Alpine summer dream: Selva di Val Gardena (Italy)

When the summer heat becomes somewhat excessive in the lowlands, moving upwards is a sensible decision. Selva di Val Gardena provides a decent refuge from the seasonal temperature spikes. It sits at an altitude of approximately 1,563 metres, which keeps the air at a reasonable and refreshing temperature.

The village is positioned directly under the large limestone walls of the Dolomites, a landscape that has received a UNESCO heritage listing. These gray peaks do not just look solid; they also block out the more aggressive heat of the valley, making the climate quite practical for daily activities.

For those who feel the need to move their legs, the local hiking network is highly sufficient. It offers 600 kilometres of marked trails winding through the valley and the higher terrain. You can find anything from flat paths through the meadows to steep tracks leading into the rough rocks of the Puez Group. It is quite difficult to get lost if you follow the markers properly.

The cultural setup here is slightly unusual. The inhabitants speak three languages: Ladin, German, and Italian. This trilingual arrangement means the street signs are long, but it adds a certain variation to the local atmosphere without causing much confusion for the visitor.

This cultural mix can also be observed on the dinner plate. The local cuisine balances heavy South Tyrolean dumplings with lighter Mediterranean pasta dishes. It is functional food meant for people who walk up mountains, served without unnecessary decorative fuss.

If you happen to visit during the summer, you might encounter some culture in the valley. The Biennale Gherdëina takes place across several locations from May until September. It is a contemporary art exhibition that places modern installations directly into the mountain landscape. The biennale explores themes around nature and human presence without being overly loud about it.

Geographically, the location is isolated but not cut off from civilisation. The closest well-known city is Bolzano, located about 40 kilometres to the west, which serves as the regional hub. Innsbruck is also reachable across the Austrian border if you do not mind driving a bit further.