Truly a legend among the world class resorts, Cortina d'Ampezzo is Italy's most fashionable area as well as if "capital" for winter sports. An appealing town with a lively international atmosphere its warm and friendly despite its size. The Olympic city of 1956 is in the heart of the beautiful Dolomites, surrounded by forest and wide ski slopes, with the craggy red rocks of the mountains towering above it. Cortina is actually in the middle of five ski areas with very different conditions. The racing slopes are dominated by the impressive Tofana Peak, the highest in the area at 3,243 meters. Tofana is also the name of the Olympic downhill course on which Austria's ski hero Toni Sailer won his 3rd gold medal in 1956. A World Cup stop on the men's tour for many years, Cortina d'Ampezzo has become one of the most prestigious "Classic" events on the women's circuit. Three to four races take place during the World Cup week-end on its fast and demanding run with racers reaching speeds over 130 km/h. There is also lots of action downtown on main-street, a pedestrian area dominated by the Square Tower of the Church in Venetian style. There are also some superb shops and great restaurants nearby. Local ski star Kristian Ghedina runs one of the best eatery the town with his brothers -"The 5 Torri" definitely worth the trip. The Hotel de la Poste and the Miramonti are also excellent. Cortina d'Ampezzo, whose history goes back to the 15th Century, is also known for its bobsled runs made with natural ice.