Your comprehensive guide for planning a family trip to Ortisei: reasons to visit, top family-friendly hotels, family hikes, farms, restaurants, and more.
Ortisei (known as Urtijëi in Ladin, one of the local languages) is a stunning mountain town nestled in the Dolomites of northern Italy.
While the entire Dolomites region has excellent amenities for tourists, Ortisei and the Val Gardena valley embraced tourism earlier than many other areas. This has resulted in Ortisei being one of the most upscale and family-friendly destinations in the Dolomites.
Having visited the Dolomites my entire life—and admittedly favoring a smaller valley a bit north of Ortisei (after spending more than 40 summers in one spot, it’s hard not to be biased!)—I can confidently say that Ortisei is ideal for international visitors with children. I often recommend it as one of the best places for first-time visitors to the Dolomites.
Your family will adore Ortisei’s breathtaking nature, superb accommodation options, and numerous cable cars that whisk you to stunning heights without the need for strenuous hikes (unless you choose to!). Also available are fantastic restaurants, shops, and kid-friendly attractions such as farms and swimming pools.
I spent another summer in Ortisei with my children and parents. Drawing from our numerous visits, I present this detailed guide to Ortisei with kids. I hope you find it helpful!
I am most familiar with Ortisei during summer and will focus on summer activities in this guide (I don’t ski!). The recommendations for hotels and restaurants also apply to winter visits.
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Why Visit Ortisei with Kids
Ortisei is not only visually appealing but also provides easy access to stunning mountain scenery and charming huts.
The Val Gardena region established itself as a tourism hotspot before many other towns, making it a developed and fully serviced destination.
Ortisei feels more expansive and urban compared to others; its walkable city center, lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, caters well to those who prefer a less rural setting.
For example, if you stay in Ortisei, you can enjoy pleasant evening strolls or enjoy an aperitivo without needing a car.
Ortisei is also conveniently close to Bolzano, making it easier to fit into your Italy travel itinerary.
Reasons to Skip Ortisei with Kids
Keep in mind, Ortisei is an upscale destination and can be quite expensive. It may not be the best choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Nearby Castelrotto— which I personally prefer due to its charm—is a more affordable option without compromising on comfort or scenery.
While Ortisei doesn’t provide panoramic views from the town itself (as it sits at the bottom of the valley), it does offer easy access to such vistas via cable cars and chairlifts.
Thus, it is most suitable for those who are comfortable with heights and willing to use these services.
Top Family Activities in Ortisei
The best activities for children in Ortisei revolve around the stunning natural surroundings.
There’s no need for extensive pre-planning; these suggestions are flexible, letting you create your itinerary as you go! The primary exception is securing accommodation in advance (see my recommended options below).
Explore Alpe di Siusi: Walk, See Animals, Eat, and Enjoy the Views
Alpe di Siusi is a vast alpine plateau situated just above Ortisei. It’s one of the most beautiful, kid-friendly destinations where you can enjoy breathtaking mountain views without arduous hikes.
Alpe di Siusi showcases rolling Alpine meadows and charming huts, many of which feature playgrounds and friendly animals for children to interact with.
You could easily spend several days here, trying out different walks, biking, or simply unwinding at one of the numerous mountain restaurants.
There are various ways to reach the plateau from Ortisei, but my personal favorite is by bus or cable car via Castelrotto.
Check out my family guide to Alpe di Siusi here >>>
Take the Cable Car to Seceda
Seceda is one of the most renowned spots in the region, and for good reason.
At Seceda, you can get up close to the peaks, soak in breathtaking views, and feel the thrill of being high in the mountains—all without needing to hike!
Reaching Seceda from Ortisei is incredibly straightforward.
You can take the gondola from the town center, followed by a chairlift. Once you arrive, enjoy the stunning scenery, hike, relax, or indulge at one of the many mountain huts or restaurants.
Stay Active at Col de Flam Adventure Park
Col de Flam Adventure Park is exactly as it sounds: a thrilling place filled with treetop trails and ziplines!
This park is easily accessible from Ortisei’s city center (no car required) and offers treetop paths suitable for kids aged 4 and above, as well as more challenging routes for teenagers and adults. It also features active zones like an exciting trampoline area. More information can be found at Col de Flam website.
This is an ideal destination when kids are energetic yet not in the mood for hiking.
Unwind at Mar Dolomit Pools
Mar Dolomit is a fantastic family-friendly complex with pools and dining options, perfect for days when kids prefer to relax rather than hike or need to wind down after a busy morning on the trails.
For younger children, Mar Dolomit offers an outdoor paddling pool, an indoor baby pool with a slide, and both indoor and outdoor lap pools for older kids, along with a sauna for adults and a restaurant.
Find more information on the official site >>> Mar Dolomit.
Embark on Family-Friendly Hikes
Hiking is a highlight in this region, with numerous trails perfect for families, given the right conditions.
The top hiking trails suitable for kids in the Ortisei area include the PanaRaida trail (a themed adventure path featuring play stops, sensory engaging areas, playgrounds, and even geocaching), the Val d’Anna Nature Walk with Kneipp stations, as well as several hiking trails on Alpe di Siusi, such as easy routes to Baita Tuene, Restaurant Gostner Schweige, Malga Tirler, and hikes accessed by the Resciesa funicular and up to Seceda.
Luis Trenker Walk Playground
Ortisei features a delightful playground along the Luis Trenker walk, equipped with climbing structures, slides, a fun wooden train, and a sandpit.
Ride the Funicular to Alpe Resciesa
Alpe Resciesa is an area of natural beauty located just above Ortisei, accessible by the Resciesa funicular.
The funicular climbs over 2000 meters above sea level, where you’ll find a charming chalet, breathtaking views, and easy hiking options. Learn more at Resciesa website.
Discover Ortisei’s Charming Town Center
Ortisei boasts a picturesque town center, featuring pedestrian-friendly streets, charming houses, delightful cafés, and numerous shops.
The town’s fairy-tale charm typical of this region makes it an exceptional shopping destination, whether you’re looking for mountain gear or designer brands.
Check Out Local Wooden Crafts and Souvenir Shops
Woodworking is a cherished local craft, with shops offering a variety of beautifully crafted wooden toys, sculptures, and home items that children usually love to explore.
Alongside wooden toys, popular souvenirs include cooking utensils, lovely textiles, Christmas ornaments, figurines, and cookbooks.
Dining in Ortisei: Best Family-Friendly Restaurants
Ortisei has many wonderful family-friendly dining options.
The local cuisine distinctly differs from the rest of Italy, featuring Sud-Tyrolean flavors (think Wiener schnitzel, knödel, and apfelstrudel), and it’s quite common for kids’ menus to be available.
In the Dolomites, I recommend considering a hotel with half-board (breakfast and dinner included), but if you’re renting or want to explore local eateries, here are some excellent restaurants in Ortisei:
>> Turonda Pizza, Strada Johann Baptist Purger, 5, 39046 Ortisei (BZ) Map
>> Mauriz Keller (offering pizza and local dishes), Strada Rezia, 32, 39046 Ortisei (BZ) Map
>> Ristorante Pizzeria Mar Dolomit, Promeneda, 2, 39046 Ortisei (BZ) Map
In addition to restaurants, Ortisei is home to lovely bakeries and pastry shops, ideal for grabbing bread, baked goods, hot chocolate, a slice of cake, or a refreshing drink or Aperol spritz for the adults.
We particularly enjoy Caffè Adler, perfect for a drink, slice of cake, light lunch, or bowl of fresh fruit right in the town center.
Top Family-Friendly Hotels in Ortisei
Alpenheim Charming Spa and Hotel—This beautiful hotel offers family suites for up to 5 people, with a swimming pool, on-site restaurant, spa, and stunning mountain views, all in proximity to the town center.
Hotel Angelo Engel—A lovely hotel featuring a beautiful garden, pool, traditional stube, on-site restaurant, and family rooms accommodating up to 6 guests.
Cavallino Bianco Family Spa Grand Hotel—Cavallino Bianco is among the most renowned family hotels in Italy, tailored specifically for families, greatly contributing to Ortisei’s popularity among families.
This hotel provides an extensive array of services for children, including age-specific clubs, an indoor play area, swimming pool, and organized activities. It’s a vibrant hub for both wealthy Italian families and international tourists alike, making it exceptionally convenient during both summer and winter.
Charming Locations Nearby Ortisei Where Kids Can Interact with Animals
Petting Zoo at Monte Pana—Conveniently located near the PanaRaida family trail, this petting zoo features ponies, rabbits, and various small animals, providing a delightful stop for families. While children engage with the animals, parents can relax nearby.
Malga Marinzen, located just above Castelrotto (a short bus ride from Ortisei), can be easily accessed by chairlift or a gentle hike.
Tschötscherhof Farm—A traditional mountain farm situated a short drive from Ortisei in Castelrotto. More information is available at Tschötscherhof website.
Shopping for Food and Baby Essentials in Ortisei
Ortisei boasts availability of essential services, including grocery stores, supermarkets (such as Spar in the town center), and pharmacies where you can find a variety of baby and toddler necessities, medications, outdoor gear, and more.
Plan Your Visit to Ortisei with Kids!
