With its UNESCO-accredited landscapes, activities throughout winter and summer, and its particular blend of European cuisines and culture, the Dolomites present an opportunity for you to own a unique ski property getaway. 

The region’s winning qualities recommend it for you whether you want a holiday home, retirement retreat or a property to build your investment portfolio. 

Let us introduce you to what makes the ‘pale mountains’ of Europe such an easy recommendation. 

A striking background to every slope

Why you should choose the Dolomites

While the Alps are dotted with famous ski resorts, the Dolomites are home to several of Italy’s finest. Including Drei-Zinnen, the top winner of the World Ski Awards Italy’s Best Ski Resort 2024, and Cortina D’Ampezzo and Val Gardena, two of the runners up. 

The Dolomites boast unrivaled scenery recognised by the UNESCO World Heritage committee for the “beauty and uniqueness of their landscape”. Mark Lightfoot, managing director of SnowOnly, tells us that the region is “very beautiful with incredible ski areas. It’s on most skiers’ bucket lists.” 

There are more than 1,200 kilometers of slopes to explore in the Dolomiti Superski area

In winter, the striking mountain peaks are covered in snow, offering more than 1,200 kilometers of slopes to explore in the Dolomiti Superski area, significant vertical drops for advanced skiers and viewing plateaus to rest and take in the scenery. 

When the snow has melted in summer, Dolomite visitors can explore the mountain range by its many hiking trails or cycling paths. This year-round appeal is great for holidays and increases the renting potential of any rental opportunities. 

Located right in the north of Italy, the crossing point into mainland Europe has developed a unique cuisine. Influenced by Austria and Hungary to the north, you will find particularly hearty Italian food on offer. A singular favourite is spaghetti bolognese mit speck – picture the traditional pasta dish with the addition of bacon. Perfect for those looking for a more relaxed apres-ski! 

The Dolomites are an equally stunning summer resort

A diverse community of new neighbours

If you plan to make the Dolomites your new home or even just a regular holiday stay, it’s good to know what kind of a community you will be moving into. 

As a large region of mountains dotted with resorts, there are many places you could call home. Each ski resort offers a different balance of residents, and you should visit to discover which distinct atmosphere most appeals to you. 

Synonymous with luxury, Cortina d’Ampezzo attracts affluent visitors from Milan and Venice. Home to high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and an exclusive social scene, it’s a hotspot for wealthy buyers looking for a cosmopolitan experience. 

A family-friendly destination, with a more food-focused apres, Val Gardena combines excellent ski facilities with affordable prices. Its charming villages are known for woodcarving traditions, lively festivals, and welcoming communities. Mark Lightfoot, managing director of SnowOnly says this resort is “Up and coming somewhere you may get a little more value for money”. 

Home to three Michelin-starred restaurants, Alta Badia is famous for its culinary scene. It’s also a quieter area than many other resorts, so if you’re looking for a holiday home or a retirement retreat this area could be worth prioritising. 

Catering to more advanced skiers, Arabba will draw fewer guests than a broader resort, making it less appealing as an investment opportunity. However it makes it easy to recommend to serious skiers wanting a holiday home. 

Popular among younger crowds, large chalets will frequently be in demand in Madonna di Campiglio – though you may want a reliable management agency to look after the property. Located on the fringes of the Dolomites, this resort offers a mix of glitz and natural beauty. 

Each resort retains its own personality, yet all share a commitment to preserving the Dolomites’ natural beauty and cultural heritage. 

A quiet retreat for serious skiers

What you need to know about buying in Italy

Purchasing property in Italy is a straightforward but detail-oriented process. Here are some key points to consider

The purchase process typically begins with a preliminary agreement (“Compromesso”), followed by the final notarial deed (“Rogito”). Both stages require legal oversight to ensure compliance with Italian laws. 

While EU citizens can buy property freely, non-EU buyers may face restrictions unless their country has reciprocal agreements with Italy. Consult a local attorney to navigate these complexities. 

Be aware of additional costs such as registration tax (“tassa di registro”), notary fees, and annual property taxes like IMU. These can vary based on whether the property is a primary or secondary residence. 

Many properties in the Dolomites are traditional chalets or historic homes that may require restoration. Make sure you budget for renovations and confirm compliance with preservation laws. 

Specific advice for buying in the Dolomites

The Dolomites’ unique characteristics present opportunities and challenges for property buyers. Here are some tailored tips: 

Local laws often require maintaining your property’s aesthetic features

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, many properties reflect the traditional Tyrolean chalet style. Though charming, local laws often require maintaining these aesthetic features, so be prepared to follow preservation guidelines. 

Even if you intend to use your property as a holiday home, strongly consider letting it when not in use as the Dolomites’ dual-season appeal makes it an attractive location for vacation rentals. High-demand areas like Cortina or Val Gardena can yield strong rental income during both winter and summer. 

Sustainable tourism is gaining traction in the Dolomites. Properties with eco-friendly features, such as energy-efficient heating systems or solar panels, can enhance both value and appeal to conscientious buyers. 

A more refined apres-ski

The Dolomites apres-ski is a unique experience

Apres-ski in the Dolomites can combine Alpine charm with Italian sophistication, offering a distinct departure from the rowdier scenes found in some European resorts. Though Madonna di Campiglio will give them a run for their money… Here, apres-ski revolves around refined experiences that celebrate good food, fine wine, and scenic beauty. 

You can easily end your days on the slopes with a glass of Lagrein or Prosecco on a sun-drenched terrace. Local specialties such as speck, polenta, and hearty pasta dishes provide the perfect complement to your drink. Many rifugi (mountain huts) offer gourmet dining with breathtaking panoramic views. 

Invest in a lifestyle, not just a property

Owning a ski property in the Dolomites is more than a financial decision—it’s an investment in an extraordinary lifestyle. From serene mountain living to the vibrant cultural offerings of local communities, the Dolomites promise an unparalleled quality of life. 

Understandably, with a large purchase such as buying a ski property, you will want to protect your budget. You don’t want currency fluctuations to rob you of a chance to get your dream property. The finance experts at Smart Currency Exchange can secure your budget from an exchange rate change using a Forward Contract. 

If you would like to learn more, book a free consultation today. 

Whether you’re drawn by the allure of a thriving rental market or the prospect of a peaceful retreat, the Dolomites provide a rare blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and modern luxury. Take the first step towards making this stunning region your home away from home and embrace a life where every season offers something extraordinary.