For beginners there is an area set aside at the edge of the village where most lessons begin. Moving onwards and upwards you will graduate to the snowfields of Alpe di Siusi with longer blue runs where you can start to really build up your confidence. With the right encouragement from an attentive instructor it is possible to cruising on reds within a week.

Ortisei is a great base for intermediate skiers and snowboarders who can select to cruise around on the wide open snowfields of Alpe di Siusi or venture over to the slopes above Selva and farther a field into the Sella Ronda. A local run of particular note is the long red that leads back to the village from the top of Cuca Cucasattel. It’s simply beautiful.

The Sella Ronda is easily accomplishable if starting from Ortisei during the low season although at busier times your progress could seriously be hampered by lift queues.

Advanced riders will find some interesting off-piste opportunities descending not far from the summit of Seceda. Due to the fact that this area is riddled with cliffs it is vital to hire a guide. Near by on piste action can be found in the form of two blacks departing the summit of Ciampinoi one being the famous Sasslong world cup downhill piste and farther a field at Arabba you can find even more challenging terrain. Other off-piste options can be found from the top of the Passo Pordoi cable car above Canazei. Again it is essential to hire a guide due to the nature of the terrain. Headlines about skiers and snowboarders falling off of a cliff, does not bode particularly well with the resort authorities.

Freestylers will find natural hits popping up all over the place although if it’s park you’re after you need to get yourself over to Belvedere above Canazei.