5 of the best mountain towns to visit in the Dolomites

With towering walls of limestone that glow pink at sunset, the Dolomites are the crowning jewel of northeast Italy. These UNESCO World Heritage-designated peaks are ripe for winter adventure — the mountains never look better than when you're tearing down snow-covered slopes or traversing icy forests and plateaus on cross-country skis. The Dolomiti Superski region spans the Trentino, Veneto and South Tyrol regions of Italy and encompasses 12 ski resorts and more than 745 miles of ski slopes. However, it's the towns and villages dotted amongst them that encompass the spirit of this Alpine region. These chalet-lined centres brim with rustic warmth, with many restaurants serving hearty, home-cooked food — ideal after a day on the slopes. Here are five of the best destinations to discover in the Dolomites.

1. Badia

Perched at 4,343ft, the Alpine village of Badia in South Tyrol has kept its traditional Ladin language and customs. And set in the heart of the Alta Badia ski resort, it's also an appealing springboard for skiing and snowboarding. Beyond the slopes, timber huts serve nourishing local dishes such as panicia (barley soup) and bales (dumplings); or try La Stüa de Michil, a Michelin-starred restaurant that has helped make Alta Badia the pinnacle of fine dining in the Dolomites.

Where to ski: The 25-mile Sellaronda circuit covers four passes in the shadow of the Gruppo del Sella massif. For an adrenaline rush, try the Gran Risa World Cup slope or the twisty, narrow Vallon-Boé black run, above the neighbouring village of Corvara.

2. Cortina d’Ampezzo

Long before Roger Moore dashed down its slopes in the 1981 Bond movie For Your Eyes Only, the ritzy, 4,016ft-high resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo held star appeal. Known as the ‘Queen of the Dolomites,’ the resort has drawn celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor and George Clooney with its film set-ready looks and immaculately groomed slopes. But amid the glitz and glamour is a charming village where you can put your feet up in one of several grand spa hotels, sip cocktails on a pretty piazza and dine in an Alpine-chic restaurant focused on showcasing traditional mountain ingredients, such as the Michelin-starred SanBrite.

Where to ski: Scenic pistes stretch more than 80 miles and cover three areas: Faloria Cristallo, Lagazuoi – 5 Torri – Giau Pass and Tofana (Socrepes). For a challenge, tackle the Olympia tour, where Olympic races were held in 1956, or rewind time on the epic, near-50-mile Great War Ski Tour, zipping past First World War posts and trenches.

3. Ortisei

In South Tyrol's Val Gardena valley, the 4,055ft-high town of Ortisei (Urtijëi in Ladin) wows with wraparound views of the jagged Dolomites. It has a baroque parish church, graceful 19^th-century architecture and a rich history of woodcarving, which travellers can explore on a visit to the Gardena Museum. In winter, Ortisei has a gentle buzz, as skiers cruise to the pedestrianised centre lined with cafes, restaurants and apres-ski bars. The town is a mellow base for cruising through sunny south-facing slopes, long intermediate runs and scenic wooded pistes — all with knockout views of the Odle mountain range.

Where to ski: Hop in a cable car and within minutes you’ll be at the Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s biggest Alpine pasture. A terrific area for beginners, its 39 miles of pistes include easy slopes, wide runs and reliable snow. Looking for more of a challenge? Venture further into Val Gardena to ski the Sellaronda.

4. Arabba

This small village's traditional Alpine chalets peer up at colossal peaks — including the highest in the region, the glacier-capped 10,711ft Marmolada. Arabba, in the Veneto region, endears with its looks, low-key atmosphere and high altitude, sitting pretty at a snow-sure 5,200ft. The downhill from here is second to none, but there are plenty of ways to explore the area, including snowshoeing through frosted forests and gliding through the backcountry on cross-country skis. Take the time to explore the historic Andraz Castle, a key symbol of the Fodom Valley, and learn more about Ladin culture at the Fodom Ladin Museum. Afterwards, warm mountain huts entice with game such as venison and chamois, served with polenta and hearty casseroles.

Where to ski: Lifts speed you to the Sellaronda circuit, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg — this region is heaven for intermediate skiers and happy cruisers. The 38 miles of slopes take you all the way up to the Marmolada glacier, where you’ll find deep powder snow from late November to early April, as well as uplifting 360-degree views of the Dolomites.

5. San Martino di Castrozza

On the southern side of Dolomiti Superski, the San Martino di Castrozza - Passo Rolle resort is an instant heart-stealer with its phenomenal views of the Pale di San Martino mountains, which blush pink at sundown. On the doorstep of the Paneveggio - Pale di San Martino Nature Park, the village of San Martino di Castrozza has impeccable eco credentials, with lifts and buses powered by 100% green energy. Bumping up its appeal are invigorating trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Those craving more action can try ski mountaineering, or try out the jumps at one of three snow parks.

Where to ski: There’s skiing for all levels, from beginner to expert, on 37 miles of well-groomed and nicely varied slopes. Thrill-seekers can try the Paradiso black run, while ski tourers and snowshoers can explore the Fradusta Glacier.