After all, this is not only a country of excellent summer beach holidays, famous for its stunning seaside resorts: It’s a very interesting and fun place to relax during the winter season. Italian winter mountain resorts attract tourists with excellent trails and well-equipped slopes, good infrastructure and amazing cuisine, coupled with an abundance of attractions and traditional Italian hospitality.
Sestriere ski resort- the most popular and oldest in Italy, founded in 1934. Getting to it is not difficult: fly by plane to Turin, located one hundred and ten kilometers from Sestrie, and then take a train, bus or car. The ski season here starts in December and ends at the end of April. But you can ride on a glacier all year round. In winter there is often snow here, followed by sunny weather, and in spring there are fogs. The resort has a lot of accommodation options: hotels, chalets, residences. Almost all hotels are located near the ski slopes; they have special buses that carry tourists to the ski lifts. Most of the slopes of this resort are suitable for confident skiers, but for beginners there are also one hundred and fifty kilometers of “blue” ski tracks. There are two hundred kilometers of “red” tracks, fifty kilometers of “black” ones, and they are all in excellent condition. The mountain slopes are served by hundreds of lifts. The resort can be divided into three ski areas: - “Monte Sizes”, at an altitude of two thousand six hundred meters; - “Monte Banqueta”, at an altitude of two thousand five hundred and fifty-five meters; - “Monte Fraiteve”, at an altitude of two thousand seven hundred and one meters. Mostly difficult trails are located in Monte Sizes. The resort will also be interesting for snowboarders, for whom there is a snowboard park, quarter pipe, and heli-skiing. In the evening, you can go to a cafe or restaurant to enjoy amazing dishes of Italian, French or other European cuisines. At night, discos open their doors to tourists.
Ski resort Courmayeur- the ski slopes of this resort pass among magnificent natural beauties: snow-capped mountain peaks, ancient forests. Experienced skiers who love fast descents along difficult trails love to relax in Courmayeur. Not far from the resort of Courmayeur there are several airports: Geneva, Turin, Milan, the resort is connected to them by high-speed rail. You can get here by bus from the following cities in Italy: Aosta, Turin, Milan. Ten buses go between them every day increased comfort. The ski season here starts in December and ends in April. Winters at the resort are snowy, with frequent snowfalls, but quite warm. Travelers also visit this winter Italian resort in the summer, because there are incredibly beautiful places and interesting hiking routes in the mountains. The resort has a large selection of hotels: from luxurious five-star hotels to economical three rubles. You can eat in restaurants and cafes offering tourists European cuisine. Also, at this resort you can go dog sledding, play billiards or bowling, and go to the skating rink. Hundreds of wonderful kilometers await tourists. mining ski slopes, served by thirty ski lifts, between which buses carrying skiers constantly run. Most of the slopes here are “red” or “black”, that is, suitable for confident skiers. The longest of them is six kilometers.
Ski resort Trento– located in the same name Italian province Trento. This is a whole complex of resorts, smoothly transitioning from one to another, with tens of kilometers of excellent trails of varying difficulty, a lot of hotels, attractions, restaurants, cafes, shops. The most famous of these resorts are Dolomiti Superski and Skirama Dolomiti. Since Trento has a domestic airport, you can easily reach it from any other airport. Winters at the resort are real alpine: frosty and snowy, with cloudy and sunny days replacing each other. The season starts in November and ends at the end of April. There are plenty of accommodation options here: modern hotels and traditional chalets. Total length The resort has more than seven hundred kilometers of pistes, and there are also fourteen snow parks.
The resort has both difficult trails and gentle, even ones. It is worth paying attention to the well-designed cruise routes that allow you to enjoy the local natural beauties region, and another such route gives the opportunity to travel around the Sella mountain range, admiring the views of beautiful valleys, small villages and farms, lost among the mountains. For family vacation We recommend going to the southwestern part of the Trento resort: there are almost no difficult trails, steep dangerous slopes, mostly the slopes are designed for beginner skiers and children.
Ski resort Canazei– this Italian winter resort stands on the Belvedere plateau, in the Val di Fassa, and is attractive to tourists who love flat skiing or snowboarding. A little to the side is the Pordoi Pass, located at an altitude of two thousand two hundred and thirty-nine meters, where you can ski on the most difficult trails, suitable only for professional skiers and extreme sports enthusiasts. The average winter temperature here is minus three degrees; rarely it can drop to minus six degrees. The season begins in December and ends in April, during which time there is quite heavy snowfall.
The routes are different: there are both difficult and easy descents. The total length of the slopes is two hundred kilometers, with four hundred and sixty lifts lifting vacationers to them. Between the Grohmann and Salei mountain peaks there is a snow park suitable for boarder cross. In Canazei, almost a hundred hotels await tourists, with different levels of service, for every taste and budget: villas, hostels, bungalows. There are many cafes and restaurants here. If you want to take a break from skiing, we recommend visiting the Eghes center to undergo a course of relaxing thalassotherapy, go to the sauna, and swim in the pool.
Ski resort Bormio– is located in the northern part of the country, in the picturesque Valtellina valley, belonging to the Lombardy region. It is well equipped and differs from other Italian winter resorts in its versatility: tourists come here both to ski on snow-covered mountain slopes and flat slopes, engage in various winter activities, and to undergo wellness procedures to one of the nine thermal springs located here.
Local waters help cope with skin problems, joint diseases and nervous system disorders. The closest airports to Bormio are in Tirano and Milan, from where you can reach your holiday destination in an hour. Winters are quite mild, but long, so the season starts from the beginning of November and ends at the end of April. But on the mountain peaks the snow does not melt, so skiing on the Stelvio Pass is possible all year round. Mostly the winter temperature here is minus six degrees, but sometimes the thermometer drops to minus fifteen. There is a fifty-kilometer network of tangled trails, partly located on the slopes of Cima Bianca. The longest route is eight kilometers: it starts from a mountain peak and ends near the city. Tourists are offered night skiing twice a week. Vacationers love to visit the local “snow park” at Cima Bianca, with an area of one hundred and fifty thousand square meters, at an altitude of two thousand three hundred meters. The resort is part of the Alta Valtellina ski complex, in addition to Bormio, which includes other Italian winter ski resorts - Livigno and San Colombano. If you have a single ski pass, you can ride them too. Specifically in Bormio there are three ski areas: - “Santa Caterina” - world-class competitions are regularly held here; - "Oga-Valdidentro"; - "Bormio-2000". The resort has many trails for tourists with different skill levels. There are also many hotels and restaurants here. But the prices are quite moderate, you can especially save money by purchasing a single “ski pass”, which opens up multifaceted opportunities
Ski resort Livigno– is located near the Swiss border, thirty kilometers from the resort of Bormio. Livigno is a fairly young resort, but it has already become one of the best in Europe and won the prestigious World Snow Award. Fans of freestyle skiing and snowboarding love to relax at this ski resort, as its mountain slopes are ideal for these sports. The height of the snow cover reaches two and a half meters. The season starts in November and ends in April. The resort of Livigno includes three small villages stretching along the valley for eight kilometers. There are two ski areas: - “Carozello”; - "Motolino". Their height above sea level is two thousand eight hundred meters. Motolino has more difficult slopes. These areas are suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers, because the slopes here are mainly “blue” and “red”. There are ski schools near the ski lifts, where they will be happy to teach you all the intricacies ski slopes. The total length of the resort's trails is hundreds of kilometers. There are twenty-eight lifts here. The longest descent is seven kilometers, and the elevation difference is from one thousand eight hundred sixteen to two thousand eight hundred meters. The total length of flat ski slopes is forty kilometers. Livigno has a boardercross track and a halfpipe. You can stay in apartments, chalets, cottages and hotels, many of which are located near the ski lifts and have beautiful views of the Alpine beauty from their windows. There are many restaurants, cafes, bars and discos in Livigno. At this resort you can also go dog sled racing, bowling, rock climbing, and horse riding.
Ski resort Cervinia- the “pearl” of the Italian Alps and the highest resort in the country, located in a beautiful mountain valley between the rock formations “Monte Cervino”, “Breithorn”, “Monte Rosa”, “Matterhorn”, “Castore”. The season starts at the end of October and ends in May. Winters here are very snowy, but not cold, with many sunny days. By the way, nearby there is a place called “Plateau Rosa Glacier”, located at an altitude of three and a half thousand meters. It is attractive for tourists because the skiing season here begins in June and ends in September.
Tourists who come on holiday to Cervinia have the opportunity to learn not only skiing, but also snowboarding. There are many “blue” slopes, so the resort is ideal for beginner skiers or families with children. Cervinia has one hundred and forty kilometers of excellent ski slopes, flat ski tracks, exciting mountain walking routes. Skiers are served by twenty-three lifts, including cable cars, gondolas, and funiculars. For snowboarders there is a “snowboard park” and a “halfpipe”. The resort's hotels are famous for their high level of service and different classes, but all of them will offer you picturesque views from the windows of their rooms.
Ski resort Val Gardena– is located in the northwestern part of the Italian Dolomites, and belongs to the Alto Adige district. It will be convenient to get here from the nearest airports: Verona - one hundred and ninety kilometers or from Innsbruck, one hundred and twenty kilometers. The ski season in Val Gardena starts at the beginning of November and ends at the end of April. All this time there has been heavy regular snowfall. Sometimes winter temperatures drop to minus twenty degrees. For holidaymakers in the resort of Val Gardena, we recommend taking the interesting circular route “Sella Ronda”, which includes twenty-six kilometers of descents. But for this you need to purchase a “Dolomita Superski” ski-pass. The resort has three ski areas: - “Ortisei”, at an altitude of one thousand two hundred thirty-six meters; - “Santa Cristina Val Gardena”, at an altitude of one thousand four hundred and twenty-six meters; - "Selva di Val Gardena", at an altitude of one thousand five hundred and twenty-six meters. The Santa Cristina trails have a total length of one hundred and seventy-five kilometers, many of them are illuminated at night. There are eighty-three lifts here. The longest descent in this zone is eight kilometers. The length of the flat routes is twenty-four kilometers. You can stay in hotels, cottages, chalets, hostels, apartments. At the resort you can take interesting walks, horse riding, play tennis on indoor courts, squash, bowling, and billiards. You can go to the Piz-Sella snowboard park, with border cross tracks and a gallery of figures.
Ski resort Dolomites – the largest Italian region for various ski sports, comprising twelve ski resorts, with a total length of slopes - one thousand two hundred and sixty kilometers, with four hundred and sixty lifts. The Dolomiti Superski has a single ski pass, which includes all the resorts of this complex: Val Gardena, Treves Valli, Val di Fassa, Vale Isarco, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Alta Pusteria", "Kronplatz", "Civetta", "Alta Badia", "San Martino", "Arabba-Marmolada", "Val di Fiemme". Dolomiti resorts are located in three Italian regions: Alto Adige, Trentino, Veneto. The season here starts in November and ends at the end of April. The Sella massif includes four areas: Val Gardena, Alta Badia, Marmolada Arabba, Val di Fassa - they are connected by a network of cable cars and excellent trails, so tourists can move between these resorts completely freely. All Dolomiti Superski resorts are unique and attract tourists with something of their own, but they all have a developed infrastructure and provide vacationers with a wide range of services and entertainment: SPA salons, swimming pools, restaurants, bars, shops, nightclubs.
A holiday at one of the most famous Italian ski resorts will become the brightest and most memorable page of your life and will be remembered for a long time.
Merano is the second largest city in the autonomous province of Bolzano (South Tyrol) in northern Italy, on the border with Austria. Merano is conveniently accessible from the airports of Milan (3 hours by car), Verona and Innsbruck (2 hours by car). The city is located in a valley, surrounded from the east and north by majestic mountain ranges, the height of which reaches 3335 m. Thanks This has created a very comfortable microclimate in Merano.
Merano is a city of festivals, with palace and medieval architecture, beautiful parks. There is a large Botanical Garden with a collection of unique plants; in the vicinity of Meran there are several castles, including Tyrol Castle, which gave its name to the Tyrol County, and Trautmansdorff Castle, the favorite vacation spot of the Austrian Empress Elizabeth. It was thanks to her that Merano gained fame as a resort town.
In the city center there is TermeMerano - a huge thermal complex with radon sources. The walls of the complex are made entirely of glass, allowing you to admire the panorama of the Alps. It features 25 swimming pools, a fitness center, huge complex saunas and steam rooms, a real “snow” room and many spa treatments.
Not far from Merano there is the Merano 2000 ski area, this is 40 km of slopes located at an altitude of 1680 - 2300 m. The lower lift station is located on the outskirts of Merano, a large gondola will take skiers to the slope in just 7 minutes. The ski area has 12 slopes (black - 2, red - 7, blue - 3), an AlpinBob attraction and a 3.8 km long toboggan run.
The Val di Fassa valley, well known to Russian skiers for a long time, is located in the northeast of the administrative region of Trentino, 185 km from Venice, 190 km from Verona and 170 km from Innsbruck, Austria. In the Val di Fassa there are five main resort villages, not counting Moena: Vigo di Fassa, Pozza di Fassa, Campitello, Canazei and Alba di Canazei (Penia). In total, there are about three hundred hotels and guesthouses in the valley, and the number of places for guests exceeds 50,000.
The Val di Fassa ski area is one of the best in Italy in terms of the level of hotels, technical equipment and quality of service. Well-known schools with highly professional instructors are located here. Prices for services are low, and the possibilities for varied recreation are extensive. Here you can find entertainment for every taste and in addition to skiing: shops, bars, restaurants, sports clubs and an ice palace, colorful bars and noisy discos, a modern wellness center, a cinema and bowling alley, kindergartens and a museum. The Val di Fassa has 60 modern ski lifts and 220 km of groomed pistes, of which 32% are blue, 60% are red, 24% are black. There are also 8 ski schools for adults and children, where 250 instructors work, including Russian speakers.
The four ski areas of Val di Fassa are connected by ski bus routes and a single DolomitiSuperski ski pass, which allows you to ski at any of the twelve resorts in the Dolomites region.
Hotels in the region: 1 · Length of trails: 35 km(black- 1 , red- 11 , blue- 7 ) · Lifts: chair- 11 , drag- 4 · Illuminated cross-country ski trails: 15 km · Snowparks: 2 · Height difference: 1250 m
The Alpe Cimbra ski area consists of two zones: Folgaria (74 km of slopes) and Lavarone (30 km of slopes). The highest altitude is 1850 m above sea level. A ski bus runs between both areas, which, if you have a ski pass, transports tourists from one ski area to another in 15 minutes free of charge every day. For snowboard lovers, there is a snowpark, there are trails for cross-country skiing, a sledding hill, and an ice skating rink where you can go ice skating.
The region is part of the Skirama-Dolomiti-Adamello-Brenta complex. The center of the Folgaria ski resort has a cozy 2.5 km pedestrian area with bars, restaurants and shops. Holidays in Folgaria are well suited for families with children because: travel time is only 1 hour from Verona airport; many inexpensive apartments, 3* and 4* hotels; An animation program is provided for children and adults; most ski slopes are protected from the wind by trees, which is comfortable for children; red or black runs are always duplicated by a blue easy run; there is a children's ski school; dog sledding center; 40 km of bike paths for special fat bike mountain bikes. Folgaria is the right choice for families with children, active groups and those who do not want to spend too much money.
Tarvisio – small resort region in northeastern Italy. It is located between the Julian and Carnic Alps, close to the borders of Slovenia and Austria. The resort is located on the ancient route leading from Central European countries to Italy, and was well known during the Roman Empire.
Today Tarvisio - modern center winter sports, and many tourists come here to ski or snowboard. It is especially popular with school groups. In 2003, the Winter Universiade was held here, and in 2007 the resort hosted the Alpine Skiing World Cup. Heavy snowfalls provide up to 250 cm of snow on the mountain slopes. A developed lift system, a snow park, evening ski slopes, equipment rental and a sports school allow you to have a quality and inexpensive holiday in Tarvisio.
Cervinia is one of the highest resorts in Europe - and the highest in Italy. Snow lies on the slopes from December to the end of May, and you can ski not only in Italy, but also in Switzerland.
Most of the resort's black pistes are located on Swiss territory, in Zermatt, and slopes for skiers and snowboarders with confident, but not professional experience, are located in the central part of the resort and the Laghi Cime Bianche area. The longest route in Cervinia, the Gran Pista, is 15 kilometers long and leads into the Valtornache valley. For beginner skiers, the slopes at Plan Maisons are best suited. In total, the resort has more than 200 kilometers of slopes, and the combined ski area occupies 360 kilometers. Cervinia is also famous for its off-piste slopes.
Snowboarders are welcome at the boarder park on Plateau Rosa, as well as at the fan parks, half pipes and border cross tracks in the Swiss part of the resort.
In addition, in Cervinia you can have a great rest after skiing; there are discos, restaurants, bars, a swimming pool and an outdoor skating rink.
Dizzying landscapes and proud peaks, shining in the sun, like the golden domes of giant temples. Sparkling clean air and snow-white pistes evenly covered with crisp snow. Ultra-modern ski lifts and professional instructors. And for those who do not like sports, but are in love with mountain landscapes - the silent splendor of Italian and villages scattered like fragments of diamonds at their foot, exploring which, studying local traditions and enogastronomy, is a real pleasure. It is impossible to imagine this spectacle without having been here at least once, and once you have seen it, it is impossible to forget.
Ski holidays in Italy. Photo dolomitisuperski.com
Formed 200 million years ago, the peaks of the Dolomites today stretch up to 3,000 m into the sky. Their name comes from Déodat de Dolomieu, a unique rock formation. Since 2009, the Dolomites have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Dolomites offer magical landscapes and a wide variety of ski slopes suitable for beginners.
Recently, you can admire the Dolomites online by going to Street View Google Maps.
The Alpine slopes of Italy have one distinctive feature - they are often united by ski areas and have common lift systems, so it can be quite difficult to draw clear boundaries between resort villages. Most often, tourists choose the eastern Dolomites for ski holidays, which are also called Dolomiti Superski. There are twelve major cities and villages: Val di Fassa, Val Gardena, Alta Badia, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Arabba, Kronplatz, Val di Fiemme, Alta Pusteria, San Martino di Castrozza, Tre Valli, Valle Isarco and Civetta with a total length of ski slopes of 1200 km and 496 lifts.
The length of the “black” routes is 120 km, “blue” - 360 km, and “red” - 720 km. This suggests that both professionals and amateur athletes, as well as inexperienced beginners who are starting to ski for the first time, can relax here.
Four resorts occupy a special place in this region: Arabba, Alta, Val di Fassa and Val Gardena. They represent the so-called Sella Ronda ski “carousel”, on which you can ski both clockwise (the direction is indicated by orange arrows) and against it (by green signs). Quality local trails Not only skiers, but also snowboarders will be able to appreciate it. This route may take experienced athletes about three hours, but the panoramas that open to the eye are not conducive to saving time and rushing; rather, you will want to stop the moments and enjoy them for as long as possible.
Dolomites. Photo by Thinkstock
The Alps in this area are composed of limestone and dolomite. Their slopes are almost vertical, and it seems that the mountains support the vault of heaven with their peaks. These landscapes are mesmerizing, and you can admire them endlessly. The highest point of the Dolomites is Mount Marmolada, its peak reaches an altitude of 3,343 meters above sea level.
Ski resorts
The western ski regions are called Dolomiti di Branda, where the largest resort villages are Monte Bondone, Passo Tonale, Val di Sole, Pinzolo and Madonna di Campiglio. The length of the ski slopes is 260 km, there are 103 lifts, including drag lifts, chair lifts, cabin lifts and funiculars.
Resorts located in the mountainous part of Italy offer their guests a wide variety of entertainment, including not only sports programs, but also cultural and health events, so not only visiting tourists, but also native Italians spend their winter holidays here.
SPA holiday in the Dolomites. Photo dolomitisuperski.com
In addition to excellent trails for skiers and snowboarders, most villages have indoor and outdoor skating rinks for lovers of figure skating, curling, and speed skating; routes have been developed and marked for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing; you can go horse-drawn or dog sledding at any time. For those who are not used to spending their entire vacation in one place, there is the opportunity to travel around northern Italy, for example, visit the amazing and mysterious.
Entertainment
But let's return to ski Italy. Here it is worth noting the presence of excellent areas and tracks for extreme athletes who prefer heli-skiing, freestyle, off-piste skiing, ski safaris, paragliding, half-pipe, jumps and other exciting types of entertainment that increase the level of adrenaline in the blood.
Val Gardena. Photo dolomitisuperski.com
Comfortable hotels offer excellent service and a wide variety of services: bowling, billiards, SPA salons, Wellness, saunas, beauty salons, massage. You can book a room in such a hotel through a local tour operator or directly from the manager. Guests who want not only to have a good rest, but also to enjoy the local flavor should stay in a private mini-hotel, which will allow them to communicate with their Italian hosts on a daily basis.
Holidays in Val Gardena. Photo dolomitisuperski.com
Northern Italian cuisine deserves special attention. Culinary masterpieces can be tasted in restaurants or small private cafes, where the owner will not only recommend the most delicious dish, but also keep company, start an intimate conversation or support the conversation, telling dozens of stories amazing stories, in some ways truthful, and in others embellished, which will create the appropriate atmosphere.
Ski resorts in Italy they began to develop quite a long time ago, so today there is a real snow-covered paradise, which has everything you need for a good rest. The excellent infrastructure is represented by countless cafes, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, discos, shops where you can buy not only souvenirs, but also clothes, equipment, jewelry and much, much more. Excellent transport interchange allows local residents and vacationers to easily travel from resort villages to almost any part of the country. Each town has representative offices of the world's leading banks, which allows you to travel with a credit card and not worry about cash.
Family holidays in the Alps
Do you want to combine a family trip with a ski vacation, but are you worried about the children? In resort villages you can always use the services of a nanny for children, and older children will have fun in the children's club, where they will not only communicate with peers under the supervision of experienced teachers, but will also learn the basics of skiing, ice skating and other winter activities.
Vacation with children. Photo by Thinkstock
When choosing ski resorts in Italy for your holiday, it is not at all necessary to take bulky equipment with you; here you can rent everything you need: cross-country and skiing, skates, snowboards, boots and more.
Skipass will help you save money. This plastic card with a magnetic strip or chip allows you to use any ski lift in the region for an unlimited number of times throughout the prepaid period. When purchasing a Skipass, the tourist is also given a small map on which all the routes in this region are indicated. Depending on the difficulty, each of them is designated by a certain color: blue - for beginners, red - for experienced athletes, black - for professionals.
Three difficulty levels of ski slopes. Photo: scitalia.it
Val di Fassa is a real ski paradise, entangled with ski lifts and excellent pistes, the length of which is 477 km. Altitude difference: from 1563 km to 2518 km. Vacationers also have bars, nightclubs, restaurants, discos, shops, swimming pools, skating rinks, a squash and tennis center, a riding school, and museums at their disposal. Separately, it is worth noting one of the main attractions of the region - Fischburg Castle, built during the Renaissance.
Arabba is a resort famous for its challenging trails located at altitudes of 1636 - 2550 meters. Here professional skiers and snowboarders hone their skills and enjoy the steep slopes.
Arabba. Photo dolomitisuperski.com
Cortina d'Ampezzo became famous back in 1956, becoming the capital of the Winter Olympic Games. This resort is located in a valley and is protected on all sides by mountain peaks. There are 70 hotels of varying levels of comfort constantly operating in the city. Ski slopes, 130 km long, are equipped at altitudes of 1224 - 3000 meters. This resort today has the status of one of the most popular tourist centers region and is considered elite. Tourists and guests are surrounded everywhere by an atmosphere of luxury, prosperity and pathos.
Cortina. Photo dolomitisuperski.com
There are about 200 km of trails in Cervinia, so if you wish, you can develop routes for your entire vacation, and they will never be repeated! This is a resort for those who come for vivid impressions and Italian flavor. It seems like it was specially created for noisy international companies.
Cervinia and the majestic Matterhorn peak. Photo dolomitisuperski.com
Another advantage of Cervinia is its proximity to and, which are only 190 km away. Some 2.5-3 hours - and you are in the fashion capital of the world, or snow-covered landscapes are replaced by water surfaces, palm trees and chirping birds. You can also head to the Swiss ski slopes or take an excursion to Lake Geneva, Lausanne or the French-speaking canton of Switzerland, Montreux. But it is not at all necessary to cross the border if your soul requires visiting palaces and museums - there are cities and Stresa nearby, ready to give their guests an unforgettable experience.
(province of Turin) - this is 100 km of ski slopes, passing at an altitude of up to 2400 meters, including cross-country ski slopes and 21 lifts. The season here lasts from early December to mid-April. The cost of a ski pass for adults is 34 euros per day or 160 euros for 5 days.
(province of Cuneo) allows skiers to ski on 80 kilometers of slopes and rise to altitudes of up to 2340 meters. At ski schools, experienced trainers provide individual and group training for beginners, as well as sports courses for more than high level. The complex operates from mid-December to the end of March. Skipass in high season costs 33 euros per day or 176 euros for 6 days.
Prince Albert of Monaco skiing in Limone Piedmont. Photo gettyimages.com
(province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola) - a superbly equipped ski station, part of the Monte Rosa Ski complex, offers its guests excellent slopes, designed for both beginners and professionals. There is an opportunity to practice any type of skiing. 38 km of slopes reach an altitude of 3260 meters, the season opens on December 22 and closes on March 31. The cost of a ski pass for an adult is 26 euros per day or 151 euros for 6 days.
Funicular in the ski resort "Monte Rosa Ski". Photo ski4people.it
() is considered a real paradise among ski lovers. Tourists have 24 km of trails at their disposal, reaching an altitude of 2940 meters. The season is open from early December to mid-April. Skipass in high season costs 44 euros per day or 200 euros for 6 days.
Descent down the snowy hills in Monte Rosa Ski - Alanya. Photo: alagna.it
(province of Cuneo) - 100 kilometers of ski slopes and 24 lifts - surrounded by a magnificent panorama of the Alps. Skipass in high season will cost 31 euros per day or 152 euros for 6 days.
Ski resort Mondole Ski - Artesina, Prato Nevoso, Frabosa Soprana. Photo: mondole.it
Lombardy
Winter tourism in is a whole complex of high-quality alpine centers, ideal for winter holidays surrounded by nature - from lakes with their mild climate to the most high peaks Alps The Lombardy Mountains offer ski lovers 110 peaks rising to 3,000 meters or more, on the slopes of which there are more than 70 ski stations, and 390 lifts connect hundreds of kilometers of ski slopes. The mountain valleys are crossed by 590 km of cross-country ski trails.
The starting point of the Central Alps is, without a doubt, the Valtellina valley, around which the main ski resorts of the region are located. The northernmost resorts of Lombardy are Livigno and Passo dello Stelvio, where you can ski even in summer.
Ski resorts of Lombardy. Photo neveitalia.it
In addition to skiing as such, Lombardy offers tourists magnificent landscapes and walks among pristine nature - the region has 22 natural parks, more than 60 nature reserves and 18 natural monuments, the main one among which is, without a doubt, the National natural Park Stelvio, covering 135 hectares.
The ski resort is located in the center of the Stelvio National Park in the province of Sondrio. This is one of the most famous resorts, famous primarily for the fact that important international competitions in northern skiing disciplines are held here. 35 kilometers of downhill slopes reach 2887 meters in altitude. The resort is open from early December to mid-April, a full-day ski pass for an adult in high season costs 39 euros, for 6 days - 185 euros.
Ski slopes of Santa Caterina Valfurva. Photo: santacaterina.it
The summer ski resort is located in the province of Sondrio, on the border with the region and Switzerland. This is the largest summer ski center in the Alps. 10 lifts take tourists to Mount Monte Cristallo, where at an altitude of 2758 to 3450 meters tourists have 30 kilometers of ski slopes at their disposal. This resort is open from early June to mid-November. The cost of a Skipass for an adult for the whole day is 38 euros, for 6 days - 184 euros.
(province of Sondrio) is located a stone's throw from Switzerland, in a wide mountain valley at an altitude of 1816 meters. This perfect place For those who are passionate about cross-country skiing, there is a 42 km long ring ski track and many facilities for snowboarding and freestyle skiing. Ski slopes with a total length of 115 km reach an altitude of 2785 meters. The resort is open from late November to early May. The cost of a ski pass for adults is 43 euros for the whole day, or 215 euros for 6 days.
Livigno. Photo amipmorcelli.it
(province of Sondrio) is an ancient town located in the Valtellina valley, at an altitude of 1225 meters above sea level. Since the mid-19th century, it has become one of the most popular ski centers in the Alps. The Alta Valtellina ski resort, of which Bormio is part, has mountain trails, stretching for a total of 170 km. The resort of Bormio offers 37 km of ski slopes of varying difficulty levels, reaching altitudes of up to 3000 meters. This ski station is known for the largest altitude difference (1800 meters) among all ski resorts in Italy. The winter season here begins in mid-November and ends in mid-April. The cost of a ski pass for an adult in high season is about 40 euros for one day or 185 euros for 6 days.
Relax in the thermal baths in the resort of Bormio. Photo: bagnidibormio.it
The ski resort (province of Sondrio) is located a few kilometers from the border with Switzerland and is an ideal place for lovers of active winter recreation; snow cover here is guaranteed from November to May. Numerous ski slopes, with a total length of more than 50 km, reach an altitude of 2950 meters and are served by a network of modern ski lifts. The cost of a ski pass for an adult in high season is 36 euros for one day or 171 for 6 consecutive days.
The resort is one of the most beautiful places in Lombardy, the main settlement of which is the ancient mountain village of Ponte di Legno, located in the province of Brescia, near the border with the Trentino-Alto Adige region, at an altitude of 1200 meters above sea level. The season at the Adamello Ski resort lasts from the end of October to the end of April. Modern ski lifts allow skiers to rise to heights from 1250 to 2150 meters. The cost of a ski pass for an adult in high season is 39 euros per day or 196 euros for 6 days.
One of the lifts at the Adamello Ski resort. Photo: adamelloski.com
Trentino - Alto Adige
The region is perhaps the most desirable and popular destination for all tourists interested in winter sports. The Trentino-Alto Adige region is home to the peaks of the Dolomites and magnificent alpine nature - spruce, pines, cedars and larches create an unforgettable panorama of mountain forests. In addition to the impressive scenery, the resorts of the province of Trento offer lovers of active winter recreation ski stations with modern, high-level equipment; the quality of the ski slopes themselves is always maintained in excellent condition. mountain range Ortler is located in the Stelvio National Natural Park.
Trentino Alto Adige is an ideal destination for both skiers and snowboarders, as well as those who prefer to sled or snowshoe down the mountain. The region's ski resorts are also attractive for those who are far from winter sports - here you can take naturalistic excursions, take cable cars to the most beautiful peaks of the Alps, visit museums, taste food and dishes local cuisine, which was significantly influenced by neighboring Austria. And besides, in Trentino - Alto Adige, a ski holiday can be perfectly combined with moments of rest and relaxation in thermal baths and spa centers, of which there are many in the region. Some of the most famous are Peio, Rifugio Bella Vista in the Valsenales valley with the highest sauna in Europe, located at an altitude of 2845 meters, the spa in Andalo, the wellness center on the mountain Plan De Corones, the spa -center in Ortisei, baths in Merano, Rabbi's Baths in the Val di Sole.
Ski resorts of Trentino. Photo neveitalia.it
Ski resorts of Alto Adige. Photo neveitalia.it
It is part of one of the world's largest ski resorts, Dolomiti Superski, with its 1,200 km of ski slopes, which is located in several regions of Italy - Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Val di Fassa has 120 km of slopes on the mountain slopes, which pass at an altitude of up to 2950 meters above sea level, as well as 60 km of cross-country ski trails. Basic settlements of this resort - Canazei, Campitello di Fassa, Vigo di Fassa, Pozza di Fassa, Carezza, Pordoi, Sorga. The resort is open to tourists from early December to mid-April; the cost of a ski pass for an adult in high season is 44 euros for one day or 225 euros for 6 days.
The ski resort includes the villages of Madonna di Campiglio, and offers 150 km of ski slopes at altitudes from 850 to 2500 meters of all difficulty levels. There are five snowparks open to snowboarding enthusiasts, the most famous of which is Ursus Snowpark, one of the top five snowparks in the Alps, located in Madonna di Campiglio. This resort is easily reached by the Dolomiti express train from Trento. The cost of a ski pass for an adult is about 40 euros for the whole day or 198 euros for 6 days.
Extreme sports in Madonna di Campiglio: freeride with paragliding. Photo by campigliodolomiti. it
The ski resort is located in the very southeast of the province of Trento, surrounded by uniquely beautiful landscapes. Skiers have at their disposal 74 km of well-equipped pistes on the slopes, as well as 35 km of cross-country trails in the mountain center of Passo Coe (at an altitude of 1,610 meters) and 14 km of cross-country trails in the center of Forte Cherle (at an altitude of 1,400 meters). The cost of a ski pass for an adult for the whole day is 37 euros or 198 euros for 6 days.
Resort - beautiful place in Trentino, famous for the beauty of its mountains. The ski center offers 57 kilometers of ski slopes at altitudes from 1404 to 2357 meters. 23 lifts deliver tourists to the beginning of the ski slopes. The cost of a ski pass for an adult for the whole day is 40 euros.
Mountain landscapes of San Martino di Castrozza. Photo fo to.dovesciare.it
This is a picturesque valley in which there are several ski centers, and the total length of ski slopes is 150 km. 46 new modern lifts allow tourists to quickly get to the start of the descent. In 2003, the international Nordic ski championship was held in Val di Fiemme. The cost of a single ski pass for the whole day is 43 euros.
Ski holidays in Val di Fiemme. Photo n eveitalia.it
The resort covers 13 villages, which are inhabited by 44 thousand inhabitants, and covers an area of 624 sq. km. All mountain villages- beautiful and hospitable - located in the area of ski resorts famous among ski lovers. The resort is part of the largest ski resort, Dolomiti Superski. Valle Isarco offers 143 km of ski slopes on the mountain slopes, in addition to 240 km of cross-country ski runs and 50 km of toboggan runs. 50 lifts of different types deliver tourists to the beginning of the ski slopes. The cost of a ski pass for an adult for the whole day is 40 euros.
The resort (Kronplatz / Plan de Corones) offers tourists 115 km of mountain slopes at altitudes from 995 to 2275 meters, surrounded by unique natural landscapes. Among the ski slopes of varying difficulty levels there are also five black slopes, the most famous of which is Silvester. Four trails are equipped for night skiing and sledding. The cost of a ski pass for an adult for the whole day is 49 euros.
Descending the slope of the Kronplatz resort. Photo d ovesciare.it
The ski complex is part of Dolomiti Superski and includes the ski centers Passo San Pellegrino, Moena - Alpe Lusia, Falcade and Bellamonte, which are connected by bus or ski lifts. Tourists have at their disposal about 100 km of trails of all difficulty levels (29 blue, 18 red and 7 black). 24 lifts take guests of the complex to a height of up to 2513 meters. The cost of a single ski pass for the whole day is 43 euros.
Small calm resort in the Val di Sole valley. This is the most ancient resort of this valley, its thermal waters were known back in the middle of the 17th century. In addition to the thermal baths, modern holidaymakers have 13 km of ski slopes at their disposal on slopes at altitudes from 1400 to 2400 meters. In addition, there are 18 km of racing ski slopes. 7 lifts of different types deliver tourists to the beginning of the ski slopes. One of them, the new Pejo 3000 funicular, takes tourists to a height of 3000 meters, to the Mantova mountain refuge. The cost of a ski pass for an adult for the whole day is 35 euros.
New lift "Pejo 3000". Photo n eveitalia.it
Veneto
The region has a long history and a long tradition of skiing and other winter sports. The most famous and most prestigious resort of Veneto - can be seen in one of the James Bond films “For Your Eyes Only”, this is where the famous ski chase scene was filmed.
However, the ski resorts of Veneto are not only Cortina d’Ampezzo. These are Arabba, Civetta, 3 Valli Dolomiti, Falcade, Misurina, Marmolada and other places where both Italians themselves and numerous guests from other countries love to spend their winter holidays.
To the attractiveness of the excellent snow-covered pistes, it is worth adding the unique landscapes of the most beautiful mountains in the Alps; some of the mountain peaks, such as the Marmolada, exceed 3000 meters. Mount Baldo, Mount Montello and the Foresta del Consiglio are favorite destinations for lovers of naturalistic walks.
Ski resorts in Veneto. Photo neveitalia.it
The resort is conveniently located in the wide, sunny Valle d'Ampezzo, surrounded by the majestic Dolomites. Three ski centers: Tofane, Faloria-Cristallo-Mietres and Lagazuoi - 5 Torri offer tourists (from beginners to experts) excellent ski slopes with a total length of 140 km, which lie at altitudes from 1050 to 2932 meters. In total, the resort has 45 blue slopes (55 km), 26 red (45 km) and 7 black (10 km). 38 modern lifts of various types deliver skiers to the beginning of the descent. The resort is open from late November to mid-April. Snow cover on 90% of the trails is supported by snow cannons. The cost of a ski pass for an adult for the whole day is 48 euros.
The resort has 85 km of ski slopes, including 18 blue, 14 red and 12 black. Tourists have at their disposal 28 comfortable, fast and spacious lifts of various types - from a four-seater chairlift cable car to the funicular, designed for 25 passengers, which allows you to rise to heights from 1602 to 3269 meters, admiring breathtaking panoramic views. At an altitude of 2000 meters there is a new snow park, Arababba Superpark. The resort offers routes of varying difficulty levels for freeriders, ski mountaineers and just snowshoes. The cost of a ski pass for an adult for the whole day is 45 euros.
View of the snow-capped Dolomites from the Arabba resort. Photo n eveitalia.it
The resort, located on the slopes of the mountain of the same name, Monte Civetta, 3218 meters high, offers tourists 80 km of ski slopes, part of the Dolomiti Superski complex, at an altitude of 1000-2100 meters, served by 25 ski lifts. In the territory resort complex There are four charming mountain villages: Alleghe, Selva di Cadore, Palafavera and Zoldo. Three quarters of the ski slopes are equipped with snow cannons. The resort is designed for skiers of all skill levels, with 24 blue runs, 18 red runs and 4 black runs. The cost of a ski pass for an adult for the whole day is 43 euros.
Ski resort Civetta. Photo skicivetta.com
How to get there
By car
Of course, it is best to go to the opening of the best ski resorts in a personal car. For travelers, the option of renting a car is available. By ordering a car in advance, while still at home, you can save a lot. “Italy in Russian” advises you to turn to the services of the popular giant service Rentalcars, multifunctional and simple, which will allow you to choose the most suitable car at home and receive it immediately upon arrival in Italy.
Taxi or transfer
For those who are accustomed to convenience, we recommend ordering a taxi in any city in Italy with a Russian-speaking driver. You can select and order a taxi through the convenient Kiwitaxi service: You just need to choose where and where you need to get to. At the specified time, in the specified place, your personal driver will be waiting for you with a sign with your name.
Winter resorts in Italy are very popular with holidaymakers all year round. Thanks to the developed infrastructure, the beauty of the Dolomites, proximity to France, Austria, Switzerland, as well as the opportunity to always go down to “non-sporting” Italy with a mild climate in winter and autumn, Italian ski resorts are extremely popular.
Introducing best ski resorts in Italy things to keep in mind if you are considering active winter holidays in the mountains.
List of the best ski resorts in Italy
- Cortina d'Ampezzo
Cortina d'Ampezzo
Cortina d'Ampezzo (photo: @architetturaeservizicortina)Cortina d'Ampezzo is one of the most popular ski resorts and is well known as a favorite holiday destination for the rich and famous. The city became a famous winter resort about 160 years ago when it was made popular place to start excursions to the Dolomites. It has hosted stages of many international sporting competitions, including the Winter Olympics in 1956, and now regularly hosts the World Ski Championships. Cortina d'Ampezzo is called the "Queen of the Dolomites".
Madonna di Campiglio
Madonna di Campiglio (photo: @redskyfall__) A winter resort in Italy, which is loved and appreciated all over the world. Madonna di Campiglio is part of the larger Skirama ski conglomerate, which also includes several other ski resorts. If Cortina d'Ampezzo is the Queen of the Dolomites, then Madonna di Campiglio is their pearl.
Cervinia
Cervinia (photo: @oxakujtim10) One of the most prestigious ski resorts in Italy, which is also beloved by VIP guests. Cervinia is located near the Italian-Swiss border and is one of the highest ski resorts in Europe. The advantage of Cervinia is that the resort is open to winter activities in both the summer and winter seasons.
Bormio
Bormio (photo: @fogscientist) Bormio is the perfect place for a beginner who wants to experience the atmosphere of good old Europe. This is a charming village in Lombardy, surrounded by beautiful alpine peaks. Bormio will become great place for a family holiday, its slopes are convenient for learning to ski.
Sestriere
Sestriere (photo: @lorigallacci) Sestriere is a great place to relax and go skiing. The resort is suitable for both beginners and fairly experienced skiers, and is especially popular with snowboarders. Sestriere hosts many sporting events, such as the Alpine Ski World Cup.
Arabba
Arabba (photo: @altercontact) Arabba unites the areas of Marmolada where you can ski at any time of the year. The ski resort offers a series of lifts connecting several slopes through different mountains and valleys, and this is an amazing opportunity to explore this fantastic area and enjoy the local nature.
Passo del Tonale
Passo del Tonale (photo: @emma_claes) Thanks to the altitude at which Passo del Tonale is located, the resort offers good snow cover for long periods of the year. Some of the slopes are especially good for beginners, making the winter resort of Passo del Tonale ideal for families.
Selva di Val Gardena
Selva di Val Gardena (photo: @valgardenadolomites) This Italian ski resort, located at an altitude of 1563 meters above sea level, is considered one of the best winter resorts in the country. This amazing place Recommended for visiting in summer for those who love trekking or just relaxing in the mountains. Selva di Val Gardena is located at the foot of the Sella mountain range, with easy access to the Sella Ronda.
Val di Fiemme
Val di Fiemme (photo: @serelodri75) Val di Fiemme offers a wide range of winter activities, including snowboarding, alpine skiing and ice skating. Like many resorts in the Dolomites, Val di Fiemme is listed World Heritage UNESCO.
Gressoney
Gressoney (photo: @doriano_targa) Let's move from the eastern part of the Alps to the western, to the famous Valle d'Aosta, where the Gressoney ski resort is located. This winter resort is well known for its location at the foot of Monte Rosa, the second most high mountain in Europe.
Val di Fassa
Val di Fassa (photo: @fredmortnphoto) Arriving in Val di Fassa, you will find yourself in a real fairy tale of the Dolomites. Judge for yourself: this Italian winter resort provides excellent skiing opportunities with active downhill and gentle slalom overlooking the Fassa, Sella, Sassolungo and Marmolada massifs. These dolomite giants magically turn pink at sunset, revealing stunning views before guests' eyes. The Val di Fassa resort is ideal for families with children and beginner skiers.
Courmayeur
Courmayeur (photo: @thefjuzin) The legendary Italian resort, which became popular back in the 18th century thanks to its thermal springs. Courmayeur today is one of the most fashionable ski resorts in Italy, including due to its proximity to France and the resort of Chamonix, together with which they form an extensive area for active winter recreation.
The serious attitude of the Italian authorities towards tourism already predetermines not only good tourism, but also in the mountains.
Excellent living conditions, a high level of service and stunning views make Italian ski resorts one of the best, and therefore most popular, in the world.
If you prefer low prices, excellent food and a unique atmosphere over luxury and comfort, then the ski resorts in Italy are made for you. Here, unlike similar recreation centers in France, Switzerland and Austria, the organizers and animators place the main emphasis on the festive mood and all kinds of entertainment events, and leave sports and physical activity in the background.
Another pleasant advantage of Italian ski resorts is the relatively low prices that are significantly lower than those established in other European countries. Forget about Eastern Europe and even about Andorra: for a small amount of money spent on purchasing a ticket to an Italian resort, you will get a lot of impressions and pleasant memories. The stunningly beautiful landscapes will not leave anyone indifferent. You can choose exactly the one ski area which you think suits you best. And there is plenty to choose from: 12 zones that cover areas of thousands of kilometers.
We have selected ten best ski resorts in Italy, which are worth your attention, and also calculated the approximate cost of a vacation on each of them.
- We recommend reading: tips for
The small village of Passo del Tonale is located at an altitude of 1880 meters above sea level. Nearby there is a mountain 3088 meters high, from where tourists are invited to descend. This resort is one of the few where snow lies from late October until May. It is for this reason that Passo Tonale has long been chosen by the Italian ski team. The slopes here are designed for both beginner skiers and intermediate-level athletes. And extreme and adventure seekers can get to the slopes of Mount Ponte di Legno. In Passo Tonale there are two schools where polite instructors teach skiing and snowboarding in English. The resort area is usually quiet; life and fun come here during holidays and weekends.
While visiting Passo Tonale, make sure to enjoy lunch at the Hotel Dimora Storica La Mirandola, which dates back to around the 12th century, and enjoy the amazing medieval atmosphere.
Where to stay
The three-star Hotel Adamello is a clear favorite among tourists who come here, and this is not surprising: excellent food, polite staff and a high level of service have done their job. A room for seven nights will cost you approximately 720 euros.
Other options
Bardonecchia and Madesimo are favorite places of the Italians themselves. Each of these hotels has small slopes on which it is very convenient to learn skiing.
Key Facts
- The resort is located at an altitude of 1885 meters;
- The height of the descents ranges from 1120 to 3015 meters;
- The length of the slopes is 100 kilometers, 17% blue (for beginners), 66% red (for experienced skiers), 17% black (for professionals);
- Snow coverage 100%.
Official website of the Passo Tonale resort: passotonale.it
Corvara in Badia for the experienced
(Corvara in Badia) is a small lively village, mainly aimed at couples. It is located right at the intersection of two ski slopes for experienced athletes. Through the Alta Badia area you can easily reach the Sella Ronda area, where there are many slopes for both beginners and advanced skiers. Here you can also find many cozy restaurants where you can have a snack after a breathtaking descent. It is also worth saying that Corvara offers some of the most beautiful sunsets: As the sun sets, the slopes of the Dolomites turn different shades of red, creating an indescribable play of colors. The landscapes around you are so amazing that you completely forget to look at your feet.
There are several luxury hotels in this cluster. The four-star La Perla Hotel in Corvara invites tourists to enjoy not only skiing or snowboarding, but also wonderful service and dishes from a local chef. Another four-star hotel, Posta Zirm, has gained popularity due to its excellent restaurant and luxurious spa.
In San Cassiano there is another hotel, the five-star Rosa Alpina. Each room will offer you a unique design. The hotel has two upscale restaurants with two Michelin stars.
Where to stay
The three-star La Plaza Hotel in Kovara is an excellent choice for those looking for a homely atmosphere away from home. In addition, you can use the services of a small spa center here. A week's stay at this hotel will cost you approximately 1,160 euros.
Other options
Hotel Kronplatz in South Tyrol (Sudtirol) with easy access to any of the nearby red and blue slopes.
The resort area of La Thuile in Aosta offers its guests the use of red and blue slopes, which are connected to the slopes of the French resort La Rosière www. larosiere.net/ for even more breathtaking slopes.
Key Facts
- The height of the descents ranges from 1005 to 3270 meters;
- The slopes are 433 kilometers long, 38% blue, 53% red, 3% black;
- Snow coverage 90%.
Alagna-Valsesia for professionals
The picturesque village of Alagna Valsesia, with its stone church and small farm buildings, is located in the huge Monterosa ski area. The nearby slopes are sure to please professional skiers and snowboarders: exciting slopes with many challenging challenges will not let anyone get bored. This place is not suitable for those who have only recently learned or are still learning to ski. This is also not a place for amateurs nightlife: the lights go out here almost immediately after dinner. If you are planning a large-scale rental for tomorrow, then you just need to get a good night's sleep.
There are only 15 kilometers of downhill in Alanya, but the village is connected to the nearby resorts of Gressoney and Champoluc, which offer tourists tens of kilometers of downhill. The village itself is located at an altitude of 1212 meters, but fast cable cars take you to the peaks at 3275 meters, from where stunning views open up.
Where to stay
Agriturismo Alagna is a beautifully restored old farmhouse located near the main funicular. The owners of the mini-hotel always warmly welcome guests, offering them comfortable rooms with wooden and stone decoration. One night and breakfast in this place will cost about 80-100 euros for two.
Other options
The town of Arabba is located in the Sella Ronda ski area, but this is the best place to start exploring the most amazing slopes. Not only do these have some of the steepest slopes in all of the Dolomites, but they also offer some of the most beautiful views in Italy.
Key Facts
- The resort is located at an altitude of 1200 meters;
- The slopes are 73 kilometers long, 17% blue, 72% red, 11% black;
- Snow coverage 97%.
You can check the current condition of the trails on the official website: www.visitmonterosa.com
Breuil-Cervinia for lovers of a safe holiday
(Breuil-Cervinia) – this resort, located at a great height, boasts the driest snow, which lies here from December to May. Cervinia offers tourists more than 150 kilometers of descent.
Cable cars connect this resort with the International Descent, the total length of which is 360 kilometers.
It is worth admitting that Cervinia is far from the most beautiful Italian resort: there are often ugly buildings that spoil the whole view. However, this place has no equal when it comes to sports entertainment. Numerous races of skiers and snowboarders of different skill levels are constantly held here. Sometimes it seems that people are skating here without stopping for lunch and sleep. In Cervinia there is the famous red descent of Ventina with a height of 4000 meters.
Where to stay
You will encounter the true hospitality of the mountain residents if you go on vacation to the four-star Bucaneve Hotel. The staff here wears traditional costumes, and each room exudes antiquity. Another advantage of this hotel, of course, is its location: the nearest ski lift can be reached in less than 5 minutes. A week's stay here will cost approximately 1,160 euros.
Other options
Cozy towns (Livigno) and Passo del Tonale (Passo del Tonale).
Key facts:
- The resort is located at an altitude of 2050 meters;
- The height of the descents ranges from 1525 to 3480 meters;
- 160 kilometers of slopes, 30% blue, 59% red, 11% black;
- Snow coverage 50%.
Cortina d'Ampezzo for romantics
The city of Cortina d'Ampezzo lies surrounded by mountains and on one of them, as well as in a chain of churches built many centuries ago. Despite remaining occupied by foreign invaders for centuries, including the Austrians and Americans in 1945, the city has managed to maintain its unique atmosphere, which continues to this day in every corner. While residents of neighboring cities speak German, the Cortinians prefer to communicate in the ancient Ladin language.
In Cortina you will find many slopes for skiers and snowboarders of different skill levels. All of them are divided into several zones, between which a bus runs. In the village itself, despite the fact that it is the center of the resort, all life does not revolve around mountains, snow, skis and snowboards. The main pedestrian street, Corso Italia, is home to numerous fashion designer boutiques and antique shops.
As dusk falls, Cortina comes alive. On the streets of the city there is almost a real parade of fur coats and other fur products, and closer to night, all owners of insulating clothing move to nearby bars and restaurants, where they discuss their day over a glass of fine wine.
In 1956, Cortina hosted the Winter Olympic Games, so there is no doubt about the quality of the slopes and equipment. However, in recent years, the resort authorities do not deny the fact that Cortina's funding has decreased significantly. But this does not bother the residents of Rome and Milan, who invariably go here to ski.
Where to stay
The four-star Ancora Hotel, with its stunning interior, has been attracting tourists for four decades thanks to its very convenient location. In addition, there is the most amazing restaurant in the area. Seven days in one of Ancora's rooms will cost you approximately 1,120 euros.
Other options
The market town of Ortisei is surrounded by stunning peaks. The local slopes require a leisurely descent, during which you can enjoy the beauty of the mountains. The small, quiet village of San Cassiano, located on three plains, has a unique atmosphere.
Key Facts
- The height of the descents ranges from 1225 to 2930 meters;
- 115 kilometers long slopes, 50% blue, 35% red, 15% black;
- Snow coverage 50%.
Sous d'Oulx for party lovers
Since the beginning of the 1970-80s of the last century (Sauze d’Oulx) had the reputation of a ski resort where parties play a bigger role than sports. You wouldn't see a soul on the downhill slopes in this area before noon. The charming village has gone through several global changes, but, fortunately, has not lost its special “party” atmosphere. In the city center, houses from the last century have been pushed aside by modern buildings in the Art Nouveau style. It is here that life in Sauze d'Oul is in full swing. The more you move away from the central streets, the more silence envelops you.
But despite all this, Sauze d'Oulse boasts some of the best slopes in Italy. They extend all the way to the resorts of Sansicario, Sestriere and the French town of Montegenevre. The total length of the slopes is about 400 kilometers, which are served by 66 ski lifts.
At the intersection of these numerous slopes there is a whole scattering of restaurants, hotels and other entertainment establishments. You don't have to be a fortune to dine here - prices in this area are very reasonable. Many bars often have live music, so you can enjoy a glass of wine and the stunning scenery outside to the sounds of light jazz.
Where to stay
It is worth noting that most hotels in Sauze d'Oulse do not deserve special attention, but it is still worth highlighting the three-star Chalet Faure & Spa hotel - an old house converted into an excellent hotel with a spa and its own wine bar. A week's stay in one of the rooms will cost you from 770 euros.
Other options
The villages (Madonna di Campiglio) and Cortina d'Amprezzo in the Dolomites offer their guests a richer and more vibrant nightlife.
Key Facts
- The resort is located at an altitude of 1510 meters;
- The height of the descents ranges from 1390 to 2825 meters;
- 400 kilometers of slopes, 25% blue, 55% red, 20% black;
- Snow coverage 60%.
Champoluc for a holiday with family and children
The Monterosa mountain range is not as popular as it deserves. The cute village (Champoluc) has a typical Italian atmosphere: stunning scenery, cozy bars and cafes, no queues both in shops and on the road. Moreover, there is a wonderful English ski school where the instructors speak several languages. These are highly qualified specialists from Italy and England, ready to teach everyone from young (from 4 years old) to old.
A special advantage of this resort is the childcare service. As a rule, Italians go on vacation with their whole family, leaving not only their children but also their parents at home, so there is always someone to look after the younger generation. However, if you decide to relax only with your children and give your parents the opportunity to take a break from you in their homeland, then you should definitely take care of your kids’ leisure time. And the Italian ski school Scuola Sci Champoluc will do it for you.
Where to stay
The four-star Relais des Glaciers boasts an excellent spa and a great location, just a seven-minute walk from the village's main square. The friendly staff will be happy to help you and will also provide you and your children with delicious food. A week's holiday here will cost you about 1000 euros.
Other options
Gressoney and Selva also provide childcare services
Key Facts
- The resort is located at an altitude of 1570 meters;
- The height of the descents ranges from 1200 to 3275 meters;
- The slopes are 73 kilometers long, 17% blue, 72% red, 11% black;
- Snow coverage 97%.
Livigno for lovers of silence
(Livigno) is one of the most remote ski resorts in Europe. The journey here from Innsbruck will take three hours at best. And we’re not even talking about Italian airports, located even further away. Nevertheless, long journey Livigno is worth it because of the well-equipped pistes, low prices and safe snow cover.
The village is located 10 kilometers from mountain road, which ends at the foot of a 1816-meter mountain called Little Tibet, located near the border with Switzerland. Numerous slopes start here, offering stunning views. Every year new ski lifts and slopes appear in Livigno, and new hotels open. Today, trails of medium difficulty predominate here.
It is also worth noting that in December a traditional ski marathon (35 kilometers) takes place in Livigno.
In addition to the numerous advantages of this resort, it is worth highlighting the fact that it is duty free. It seems that prices have frozen at the level of Napoleon times. A bottle of milk is often harder to find here than a case of whiskey.
Courmayeur for a weekend
Of course, when choosing a resort to visit for the weekend, it is of great importance to have an airport nearby, from where you can easily and quickly get there. (Courmayeur) is a two hour drive to and from Geneva. This traditional mountain village is located right on the slope of Mont Blanc.
Typically, Italians flock to Courmayeur late Friday afternoon. They leisurely stroll along the pedestrian street Via Roma, where there are a huge number of designer boutiques and cozy cocktail bars. Contrary to the general trend, in the morning there are not so many people wanting to ride on the slopes: everyone is sleeping off after a great Friday and Saturday evening.
Where to stay
The three-star Bouton d’Or provides its clients with spacious rooms, ample parking, and also boasts a good location: there are a lot of restaurants near the hotel to suit every taste. The cost for a week's stay in this place is about 840 euros.
Other options
The lively towns of Sauze d'Olux and nearby Sestriere will not disappoint your expectations: the service-location-price ratio is more than optimal.
Key Facts
- The resort is located at an altitude of 1225 meters;
- The height of the descents ranges from 1210 to 2755 meters;
- The slopes are 36 kilometers long, 27% blue, 59% red, 14% black;
- Snow coverage 70%. ski. Have a great descent!
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