The fairy emerged from the sea 

Like a great open sea shell, just above the sea, Moena is delicately nestled between the rocks, on a bed of minerals and mountain fossils of extraordinary scientific interest. Its meadows that are blanketed by a layer of snow in the winter were once the floor of a sea as warm as the Indian Ocean. Today, it is a celebrated tourist locality of north-eastern Trentino and it is surrounded by the spectacular peaks of the Dolomites, such as the Latemar and Vallaccia summits, and the offshoots of the Costalunga pass.

The town stands at an altitude of 1,184 meters and gives a home to 2,500 residents, who belong to the Ladin speaking minority. Moena is the first town you come upon in the Val di Fassa from the direction of the nearby Val di Fiemme. Upon arrival in this sun-drenched valley, the visitor immediately has the sensation of having crossed the threshold into an exclusive, private domain. Its nickname, inherited from an ancient legend, best expresses all of its charm and allure: the Faerie of the Dolomites.

The main street in the elegant historic centre is lined with chic boutiques boasting the finest names in sports fashion, gracious tea rooms and sophisticated restaurants.

An élite destination for downhill skiers and snowboard masters, Moena can claim a connection with the largest skiing circuit in the world, the Dolomiti Superski, thanks to the network of modern lift systems of the “Tre Valli” Ski Area. Technically perfect slopes wind down from the Alpe di Lusia, whose mountain shelters are open day and night, right to Passo San Pellegrino, where the hotels command views of the ski trails.

Under the blanket of snow are meadows that fill with flowers as soon as winter gives way to spring. In the summer, Moena is famous for its flower-filled window boxes, which turn the entire town into a botanical garden. Nature can be felt and perceived all around, penetrating to the heart, up until late autumn. take a hike in the higher elevations along the “Trekking delle leggende”, follow cultural itineraries such as the “Sentiero della Pace” (Peace Trail) or take less challenging paths in a reinvigorating Nordic walking session. Cycling fans will find a long trail that crosses two valleys as well as surprising mountain bike routes.

What’s more, children are welcome everywhere. Only in Moena will you find three fantastic amusement parks surrounded by gardens, including the joyful Babylandia. From December to March, kids play in the snow with a fun-loving entertainment staff and have great fun on sleds of every shape and colour.