Val Badia, known in German as Gadertal, is one of the most scenic Ladin valleys in the Dolomites. Running north to south as a side valley of Val Pusteria, it is surrounded by some of the most famous dolomite massifs in Italy.

The valley's landscape is remarkably varied - from gentle, forested hills between Campolongo and Valparola passes to the steep rock walls of the Sella, Puez-Odle and Conturines groups, home to the striking Sasso di Santa Croce. In summer, the valley delights visitors with green pastures and alpine meadows, while in winter it transforms into a skier's paradise thanks to its proximity to Alta Badia and the Dolomiti Superski network. The vast highland plateaus of Fanes, Sennes and Fodara Vedla offer exceptional conditions for hiking and nature watching.

How to get there

• San Lorenzo di Sebato (Val Pusteria) - former SS 244 road, entrance to the valley from the north
• Campolongo Pass (1875 m) - access from Val Cordevole via SS 244
• Gardena Pass (2121 m) - access from Val Gardena via SS 243
• Valparola Pass (2168 m) and Falzarego Pass (2105 m) - access from the province of Belluno

Practical information

• The valley is mainly inhabited by the Ladin people, who have their own language and culture
• The region belongs to the Dolomiti Superski network - a great base for both winter and summer trips
• Access is possible via numerous mountain passes, some of which close in winter

The name Badia comes from the medieval Castel Badia monastery, founded in 1020 at the valley's entrance, while the German name Gadertal derives from the Gadera river flowing through the entire valley.