Winter Sports in South Tyrol
Experience Winter
When South Tyrol dons its winter attire, a landscape full of magic and possibilities emerges. Snowflakes dance in the light, the mountains gleam in bright white, and a special tranquility settles over the valleys. Those who arrive at Zwiglhof immediately feel it – this clear, quiet power of winter.
Winter in South Tyrol – a Winter to Recharge
In winter, South Tyrol becomes still. Snow muffles sounds, the light softens, the air is clear. Wisps of smoke rise, the scent of wood and fresh pastries fills the air – giving the day a gentle rhythm.
At Zwiglhof, the morning sun paints the peaks pink, the snow glistens during the day, and the fire crackles in the evening. Children build snowmen, adults look out and smile.
Nothing more is needed: light, a little movement, and a place to let go. Outside, the world expands; inside, tranquility returns – and in between, quiet happiness emerges.
Active Winter in South Tyrol – from Slopes, Cross-Country Trails, and Ice Rinks
Those who love an active winter will find everything close at hand around Zwiglhof. As the sun rises over the mountains, the slopes of Haunold, Helm, and Rotwand sparkle – gentle descents for beginners, expansive pistes for pleasure-seekers, and plenty of challenges for experts; in the huts, the aroma of dumplings and apple strudel fills the air.
Cross-country skiers glide between Toblach and Innichen over quiet valley floors, meadows, and streams; in the afternoon, a round of ice skating in Toblach or Innichen beckons. Thus, South Tyrol’s winter reveals itself as active yet serene – movement and nature in the same, soothing rhythm.
Rent equipment –
simple and convenient
Guests arriving without their own ski equipment will find everything they need for an active winter around Zwiglhof. In Innichen, Toblach, and the surrounding villages, modern sports shops offer rentals for skis, snowboards, helmets, boots, snowshoes, or sleds – complete with individual advice and excellent maintenance. This ensures even spontaneous guests are perfectly equipped for their winter day.
Rentals are uncomplicated: pick up in the morning, return in the afternoon – often directly at the valley stations of Haunold, Helm, or Rotwand. Many providers offer service packages including waxing, sharpening, or children’s equipment. For snowshoe hikers, there are lightweight, sure-footed models and warm gaiters available.
It’s sporty, without any hassle or heavy lifting. Everything you need is just a stone’s throw away – and then you’re ready to go, out into the snow, into the fun.
Arrival & Connections to the Ski Areas
The paths to activities are short and stress-free. Ski buses and shuttles take guests directly to the lifts of Haunold, Helm, and Rotwand, where slopes and fun parks await. Those who wish to cross-country ski will find numerous entry points in Toblach and Innichen – many with parking and rental stations directly on site.
The roads are regularly cleared, and those who prefer to leave their car behind can use the public bus, which runs several times a day. Walks start directly from the farm, and snowshoe hikes lead from your doorstep into the snow-covered forests.
Winter can be effortless: arrive, set off, enjoy. Movement, tranquility, and comfort go hand in hand here.
Skiing in South Tyrol – Slopes with a View
Just a few minutes from Zwiglhof, winter begins exactly as you wish: clear, sunny, full of possibilities. Gentle slopes, wide pistes – skiing here becomes an experience for body and soul. Beginner or expert? You’ll find your pace. The ski areas of Haunold, Helm, and Rotwand guarantee variety, panoramic views, and an authentic South Tyrolean feeling.
Skiing in the Dolomites – Joy and Lightness
Skiing in the Dolomites feels like moving in harmony with nature. Even the first descent in the soft morning light offers freedom: you tentatively make your first turns or carve wide lines – sharing the same magic: gliding, momentum, a smile under the winter sun.
Around Zwiglhof, everything aligns perfectly: modernly groomed slopes, reliable snow conditions, and an atmosphere that is both sporty and relaxed. In just a few minutes, you can reach three areas – Haunold, Helm, and Rotwand – each with its own character and views.
The most beautiful thing here is the effortless ease: no crowds, minimal waiting, crisp air, friendly faces, and mountain huts that entice with warmth rather than noise. As you make your final turns into the valley in the afternoon and gaze across the Dolomites, you’ll feel it: pure winter bliss.
Skiing at Haunold – family-friendly and close by
The Haunold in Innichen is a beloved spot for families and connoisseurs: manageable slopes, short distances, a friendly atmosphere. Children make their first turns, you soak up the sun – the view of the Dolomites says the rest. Here, it’s not about speed, but about joy.
The valley station is centrally located, with parking and a modern rental shop right next to it; the ski bus also offers a relaxed way to get there. For a change of pace, the illuminated toboggan run from Haunold into the valley awaits in the afternoon.
After skiing, meet up downstairs for a hot cocoa or Aperol. Small bars and cafés around the valley station invite you to warm up – cozy, welcoming, without the hustle and bustle. Small moments, grand memories.
Skiing on Helm –
the panoramic ski area
The Helm stands for expansiveness: long descents, modern lifts, and a panorama stretching to the Three Peaks. You’ll find varied runs for experts and wide, sunny slopes for leisurely enjoyment – lively, yet never hectic.
At the Vierschach valley station, you can park with ease; the ski bus also takes you directly to the gondola. Along the slopes, cozy huts await for a break with a view.
In the afternoon, meet at the small umbrella bar by the valley station – sun, music, and a view of the slopes.
Skiing on the Rotwand –
Skiing in Nature
The Rotwand near Sesto combines activity and nature: slopes winding through snow-covered forests and open hillsides, all with views of the Sesto Sundial. The atmosphere is relaxed, the panorama impressive – ideal for leisurely descents with stops at charming small huts. You can conveniently park at the valley station.
Tip: A single ride is usually expensive – it’s better to get the Three Peaks day ticket, which gives you flexibility between Rotwand, Helm & Co.
To round off your day, stay at the Rotwandwiesenhütte or the Rudi-Hütte: music, mulled wine, rosy cheeks.
Cross-country skiing in the valley in South Tyrol – peaceful, sunny, family-friendly
Valley trails reveal the serene side of winter: wide tracks across meadows and river plains, the gentle murmur of the Drau river, small hamlets with hay barns – and above it all, expansive views of the Dolomites. The terrain remains gentle and easily navigable, perfect for beginners, children, and anyone who wishes to enjoy at their own pace. Access points, rentals, and parking are conveniently close; loops can be easily shortened or extended.
Cross-country skiing in Innichen – Drau Trail Innichen & Vierschach
The Drau Trail connects Innichen with Vierschach, gently following the river. The profile is flat to slightly undulating, and the orientation is clear: stay by the water, choose your distance freely, and turn back when you feel good. Families appreciate the short distances and the many opportunities for small breaks along the riverbank.
If you wish, you can extend your route towards Toblach – the valley remains welcoming and open. A little everyday tip: Start gently, listen to your breathing, and take a short break for the views along the way – that’s precisely what this trail is for.
Cross-country skiing in Toblach – Village Trails & Nordic Arena
Around the Nordic Arena, everything is conveniently close: access, pleasant loops, rental, changing rooms, restrooms, and a café. Ideal for the first days of the season, for a short morning glide, or a small family outing.
The stadium/practice loop offers clarity and safety; the meadow loop towards Toblach village provides more flow but remains moderate. In changeable weather, you have particular freedom here: break off, warm up, or add another small loop later – without rush, with great comfort.
Cross-country skiing in Sexten – Fischleintal Valley to Talschlusshütte
The Fischleinbach Valley is pure winter tranquility: a trail that gently leads uphill, forest edges, clearings, and always the view of the Sesto Sundial. Technically undemanding, scenically grand.
A harmonious destination is the Talschlusshütte: stop for refreshments, warm up, then glide back relaxed on the same trail. Those who start early will experience the valley in the warm morning light and have the tranquility almost to themselves.
Here, it’s less about kilometers – and more about the time spent outdoors.
Further Cross-country Skiing Access Points Niederdorf & Vierschach
The meadow trails near Niederdorf offer short, sunny loops with almost no elevation gain – ideal for first gliding attempts, a small family round, or a refreshing midday break. Vierschach adds connections towards Innichen: clear orientation on the valley floor, with turning points available at any time.
Perfect for trying out equipment, introducing children to the sport playfully, or when you only have half an hour for snow. Plan without pressure: go out, glide, pause – and be content.
Cross-country skiing with elevation gain – Panorama & Fitness
You ascend higher, the air becomes clearer, the views expand. On the high alpine pastures around the Three Peaks lies silent white, the trail drawing a delicate line through the vastness. Up high, the wind can shift – so dress in layers, bring a small bottle, and take breaks. Take it in stages rather than “all at once”: arrive, observe, move on. In the silence, you hear the gentle hum of the skis – and time slows down.
Cross-country skiing on the Cortina–Toblach Trail –
Plätzwiese High-altitude Trails
The Plätzwiese is a winter balcony. Below you, the waves of the high alpine pasture roll, while before you, Monte Cristallo, Hoher Gaisl, and the north faces of the Three Peaks stand like a silent theatre. The trail leads across open terrain, occasionally passing through protective stretches of forest.
On clear days, the snow glistens well into the afternoon. You can park at the top or arrive by shuttle, choose a moderate loop, settle into a sunny spot, and let the vastness gently envelop you in peace.
The sky often feels a little closer here – almost as if you could touch it with your fingertips. As the shadows lengthen, the light paints the peaks rosé, and the high plateau transforms into a silent stage.
Cross-country skiing on the Three Peaks Trail
(Towards Landro / Panorama)
Uphill towards Schluderbach/Landro, that familiar image repeatedly unfolds – only today it feels closer: the Three Peaks, sharply defined in the winter light. The trail remains inviting, the landscape alternately revealing silent forests and expansive vistas.
Along the way, find your perfect spot: a sunny patch, a bench, a fallen tree – enjoy a snack from your backpack, and breathe deeply. In the morning, a crystalline shimmer lies over everything; in the afternoon, the open valley sections offer warmth.
And as you glide, the river’s course carries you through the valley like a gentle melody. Perhaps on the open meadows, you’ll discover tracks in the snow – stories of the night, gently revealed by the morning.
Cross-country skiing on the Cortina–Toblach Trail
(Section including the pass summit)
This connection is a winter thread between two worlds. You start in Toblach, heading towards Schluderbach: first gently, then a little more seriously – and suddenly the landscape opens up. Cristallo and Tofane emerge, while the Three Peaks accompany you from a distance.
Along the way, you decide how much of the day to embrace: turn back before the steepest edge for a leisurely pace, or conquer the summit if your heart says ‘yes‘. Light eyewear and a thin windbreaker will grant you an extra measure of comfort at the top.
And when the air at the top is perfectly clear, every breath feels like a small new beginning. On the way back, a long, calm rhythm carries you – and your thoughts become light.
Cross-country Ski Trail Stadium Variant: World Cup Profiles at the Nordic Arena Toblach
Sometimes it should just be simple: arrive, strap in, glide away. At the stadium, everything is conveniently close – access, short loops, a café, warm rooms. You take a first loop, feel the snow, warm your hands with a cup, then head out again.
Your gaze drifts to the mountains, the paths are clear, the day remains light. Perfect when the weather changes quickly or time is short: minimal planning, maximum winter.
Outside, the scent of wood and coffee mingles with the crisp air – a small luxury between two rounds. When the lights come on in the late afternoon, even the short loops take on a touch of magic.
Ski Touring in South Tyrol – Traces in the Silent White
When snow blankets paths and forests, every movement becomes more serene. Ski touring in South Tyrol feels like a quiet conversation with the mountain: You ascend at your own pace, your gaze expands, and at the top, vastness awaits instead of hustle and bustle. Around Zwiglhof, ideal starting points abound – sunny alpine pastures, tranquil valleys, high-altitude plateaus with Dolomite views.
Ski Touring – In Tune with the Mountain
Ascend, breathe, behold: The rhythm comes naturally. Sometimes through sparse larch forests, sometimes across open snowfields – always close to the landscape. Whether a short after-work loop or a full day: You choose your pace and distance. Warm layers and a thermos flask make your time in the mountains even more enjoyable.
And at the summit, every view feels like a small reward that you carry back with you to Zwiglhof.
Toblach & Innichen/Vierschach – Gentle Starts, Close to the Valley
Gentle ascents via forest roads and open slopes, with many natural turning points and places to linger. Ideal for easing in: clear, sunny, and with Dolomite views. You tailor the length to your daily form – from a short morning loop to a delightful ascent above the tree line.
Rental services and the ski bus are nearby – transforming an idea into a relaxed ski touring day.
Sexten – Serene, Expansive, Dolomite Panorama
Around Sexten, ample space unfolds: forest edges, gentle hollows, then open expanses.
The Sesto Sundial accompanies you as an impressive backdrop. Here you gather tranquility and grand vistas – perfect if you wish to combine mountain time with mindfulness.
A sunny spot for a short break can almost always be found – bringing with it that deep, quiet sense of contentment.
Prags & Plätzwiese – High Above, Bright and Expansive
The Plätzwiese is a winter balcony: vast skies, clear contours, and sweeping views stretching to Cristallo and Hohem Gaisl. Starting early is rewarding – soft light, a tranquil high plateau, and ample time to savour the moment. Equipment can be conveniently rented in Toblach or Innichen; a guided introductory tour offers additional comfort and well-being.
As the light drifts across the high plateau, every step feels light – as if you were taking a piece of winter sky with you.
Snowboarding in South Tyrol
Snowboarding on Mount Haunold
First Turns in Innichen
On Mount Haunold, you feel instantly welcome: wide, sunny slopes directly above Innichen, short distances, and a relaxed atmosphere. Here, you can settle in, get accustomed to your board, and make your first turns without any rush.
Between runs, you can sit on the hut terrace and gaze into the valley. The proximity to the village makes everything easy: a short walk, a warm drink, then glide on.
Children quickly find their rhythm here, each collecting small successes. When the sun shines through the trees, the snow sparkles like confetti. And at the end of the day, you take that feeling of “I can do this” back to Zwieglhof.
Snowboarding on the Rotwand
Nature & Panorama in Sexten
The Rotwand feels like a winter path into tranquility: snow-covered forests, open alpine pastures, and the vast sky above. You let your board glide, ride gentle waves, and lift your gaze to the Sexten Sundial. Here, you set the pace – sometimes gliding, sometimes stopping, sometimes simply breathing.
The mountain huts are often right by the slopes: a warm soup, rosy cheeks, warm hands, then off you go again. Those who wish can seek out the sunny side and follow the light like a trail.
And when the clouds briefly part, the Dolomite rock glows like a painting. At the end of the day, you’ll have gained not only altitude but also many serene images in your mind.
Night Snowboarding
Quick & Spontaneous on Mount Haunold
If your holiday day has been full, but you still want to feel the snow beneath your board, night snowboarding on Mount Haunold is ideal. You float upwards, the lights come on, and below you, the valley twinkles like a string of small stars.
Two or three relaxed descents – that’s all it takes for that “just-one-more-time” feeling. In the evening, it’s quieter, sounds are muffled, and the snow feels a little mysterious.
Afterwards, you glide into the valley one last time, carrying the warmth of the light into the night – a small, exquisite highlight of your holiday.
Snowboarding on Mount Helm & Stiergarten
Panoramic Views in Vierschach
Mount Helm is your panoramic balcony – you set off, and the Dolomites glide by like a moving backdrop. The slopes are long and wide, ideal for smooth, flowing turns that feel like drawing on white paper.
At the top of Stiergarten, the landscape opens up once more, and you pause briefly, just to take it all in. Between two descents, treat yourself to a break in the sun – relax your shoulders, let your gaze wander.
The day here offers space: you decide whether to tackle another slope or simply savour the moment. Sometimes the wind carries the scent of wood and coffee, and you know the next mountain hut is not far. This is snowboarding with time – not faster, but more beautiful.
Snowboarding in the Snowpark
Park Vibes at Kronplatz
Fancy some playful fun in the snow? The Snowpark Kronplatz is perfect for getting a taste: clear, friendly, with easy lines that guide you step by step. First watch, then roll, then a little more – small kickers, flat boxes, gentle entries.
In between, switch to the wide slope, catch your breath, soak in the panorama – and return to the park with a grin. The atmosphere is relaxed: people nod to each other, make space, share the moment.
And in the afternoon, it’s also lovely to sit briefly on the side, watch – and still feel right in the thick of it.
Snowboarding on the Giro delle Cime
Day Tour with a View
The Giro delle Cime connects Helm, Stiergarten, and Rotwand into a day tour that feels like a small journey. Starting in Vierschach – ahead of you lie wide turns, sunny transitions, and ever-changing perspectives of the Dolomites.
Along the way, long pleasure descents alternate with quiet moments at the exits. Later, the section leads you to Rotwand, where the landscape appears like a winter balcony. In the afternoon, the circle closes, and you return content.
Tip: With the Three Peaks Day Ticket, you remain flexible between all sub-areas.
Snowshoeing & Nordic Walking in South Tyrol
Snowshoeing
Silent Trails in the White Landscape
With snowshoes, winter becomes quiet: every step is soft, the world around vast and clear. The Fischleintal (Sexten) is perfectly suited for this – forest edges, clearings, views of the Zwölferkofel and towards the Three Peaks, accompanied by that peaceful rhythm that clears the mind.
On the Plätzwiese, the high plateau opens up: vast skies, expansive views, often long periods of excellent conditions – on clear days, the horizon seems almost within reach. You walk, you pause, you gaze – and carry that unhurried pace back into your heart; before setting out, briefly check the weather/avalanche situation and, if necessary, the shuttle regulations for your journey.
Ice Skating
Skates, Light, and Effortless Grace
On the ice, movement becomes simple and beautiful: you glide, your body settles, your turns become long and clear. With each curve, more balance comes, your breath adjusts, and suddenly everything feels effortless.
In Toblach, you can skate your rounds close to warmth and breaks – a quick step inside, warm your hands, then back out onto the ice. Innichen and Niederdorf feel familiar and close: a few peaceful rounds, a brief glance at the mountains, and the afternoon takes on a gentle glow.
No rush, no obligation – just you, the ice, and an elegant rhythm.
Tobogganing
Curves, Laughter, Rosy Winter Cheeks
A small celebration in white: a short ascent, crisp air – then long glides carry you downhill. At Haunold (Innichen), you can comfortably ascend with the chairlift; the family-friendly run (approx. 2.1 km) starts at the Riese-Haunold-Hütte – perfect for children and parents.
Tuesday & Friday: Night tobogganing (7–10 PM). The track is not continuously lit – please bring a headlamp. For those who wish to toboggan longer, choose the Rotwand toboggan run (Sexten) with a lift: through forest sections and over alpine meadows, refreshments included. Two descents, rosy cheeks – family fun in a compact form.
Winter Sports in South Tyrol
Effortless Variety
Winter in South Tyrol is an invitation: in the morning, you decide spontaneously – slopes with expansive views, cross-country trails in the sun, snowshoe paths through silent forests, toboggan runs full of laughter, or a few rounds on the ice. Everything is close by, often just a short drive or a walk away. You can start leisurely, change direction at midday, and still enjoy a moment outdoors in the evening – floodlights, terrace, crisp air.
And then the return: back at Zwiglhof. Warm light, a view into the valley, tranquility in the house. Shoes off, breathe deeply, let the day resonate – this is what a holiday feels like when it remains effortless and a little different every day.
When a place becomes a feeling.
Zwiglhof in South Tyrol
