Cortina d’Ampezzo, jewel of the Italian Alps, has long drawn those who seek both adventure and old-world charm. Its modern origin story begins with its glamorous rise in the twentieth century as the “Queen of the Dolomites.” Cortina then stepped onto the world stage with the 1956 Winter Olympics, after which there was no turning back. Its slopes have since welcomed royalty, film stars, and alpine legends, enticing visitors with its pink-tinged peaks that are both thrilling and scenic. In summer, the snow gives way to meadows blooming with wildflowers, and the mountains become a playground for hikers, climbers, and cyclists.

Don’t let its athletic prowess fool you—Cortina knows how to apres-ski. Cold weather doesn’t stop the crowds of skiers from partying beneath the Dolomites or dancing at one of the town’s many nightlife hotspots. Cortina is more than a mountain; it is a home away from home, complete with Ladin heritage, Alpine cuisine, and the chic boutiques of Corso Italia. Seventy years after its first foray welcoming the highest level of global competition, Cortina prepares to co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics, further cementing its place in history as a timeless destination.