Sustainability
San Vigilio Dolomites is home to two of South Tyrol's seven nature parks: Fanes-Senes-Braies and Puez-Odle, which together cover 56% of the destination's area. These parks were established to preserve and protect the region's natural heritage and biodiversity. As part of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Dolomites, they are recognized for their beauty and uniqueness. We all share the responsibility of safeguarding this heritage, and as guests, it is important to act thoughtfully and respectfully.
Over 31,000 hectares of the Fanes-Senes-Braies and Puez-Odle nature parks are also protected under Natura 2000, a European Union initiative aimed at safeguarding Europe's most valuable and threatened species and habitats within a network of protected areas. In the municipalities of Marebbe and San Martino in Badia, there are additional protected nature reserves, including about 10 natural monuments and 2 biotopes. These delicate and rare ecosystems represent a significant environmental wealth, and we all have a duty to protect them.
Individual travel by car accounts for the largest share of emissions and environmental impact during a vacation. To reduce our ecological footprint, we offer sustainable and alternative mobility solutions. With the "South Tyrol Transfer" service, you can conveniently travel from various train stations in South Tyrol directly to your accommodation—an eco-friendly option that can be booked in advance.
The best way to enjoy the stunning landscape of the Dolomites is on foot, by bike, or using public transportation. We are continuously working to improve the public transport network, including adding more bus services to reduce waiting times. At the same time, we encourage avoiding the use of private vehicles to reach certain destinations.
As a tourism cooperative, we have invested in the "AltoAdige Guest Pass" project. This card is provided free of charge to guests of our partner accommodations and allows the use of all public transportation as well as selected cable cars throughout South Tyrol.
We are committed to innovative technologies and support the use of emission-free and quiet means of transport. More than a decade ago, electric Segway scooters were already operating on Kronplatz, and the first electric vehicles—buses and cars—were traveling through San Vigilio. Today, E-mountain bikes, city E-bikes, and trekking E-bikes allow even beginners to explore the Dolomites.
To further promote electric mobility, we have installed four charging stations for electric cars—two in San Vigilio and two in San Martino. Additionally, several hotels in the region offer this service.
Why travel far when the best is right in front of you? You are in a unique region that offers breathtaking landscapes and a wide variety of experiences. From mountain hikes to cultural and culinary discoveries, there’s something for everyone.
While the average stay is 4.5 days, this time is hardly enough to experience all the highlights our region has to offer. Take your time to explore the surroundings at your own pace—for an authentic and unforgettable holiday.
If you’d like to bring your best friend along for your Dolomite vacation, you’ll find plenty of dog-friendly accommodations in San Vigilio di Marebbe and San Martino in Badia. These establishments warmly welcome both you and your four-legged companion, offering special areas for your pet’s comfort.
In the spirit of traditional Ladin hospitality, we make no distinctions among our guests. We look forward to welcoming you and your dog.
To ensure a pleasant stay without any surprises, we’ve compiled some tips and guidelines for appropriate behavior, so you can enjoy a carefree holiday with your dog.
Please note that livestock can suffer miscarriages due to parasites found in dog waste. Help us protect the farmers' work and the surrounding landscape.
12 tips for a vacation with your dog in South Tyrol
Discarding waste in nature harms the landscape, environment, and wildlife. Hikers are encouraged to carry their trash with them and dispose of it properly at their accommodations. Public waste bins are intended only for small items like candy wrappers or cigarette packs.
Waste separation should follow the instructions provided at your accommodation, while second-home owners are advised to inform themselves about local disposal options.
The region is committed to improving waste management and reducing paper consumption, including the use of recycled paper and digital communication, aiming for a 15% reduction by 2025. At Kronplatz, a snow groomer equipped with a waste compactor supports ecological waste disposal.
Our snow monitoring system allows us to produce snow efficiently while ensuring excellent slope quality. The system automatically detects when the required snow level is reached, enabling production of only the necessary amount.
To conserve resources, we use state-of-the-art snowmaking systems, including the world’s first hybrid snow groomer. This partially electric vehicle significantly reduces fuel consumption through its high level of electrification. Additionally, all snow groomers in the ski area are equipped with GPS systems to distribute snow precisely and save energy.
The snowmaking process for our slopes is environmentally friendly and aligned with the natural cycle. As the snow melts in spring, it replenishes the surface and groundwater reserves of the ski area. This water is then used for snowmaking in winter, minimizing the energy-intensive transport of water from the valley. In summer, the slopes are used for agricultural purposes.
To promote energy recovery, the waste heat from some lift systems is used to heat nearby restaurants. Additionally, we generate electricity through photovoltaic systems, helping to meet the energy needs of the ski area.
At Kronplatz, we are committed to protecting and promoting biodiversity as well as regenerating the local flora. Seeds collected from the summit are used for the revegetation and reforestation of surrounding meadows. This not only supports the natural regrowth of our areas but also helps preserve the local plant diversity.
At the summit of Kronplatz, we operate a central district heating plant powered by locally produced wood chips, avoiding the use of fossil fuels. This sustainable thermal energy is used to heat the buildings on Kronplatz, including the LUMEN Museum, the AlpiNN Restaurant, the Cron Restaurant, and the Berghaus Olymp.
To reduce traffic on Kronplatz, both staff and deliveries are transported via the lift systems. On-site, our team uses an e-bike with a trailer for various tasks, including waste collection during the summer—always in harmony with nature.
The area is not just a tourist attraction but also our home. Therefore, it is essential to keep it healthy and protect the rare flora and fauna of the Dolomites. One of our initiatives is the creation of biodiversity areas to safeguard pollinators and educate visitors about the crucial role these insects play in ecosystems. Biodiversity is the foundation of nature, agriculture, and our food systems. Bees and other pollinators are vital for the reproduction and spread of plants. Without them, the survival of many plant species would be at risk.
Monoculture farming and fertilizing meadows, which typically benefit only a few plant species, contribute to the decline in biodiversity. Our destination has decided to delay the mowing of public areas to provide more food for pollinators. Additionally, biodiversity islands with flower-rich plants have been created, not only to beautify our streets but also to serve as essential pollen sources for bees and other insects.
At Kronplatz, our ski area, we are equally dedicated to preserving and promoting biodiversity as well as regenerating local flora. Seeds collected from the summit are used for sowing and reforestation in the surrounding meadows. This supports not only the natural regrowth of our areas but also the conservation of plant diversity.
The Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park is home to 5 of the 7 owl species recorded in the province of South Tyrol. Owls serve as indicators of the ecosystem’s health. San Vigilio is committed to protecting these species through the "Owl Park San Vigilio." Located at the foot of the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, this facility features aviaries housing over 80 different birds of prey from around the world.
For ethical reasons, the park does not house any bird born and living in the wild unless it requires essential care. Rare animals that would face extinction in the wild also find refuge in the park. One of the park’s main pillars is sharing the extensive knowledge gathered over the years by falconer Mario. Educating visitors about the habits and lifestyles of birds of prey raises awareness about the respectful treatment of wildlife.
During your stay, you will often encounter animals that inhabit our mountains. Whether in the Owl Park, at the foot of the Sass de Putia, or on the blooming meadows of Fanes, there are many opportunities to observe magnificent birds of prey, deer, or marmots.
Please do not disturb or startle the animals in their natural habitat. Speak softly, avoid sudden movements, and always keep dogs on a leash. If you come across grazing animals, do not feed or pet them; instead, maintain a safe distance. Ensure that pasture gates are always closed after passing through.
