Santa Caterina di Valfurva – smaller ski resort in Stelvio National Park
Santa Caterina is a ski resort located in the Stelvio National Park, in the Valfurva valley, below the mountain pass Passo Gavia. The town lies at an altitude of 1,740 metres above sea level and is mainly known for its native, a multiple world champion in downhill skiing Deborah Compagnoni.
The resort of Santa Caterina belongs to the Alta Valtellina ski area, and its size ranks it among the smaller centers. The size doesn’t mean that there are also small hills for skiing… But rather there are quality tracks mainly suitable for demanding and experienced skiers. In 2005 it was a place of the World Championship in Alpine skiing.
Santa Caterina Valfurva ski resort, Lombardy, Italy by Mike Thomas
The ski area is situated on the slopes of Cresta Sobretta mountain reaching an attitude of 2,775 meters above sea level. Slopes are predominantly oriented to the north, which ensures sufficient snow conditions until late spring.
There are mainly red and black runs and only 2 short blue runs, so the resort is not very suitable for less experienced skiers. In total, there are 35 kilometers of pistes, all of which are artificially snowed and regularly maintained.
Santa Caterina di Valfurva during the sunset, Lombardy by Gabriele Asnaghi
From the top of Cresta Sobretta, where you can get with the modern cable car, lead several unique red pistes to the center of Santa Caterina.
The recently opened two new red slopes are 2 km long, and start at a respectable height of 2,887 meters above sea level.
Santa Caterina di Valfurva during the summer, Lombardy by Klaus Nahr
In Santa Caterina you can use a common ski pass of all Alta Valtellina ski resorts, which allows you to enjoy unlimited skiing.
Santa Caterina is also suitable for those skiers who love freeride and extreme skiing. In the surroundings you will find 18 km of highly demanding cross-country trails, which become the venue of the World Cup.
Alta Valtellina skimap
Since it is one of the smaller centers, the infrastructure and Après-Ski activities are not so developed as in other larger resorts.
There are just a few hotels, restaurants and bars. However it is not so far from the nearby Bormio where you can visit the swimming pool, spas and enjoy wellness activities.