Cortina d’Ampezzo Italy’s Olympic Alpine Star for 2026

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy’s legendary “Queen of the Dolomites,” is in full swing preparing to co-host the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics alongside Milan, with opening ceremonies now less than a year away in February 2026.

This picturesque Alpine gem, cradled in a valley by jagged UNESCO World Heritage limestone peaks that glow pink at sunset, first captured Olympic fame in 1956 and is now evolving from an exclusive European ski retreat into a vibrant global tourism powerhouse. Excitement builds as new venues rise, roads widen for easier access from Venice and beyond, and the town polishes its timeless blend of high-adrenaline winter sports and relaxed Italian mountain lifestyle—think bustling Corso Italia cafes serving steaming casunziei ravioli amid chic boutiques.

The news spotlights how these Games are redefining alpine travel: historic sites like the Olympia delle Tofane slopes get modern upgrades, a cutting-edge sliding track emerges for high-speed thrills, and year-round appeal grows with enhanced trails for summer hiking and cycling. Local leaders emphasize sustainability, ensuring infrastructure like athlete villages and luxury hotels respects the pristine landscape while boosting off-season visits from families, culture seekers, and adventure enthusiasts drawn to crisp air, cultural museums, and the town’s elegant hospitality.

Key Points

• Alpine skiing returns to Tofane’s legendary slopes.

• Brand-new track hosts bobsleigh, luge, skeleton.

• Curling fills refurbished historic Olympic Stadium.

• Wider roads and rail links ease Venice access.

• Fresh hotels and mobile athlete villages expand stays.

Bottom Line: As Cortina readies for Olympic spotlights, these smart upgrades fuse sport spectacle with enduring Italian alpine charm—inviting the world to savor pink-hued peaks, hearty cuisine, and trail adventures long after the flame dims, cementing its place as a forever destination.