Selva Val Gardena

Placed directly below the Sella massif, the plateau-shaped mountain which appears as though it’s carrying the weight of the heavens on its shoulders, lies the picturesque village of Selva Val Gardena (Wolkenstein in German and Sëlva in Ladin). Opposites create a true harmony in Selva Val Gardena which attracts countless visitors to Dolomites Val Gardena every year: modernity meets a bucolic setting, sport goes hand-in-hand with recovery, the perfect infrastructure alternates with leisurely and isolated meadows and paths. Dive into a world that will sweep you under its spell within a couple of seconds.

Selva Val Gardena lies in the heart of an extraordinary natural landscape. Set in a picturesque valley, the village is surrounded by the Dolomites, which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Parts of the Puez Group, the Cir peaks, the legendary Sella Group and the Sassolungo Group frame Val Gardena and shape the impressive scenery around Selva.

Thanks to this special location, Selva is a popular destination for active holidaymakers. Tourism is the village’s main economic sector: hotels, guesthouses, restaurants and ski schools all shape its character. In winter, Selva is also one of the access points to the Sellaronda and attracts many day visitors who ski around the Sella massif.

In Selva and the other two municipalities of Val Gardena, Ladin culture also plays an important role. Ladin is taught in schools; alongside German and Italian, it is the third official language of Val Gardena.

Selva is an ideal starting point for an active holiday in Val Gardena. The surrounding Dolomites offer a wide range of opportunities to enjoy nature – from hiking and walking to family-friendly activities in the fresh mountain air. The extensive network of trails around Selva and Val Gardena reveals new routes again and again, while leisurely walks offer peace and a sense of authentic rural life.

Mountain bikers also find varied routes in Selva, with sporty descents and challenging climbs. A major highlight is the HERO Südtirol Dolomites, one of the toughest MTB events in the scene.

In winter, Selva becomes a meeting point for skiers, snowboarders, tobogganers and snowshoe hikers. Direct access to the Sellaronda, the World Cup races in Val Gardena and winter highlights such as “Mountain Christmas” and the snow sculpture competition add even more variety.

There is also plenty to discover in Selva beyond sports and outdoor activities. Anyone looking for a quieter day on holiday can relax in one of the local wellness hotels or explore the sights in the village and surrounding area. 

Val Gardena’s churches and chapels are particularly worth seeing, including the parish church of “Maria Himmelfahrt” and the Chapel of St. Sylvester in the Vallunga valley. Many of these sacred buildings feature works by local sculptors and woodcarvers.

Another worthwhile destination is the ruins of Wolkenstein Castle, which gave the village at the foot of the Sella massif its name.

Events also play an important role in Selva: from the Trailhunt-Knödeljagd and the traditional cattle drive to the Gherdëina Craft Beer Festival.

In Selva, events and highlights provide variety throughout the year. In summer, sporting experiences, music, traditions and outdoor gatherings take centre stage, while winter delights with atmospheric moments, sporting competitions and special events set against the snowy backdrop of the Dolomites. Whether it is a cultural event, a traditional highlight, a culinary experience or an exciting competition, Selva offers guests the perfect opportunities in every season to discover the village from its lively and diverse side.