The Tofane Dolomite massif
West of Cortina d'Ampezzo is one of the most famous Dolomite mountains: the Tofane - three peaks that are among the highest peaks in the Dolomites. The highest peak is Tofana di Mezzo, which is in the middle. At 3,244 m, it is also the third highest peak of the Dolomites. The northernmost crag, the Tofana di Dentro has a height of 3,238 m, the Tofana di Rozes, however, is 3,225 m high and known for its south wall. All three are very popular tour destinations and offer hiking and climbing of various degrees of difficulty. There is even a mountain railway there, which leads up to the highest Summit. The 5 km long cable car "Freccia nel Cielo" connects Cortina with the Tofana di Mezzo summit. The cable car was built over three stations (Col Drusciè, Ra Valles and the summit itself). The 3rd, cable car station, at the Summit, is however, only in operation during the summer months - an unforgettable journey that VIVODolomites recommends to all summer visitors. And the ski slopes at the foot of the Tofane in the Dolomites are famous.
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Frequently asked questions about Cortina d’Ampezzo
Where is Cortina in Italy?
Cortina or Cortina d'Ampezzo is located in Italy in the province of Belluno or in the Veneto region. Cortina is surrounded by the Ampezzo Dolomites. Furthermore, Cortina is only 15 km from the border with South Tyrol.
Is Cortina in the Alps or Dolomites?
Cortina d'Ampezzo is located in the Dolomites, which in turn are part of the Alps – so it is not an “either-or” rather a “both”. The Dolomites are a geologically and visually distinct, unique mountain massif, but within the Eastern Alps.
Why is Cortina famous?
Cortina d'Ampezzo owes its worldwide reputation primarily to its role as a pioneer of winter sports, as a venue for major global events and as a meeting place for the international jet set:
Unique Olympic history. In 1956, Cortina hosted the VII Olympic Winter Games, and in 2026, Cortina once again hosted these international competitions, this time jointly with Milan.
Celebrities, luxury and the jet set. Since the 1950s, Cortina has attracted high society, film stars and aristocrats. The pedestrian zone Corso Italia is famous for luxury boutiques, jewellers, art galleries and exclusive hotels.
Legendary film set. The striking rocky scenery around the Ampezzo Valley served as a filming location for world-famous cinematic classics:
James Bond 007 – For Your Eyes Only (1981): Roger Moore raced across the slopes and the Olympic bobsleigh track of Cortina on skis.
Cliffhanger (1993): Sylvester Stallone filmed his spectacular climbing scenes in the rock towers around Cortina.
The Pink Panther (1963): the first film in the cult series starring Peter Sellers takes place largely in snowy Cortina.
Tofana downhill run (Alpine Ski World Cup). In the world of sport, Cortina is renowned for its legendary Olimpia delle Tofane downhill run. Each year, the world’s top female alpine skiers compete on this fast-paced downhill run, which features the narrow rock channel known as the “Tofana Schuss”.
Is Corina a good base for Dolomites?
Yes, Cortina d’Ampezzo is an excellent base for a holiday in the Dolomites, as the town itself is nestled in the mountains and surrounded by some of the region’s best-known peaks, including the Tofane, Cristallo and Sorapiss groups. Cortina is also ideal for active holidaymakers, as the city scores points both in winter with a large ski area connected to Dolomiti Superski and in summer with numerous hiking, climbing and mountain biking opportunities. The offer is complemented by a sophisticated centre with boutiques, cafés and restaurants, making it easy to combine nature experiences with urban flair.
Is Cortina Italy expensive?
Yes, Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of the most expensive destinations in the Dolomites, having established itself over the decades as a sophisticated, exclusive resort with an international clientele. Accommodation, restaurants and boutiques are all significantly more expensive than in many other destinations in the Dolomites.
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