Canazei
A Ladin hiking hub at the foot of the Sella, the Marmolada, and the great passes.
Canazei sits at the head of Val di Fassa, ringed by the Sella massif, the Sassolungo, and the glaciered Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites. Lively and a touch resort-y, it's the natural base for the Sella Ronda circuit and some of the range's finest high trails, with lifts and pass roads fanning out in every direction.
How it scores
Best for
- ✓Hikers
- ✓Families
- ✓Sella Ronda
- ✓Skiers
Who should skip it
- ✕Train travelers
- ✕Quiet seekers
- ✕Budget backpackers
Signature experiences
- The Viel del Pan balcony trail above Pordoi, face to face with the Marmolada
- The Marmolada cable car to the Punta Rocca terrace at 3,265m, the roof of the Dolomites
- Driving or lifting the Sella Ronda over four Ladin passes
Biggest mistake
Tackling the Sella passes mid-morning in August. The hairpins clog with traffic; start at dawn.
Worth the splurge
A half-board night in a rifugio high on the Sella for sunrise alpenglow.
Not sure where to start?
Take two minutes to find the Alps base that actually fits your trip, then we'll send the route to match.
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