A LONG TRADITION
Cross Country Skiing
The tradition of cross-country skiing in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cross-country skiing is deeply rooted in Cortina d’Ampezzo’s sports history, being one of the first winter sports practiced here. This historical connection began in 1927, when Cortina hosted the Nordic Ski World Championships, followed by the first Palio di Fondo in 1936, the oldest competitive event in the Ampezzo Valley. The region’s international importance was confirmed in 1956 when Cortina hosted the Winter Olympics, including crosscountry skiing competitions. Cortina’s competitive trails, particularly those at Passo Tre Croci, have hosted high-level events like the European Student Championships and have been training grounds for legendary athletes. Among them are names like Maurilio De Zolt, Pietro Piller Cottrer, Silvio Fauner, Anna Comarella, and even Norwegian Ole Einar Bjørndalen, one of the greatest biathletes in history.
The Granfondo Dobbiaco-Cortina: a legendary event
Since 1977, the Granfondo Dobbiaco-Cortina has been an unmissable event in the cross-country skiing calendar, renowned for its route connecting two historic Dolomite communities and the breathtaking mountain scenery. The race almost started by accident, when heavy snowfall inspired former Olympian Alfredo “Fredy” Dibona to propose a competition. The first edition, organized in record time, saw 243 participants, with wins by Carla Alverà and the young Maurilio De Zolt. From the second edition onwards, the finish line was moved to the square in front of Cortina’s bell tower, adding a symbolic and recognizable detail to the race. Over the years, the Granfondo has gained international fame. In 2010, it hosted a stage of the prestigious Tour de Ski, and from 2016 to 2021, it was part of the Visma Ski Classics circuit, attracting an increasing number of participants, particularly from Scandinavian countries. Among the stars of the Granfondo are great names in cross-country skiing. Maria Canins dominated with 7 victories, while Eugenia Bitchougova holds the women’s record with 10 wins. Among the men, Maurilio De Zolt stands out with 6 victories, alongside champions like Bruno Debertolis and, in more recent years, Nordic skiers Britta Johansson Norgren and Tord Asle Gjerdalen, who have continued to make history at the event. Today, the Dobbiaco-Cortina is more than just a race: it is a celebration of sport, culture, and the beauty of the Dolomites, a symbol of the deep bond between the communities of Dobbiaco and Cortina that is renewed each year in the magic of the snow.
