Seasonal Overview
Tourist Activities
Palazzo della Pittura (Museum)
Located in the heart of Falcade, the 'Palazzo della Pittura' (Palace of Painting) is dedicated to the local artist Augusto Murer, a renowned sculptor and painter. The museum houses a significant collection of his works, offering insight into his artistic journey and connection to the Dolomite landscape and its people. It serves as a cultural hub, hosting temporary exhibitions and events. It's an excellent option for a rainy day or to explore the artistic heritage of the region. Opening hours vary by season, usually open in high season (summer/winter) and by appointment in shoulder seasons. Entrance fee: approx. €5-7.
Ski Area Tre Valli (Falcade-San Pellegrino-Moena/Lusia)
Falcade offers direct access to the Tre Valli ski area, part of the Dolomiti Superski circuit, featuring approximately 100 km of interconnected slopes. The area boasts a diverse range of pistes: numerous blue runs for beginners and families (e.g., Le Buse slope), a good selection of red runs for intermediate skiers (e.g., Del Bosco, La Volata), and challenging black runs for experts (e.g., La VolatA, Cima Uomo). A well-equipped snowpark ('Sanpe Park') is available near Passo San Pellegrino. Lifts operate typically from early December to early April, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM. Daily ski pass prices range from approx. €50-€70 depending on the season and validity (Dolomiti Superski pass covers the entire area).
Val del Biois Hiking & Biking Trails
Falcade is the main hub for exploring the extensive network of trails in the Val del Biois. Routes vary from easy riverside walks (e.g., along the Biois stream, flat and family-friendly) to challenging high-altitude treks towards Marmolada or Civetta Massifs. Notable trails include: 'Sentiero Naturalistico di Falcade' (easy, educational), 'Giro del Lago Cavia' (moderate, scenic loop), and 'Alta Via delle Dolomiti n. 2' (sections accessible from Falcade). Many trails are also suitable for mountain biking, with specific signposting. Trail maps are available at the local tourist office.
Sport & Wellness
Alpe Lusia Bike Park
While located a short drive from Falcade (towards Moena), the Alpe Lusia Bike Park is a key summer attraction for mountain bikers in the wider Tre Valli area. It offers a variety of trails, from flow lines to technical downhill tracks, catering to different skill levels. The park is serviced by modern gondolas for easy ascent. Features include North Shore elements, berms, and jumps. Bike rentals and instructors are available on site. Operating hours: typically mid-June to mid-September, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Day pass around €30-35.
Dolomiti Sky Experience (Paragliding & Tandem Flights)
For an unparalleled view of the Dolomites, Dolomiti Sky Experience offers tandem paragliding flights from various launch sites in the vicinity of Falcade, often from Passo San Pellegrino or higher peaks accessible by lift. Experienced instructors guide participants through an exhilarating and safe flight experience, providing a unique aerial perspective of the valleys and mountain ranges. No prior experience is needed. Flights last approximately 15-30 minutes, depending on weather conditions. Price per flight: €120-150. Booking in advance is highly recommended. Primarily available in summer and early autumn when conditions are stable.
Falcade Sport Center (Centro Sportivo)
A multi-purpose sports facility offering various activities. In winter, it often includes an ice skating rink (seasonal). In summer, it might feature tennis courts, five-a-side football pitches, and a climbing wall. Some facilities may also offer indoor gym equipment. Check local schedules for opening hours and specific activity availability, as these can vary seasonally.
Cross-Country Ski Center (Centro Fondo Pietro Scola)
Located in the beautiful Pian della Valle, this cross-country ski center offers several groomed tracks for Nordic skiing. Total length of tracks approx. 10-15 km, ranging from easy loops to more challenging routes. Ski and boot rental available on-site, along with professional instruction. Ideal for both classic and skate skiing enthusiasts. Track access often requires a small daily fee (approx. €8-€12). Open during winter, dependent on snow conditions.
Lifts & Infrastructure
Ski Rental and Service 'Sport Falcade'
Located centrally in Falcade, Sport Falcade offers a comprehensive range of ski and snowboard rental equipment for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced enthusiasts. They provide high-quality brands, professional boot fitting services, and ski tuning and repair. Customers can reserve equipment online for convenience. Indicative prices: full ski set (skis, boots, poles) from €25-40 per day, depending on performance level. Open daily during winter season from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
Bus Service Agordo-Falcade-Passo San Pellegrino
The local public bus service connects Falcade with the broader Agordino valley and up to Passo San Pellegrino, providing essential transportation for residents and tourists. It allows access to neighboring villages, trailheads, and ski lifts without a car. During winter, dedicated ski buses (often free with a ski pass) run more frequently between accommodations and the ski lift base. Regular bus fares apply for other routes, typically a few euros depending on distance. Schedules vary by season, with increased frequency during peak tourist periods.
Molino-Le Buse Gondola
This modern gondola lift connects the village of Molino (Falcade, approx. 1100m) to the Le Buse plateau (approx. 1880m), serving as a primary gateway to the ski area. It offers comfortable transport for skiers and snowboarders in winter, and hikers and mountain bikers in summer. Capacity: 2400 people/hour. Operating hours typically align with the ski area for winter, and 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM in summer (mid-June to mid-September).
Sci e Snowboard Falcade School
Located at Molino, this accredited ski and snowboard school offers lessons for all ages and skill levels, from complete beginners to advanced technique refinement. Group lessons, private lessons, and specialized courses (e.g., freeride, telemark) are available. Instructors are highly qualified and often multilingual. Prices vary but typically start from €35/hour for private lessons and €150 for a week of group lessons. Equipment rental available on-site.
Useful Information
Falcade Tourist Information Office (Info Point)
Located in the town center, this essential service provides visitors with maps, brochures, event calendars, and personalized advice on activities, accommodations, and local attractions. Staff offers support for bookings, weather updates, and mountain conditions. Multilingual staff is usually available. Open daily during peak seasons, with reduced hours in shoulder seasons. Free WiFi access.
General Services
Local Gastronomy & Artisanal Shops
Falcade and the Biois Valley are renowned for their rich culinary traditions and local artisanal products. Visitors can explore various small shops offering typical Dolomite delicacies such as speck, cheeses (e.g., Zigher, Latteria di Agordo products), honey, wild berry jams, and grappas. There are also local artisans crafting wooden objects, traditional textiles, and souvenirs. These shops provide an authentic taste and feel of the region, perfect for gifts or enjoying local flavors. Specific shop names can vary, but most are concentrated around the main street of Falcade. Prices vary by product.
Rifugio Laresei (Ski Restaurant & Mountain Hut)
Situated at 1860m near the top of the Molino-Le Buse gondola, Rifugio Laresei is a popular stop for skiers and hikers. It offers panoramic views of the Dolomites, a self-service restaurant with a wide selection of traditional dishes, and a bar. Known for its sun terrace, it's a perfect spot for a lunch break or an aprés-ski drink. Open during winter ski season and summer hiking season. Average meal price: €15-€25.
Restaurant L'Aivaz
A renowned restaurant in Falcade known for its refined take on traditional Ladin and regional Italian cuisine. Emphasizes locally sourced ingredients, offering dishes like casunziei (stuffed pasta), goulash, and excellent wild game. Features a cozy, elegant atmosphere and an extensive wine list. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season. Average main course price: €18-€30.
Accommodation
Caratteristiche Ospitalità
Hotel San Pellegrino Terme & Wellness
Situated near Passo San Pellegrino, a short distance from Falcade, this hotel offers a blend of traditional mountain hospitality with modern wellness facilities. While not directly in Falcade, it's a prime option for guests seeking high-end relaxation after a day on the slopes or trails. The hotel boasts a comprehensive spa area with indoor and outdoor pools, various saunas, Turkish baths, and a range of beauty treatments and massages. Many rooms offer panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomites. It's often ski-in/ski-out for those using the San Pellegrino slopes. Room rates typically start from €150-250 per night for half-board.
Camping & Dolomiti Village
Located just outside the main village of Falcade, this well-equipped campsite offers pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, alongside comfortable bungalows and mobile homes. It's an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer a closer connection to nature. The village provides essential amenities such as sanitary facilities, a small shop, a bar/restaurant, and often includes a playground for children. It offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with direct access to hiking and cycling trails. Open from late spring to early autumn, and sometimes partially in winter for specific setups. Prices for pitches from €20-40 per night, bungalows from €80-150.
Hotel Stella Alpina
A traditional mountain hotel in Falcade, known for its warm hospitality and authentic Ladin atmosphere. Offers comfortable rooms, many with Dolomite views. Features include a restaurant serving local and Italian cuisine, a small wellness area with sauna and whirlpool, and often specific services for skiers (ski room) and hikers (packed lunches, trail advice). Style: Rustic yet elegant. Prices for a double room typically range from €80-€150 per night depending on season.