
Val Gardena’s unique mix of German and Italian influences is reflected in the languages spoken throughout the region. Most locals are bilingual, but English is less common, particularly with tour guides or older residents. Knowing a few key phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience and making interactions smoother. Here are some essential phrases to help you get by:
German Phrases
- Guten Tag! (Good day!)
- Wie viel kostet das? (How much does this cost?)
- Wo ist die Bushaltestelle? (Where is the bus stop?)
- Ich brauche Hilfe. (I need help.)
- Sprechen Sie Englisch? (Do you speak English?)
- Danke schön! (Thank you very much!)
- Entschuldigung. (Excuse me.)
- Können Sie das bitte übersetzen? (Can you translate this, please?)
Italian Phrases
- Buongiorno! (Good morning!)
- Quanto costa? (How much does it cost?)
- Dov’è la fermata dell’autobus? (Where is the bus stop?)
- Ho bisogno di aiuto. (I need help.)
- Parla inglese? (Do you speak English?)
- Grazie mille! (Thank you very much!)
- Mi scusi. (Excuse me.)
- Può tradurre questo, per favore? (Can you translate this, please?)
Practical Tips for Communication
- Use a translation app: Apps like Google Translate are incredibly handy for bridging the language gap. Download offline language packs for German and Italian before your trip.
- Point and gesture: Visual aids, such as pointing to items or using gestures, can help you communicate when words fail.
- Smile and show gratitude: A friendly smile and a heartfelt “Danke schön” or “Grazie mille” can make a big difference in your interactions.
By learning these simple phrases, you’ll not only make your trip more enjoyable but also show respect for the local culture—something the people of Val Gardena truly appreciate.
Tips for Planning Your Val Gardena Adventure
- Transportation Matters: If you’re planning early morning activities, double-check bus schedules or consider accommodations closer to the lifts to avoid delays.
- Gear Rentals: Renting your snowboard gear is a breeze in Val Gardena. I highly recommend Ski Rental 2000 for their excellent service and quality equipment.
- Book Activities Early: Guided tours and experiences like beer tasting and art workshops are popular, so reserve your spot in advance.
- Dress for Success: Layering is key to staying comfortable in the ever-changing mountain weather.
- Savor the Food: Don’t miss out on Val Gardena’s apres-ski and culinary delights, from hearty mountain meals to sweet pastries that will warm your soul.
- Take Your Time: With so much to see and do, it’s tempting to pack your itinerary. Remember to slow down and soak in the beauty of the Dolomites.
Why Val Gardena Should Be Your Next Snowboarding Destination
Val Gardena is more than just a snowboarding paradise; it’s a place where adventure, culture, and natural beauty come together to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re carving up the Sella Ronda, cruising down La Longia, or exploring the artistic traditions of Ortisei, there’s something for everyone in this Dolomite gem.
The warm hospitality of the locals, combined with the region’s breathtaking scenery and thrilling activities, ensures that Val Gardena leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. Start planning your adventure today, and prepare to fall in love with this winter wonderland!
