Cavalese, Italy, the same village that is preparing to host the cross-country ski events for the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic Games next winter, was bustling with thousands of skiers this weekend for the annual Marcialonga Worldloppet Ski Marathon. Just three weeks ago they also hosted the Tour de Ski World Cup, including the infamous final stage skiing up Alpe Cermis.

In the media lately, there have been questions about whether Italy is ready to host the Olympic Games. After spending my fifth Marcialonga in a row in Cavalese last weekend, where upwards of 8,000 skiers make the pilgrimage every January, I have no doubts they are ready to host the Olympic cross-country ski events next winter. Lago di Tesero Olympic stadium is also part of the Marcialonga and Tour de Ski courses. Last Sunday, Lumi guests who skied the Marcialonga were asking residents in town how they think the Olympics will compare to Marcialonga weekend. They emphasized that they “Live for the Marcialonga,” and nonchalantly said they're excited to host the Olympics in their village, as if it were a side-show to the Marcialonga.

It’s hard to capture the festive atmosphere of Marcialonga weekend in words, or fully imagine just how festive Cavalese will feel for the Olympics. Skiing through the narrow village streets, along the Olympic trails and beneath the towering spires of the Dolomites are all ski highlights around Cavalese, not to mention the homemade Italian food, warm hospitality and well paired wines.

Will you be part of the festivities in Cavalese next winter? Reach out to receive an itinerary for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic Games trips (filling fast), Tour de Ski, Dolomitenlauf & Marcialonga or Marcialonga & König Ludwig Lauf trips. Reserve your spot before March 31 to receive the $300/person early booking discount, although some trips will likely fill sooner.

See you on the trail,
Garrott
garrott@lumiexperiences.com
Founder & Olympian