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San Candido Ski Holidays
With its cobbled streets, pastel-coloured buildings, and stunning alpine backdrop, it feels like a storybook. At an altitude of 1,175m, the resort enjoys a snow-sure season and offers direct access to the expansive Three Peaks/ 3 Zinnen ski area, where 100km of well-groomed slopes span five interconnected mountains. Whether you're a beginner finding your feet or an intermediate skier looking to explore, the terrain here is varied yet accessible, making it a fantastic choice for those who want a relaxed but rewarding ski holiday. What really sets San Candido apart is its family-friendly appeal. The resort features gentle nursery slopes right in the centre and dedicated children’s areas and ski schools with patient, multilingual instructors. Beyond the pistes, the pedestrianised old town is a delight, with cosy cafés serving strudel and South Tyrolean specialities, boutique shops, and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. The blend of Italian dolce vita and Austrian Alpine tradition gives the town a unique charm that’s hard to resist. For those seeking more than just skiing, San Candido delivers. The Three Peaks Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site provides breathtaking scenery for snowshoeing and winter hikes, while the nearby cross-country skiing trails are some of the best in the region. Après-ski is relaxed but lively, with mountain huts serving hearty local dishes and mulled wine. Whether you’re here for the slopes, the culture, or simply to unwind in a stunning setting, San Candido offers a ski holiday that’s as charming as it is varied.
South Tyrolean hospitality is very evident in beautiful San Candido and the Drei Zinnen (3 peaks) are awe inspiring.
Rebecca Dodson, Sales Manager
Mountain facts
San Candido's ski area, particularly Mount Baranci, is part of the extensive 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski resort. The highest lift reaches 2,300m, while the resort sits at 1,175m. Within the 3 Zinnen area, you'll find a good mix of pistes: approximately 12km of black runs for the experts, 43km of red runs for intermediates, and 38km of blue runs for beginners and those looking to cruise. The lifts are modern and efficient, connecting the various mountains seamlessly, and there are a total of 20 ski lifts across the broader 3 Zinnen domain.
Snow conditions in San Candido
The 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski area, which includes San Candido, generally receives a good amount of snowfall. On average, the area sees around 178cm of snow annually, with approximately 13 snowfall days. While specific historical data for San Candido itself can vary, its location within the Dolomites generally ensures reliable snow cover throughout the season, complemented by extensive snow-making capabilities when needed. This allows for consistent and enjoyable skiing conditions from early winter well into spring.
Skiing in San Candido
San Candido is a dream for beginners and intermediates, offering a stress-free environment to progress on the slopes. The local Mount Baranci area is a standout, with its sheltered, tree-lined runs providing a gentle introduction to skiing - perfect for first-timers or families. Wide, well-groomed blues and forgiving reds wind their way back to the village, meaning you can ski straight to a cosy café for a well-earned break. The ski schools here are excellent, with patient instructors who make learning fun and accessible. For intermediates, the connection to the 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski area unlocks a fantastic variety of terrain, including flowing red pistes and a handful of more challenging black runs for those looking to push their skills further. Beyond downhill skiing, San Candido is a paradise for cross-country enthusiasts, with 200km of pristine trails weaving through the Alta Pusteria region—including the scenic Val Pusteria track, which starts right from the resort. For something different, night skiing on Monte Baranci adds a magical twist to the ski day, with floodlit slopes offering a unique après-ski experience. Whether you’re here to master the basics, explore scenic trails, or enjoy the slopes under the stars, San Candido delivers a wonderfully balanced winter sports getaway.
Snowboarding in San Candido
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Snowboarders will love San Candido’s relaxed vibe and varied terrain, making it a great choice for riders of all levels. The resort’s wide, well-maintained blue and red runs are ideal for perfecting carves and building confidence, while the interconnected 3 Zinnen Dolomites area adds plenty of scope for exploration. Though freestyle features aren’t the main focus, the wider ski region does include dedicated snowboard parks with jumps and rails for those looking to progress their tricks. Plus, the natural rollers and gentle off-piste sections around the resort provide fun, flowy riding without the need for steep, technical terrain. Various schools offer top-notch coaching for those keen to sharpen their skills, with private and group lessons tailored to all ages and abilities. The instructors understand the nuances of snowboarding, helping riders refine technique or master the basics in a supportive environment. And when it’s time to unwind, San Candido’s pedestrian-friendly centre means easy access to laid-back après spots, perfect for swapping stories over a well-deserved drink. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, this charming resort delivers a hassle-free snowboarding experience with plenty of alpine charm.
Accommodation in San Candido
From cosy rooms to expansive suites, San Candido has accommodation options to suit every taste. We’ve handpicked the best to make your trip as stress-free as possible!
What's available at San Candido ski resort?
Après-ski in San Candido
San Candido's après-ski scene is more about relaxed enjoyment than raucous parties, fitting perfectly with the resort's laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. After a day carving turns on the slopes, you'll find inviting mountain huts and cosy bars where you can unwind with a warm drink or a refreshing South Tyrolean beer. The focus here is less on booming music and dancing on tables, and more on good food, good company, and soaking in the beautiful Dolomite views.
- Located directly in front of the impressive Collegiate Church, Bar Café Kastro is a central and popular spot to grab a coffee, a local beer, or a glass of wine while enjoying the town's charming atmosphere.
- Uhrmacher's Weinstube (Enoiteca dell'Orologiario) is perfect for those who appreciate a fine selection of wines. This wine bar is highly regarded for its extensive cellar of local and Italian wines and its cosy, traditional ambience, perfect for a sophisticated end to the day.
- Botanic Wachtler Café Bistro is tucked away in a charming side street and is a bistro that offers a stylish lounge with large windows and a sunny terrace providing incredible views of Monte Baranci, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing Aperol Spritz after your ski day.
- Senfter's Café Bistro is a modern café and bistro known for its high-quality local meat products, including the famous speck IGP. It offers all-day service, from breakfast to aperitifs and traditional meals.
- While you won't find large, booming nightclubs in San Candido itself, spots in the broader 3 Zinnen Dolomites area do offer a more lively après-ski experience with DJs and live bands, particularly on weekends.
Facilities in San Candido
Beyond the slopes, San Candido offers a delightful mix of relaxation, culture, and convenience to round out your perfect winter getaway. The charming pedestrianised town centre invites leisurely strolls past boutique shops, traditional cafés serving strudel and strong Italian coffee, and the striking Collegiate Church with its medieval frescoes. Many hotels take relaxation seriously, boasting spa and wellness areas complete with indoor/ outdoor pools, panoramic saunas, and steam rooms, ideal for soothing tired muscles after a day on the mountain. For family fun, the Acquafun water park adds a splash of excitement with its slides and pools, ensuring there’s never a dull moment off the snow. Practicalities are well covered too, with top-quality ski rental shops offering the latest gear and hassle-free fittings. The resort’s excellent ski schools cater to all ages and abilities, while the free ski shuttle bus and reliable public transport make exploring the wider Alta Pusteria region effortless. Whether you’re here to unwind in wellness havens, dive into local culture, or simply enjoy the ease of a well-equipped resort, San Candido delivers on every level.
Facilities for children in San Candido
San Candido is one of the Alps' premier family ski destinations, combining child-friendly slopes with unforgettable off-piste adventures. The resort's dedicated children's areas on Mount Baranci are perfectly designed for young skiers, featuring gentle magic carpets, obstacle courses, and patient instructors who make learning fun through games. Some hotels offer kids' clubs and supervised snow play, allowing parents to enjoy their ski time worry-free. What sets San Candido apart is how it extends the family fun beyond skiing - the thrilling Fun Bob toboggan run (Italy's longest at 3.1km!) delivers giggles all winter long, while Olperl's Nature Park transforms into a magical winter wonderland with its interactive adventure trail. The family-friendly amenities continue in town, where the Acquafun water park provides warm aquatic excitement with its slides and pools, perfect for non-ski days. Little explorers will love the Dolomythos Museum, where dinosaur fossils and treasure hunts bring the Dolomites' ancient history to life. Thoughtful touches abound - from family-focused accommodations with playrooms and early children's dinners to convenient ski-in, ski-out locations. With its winning combination of safety, entertainment and authentic Alpine charm, San Candido takes the stress out of family ski holidays while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Why choose Erna Low for San Candido skiing holidays?
Incredible value holidays: We’ll beat any competitor’s price, giving you the best value for money.
Huge choice of accommodation: Choose from bargain breaks, 5-star premium deals and so much more.
Customisable travel: We specialise in fully customisable ski holidays; offering a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Fully protected bookings: We’re ABTOT and ATOL members and abide by their Code of Conduct.
5-star Trustpilot reviews: We pride ourselves on the service we provide, which is why out of 10 of our clients would recommend us.
San Candido is not well known in the UK but offers a really lovely peaceful experience with some stunning scenery
Jane Bolton, Product Director
