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Adventures by Land: Skiing in Italy
If you’re looking for a long ski season and world-class ski resorts Italy is the perfect choice. You will find breathtaking views, exclusive resorts and world-class competitions in Italy’s mountains. While there are many to choose from, here are 5 extraordinary Italy ski destinations that will ‘peak’ your interest:
Cortina d’Ampezzo
The ‘Queen of the Dolomites’ in the Veneto region can claim its spot as a top ski destination. Hosting the Ski World Cup Finals in 2020, as well as the 2021 Alpine World Championships, 2026 Winter Olympics and the 2026 Winter Paralympics gives this destination plenty of bragging rights. Besides skiing, shopping, visiting museums and galleries, the area has inspired the likes of Hemingway and was a location for James Bond in For Your Eyes Only, so take in the scene and enjoy.
Livigno
Nicknamed “Little Tibet” Livigno is an impressive destination in the Lombardy region with 115km of slopes and the Mottolino Snowpark with rails, half-pipes and professional-sized jumps. You’ll find competitions like the World Rookie Fest for young snowboarders and the cross-country skiing competition Sgambeda. Ecologically conscious Livigno has made all their food service items biodegradable and compostable, and made their city busy system free to cut emissions. You also might want to check out the Italian Snowmobile Championship held there. Enjoy the duty-free shopping at one of the 250 shops or as an alternative take a fat-bike down the slopes. Each year ends with the European Freestyle and Snowboard Cup.
Alta Badia
It’s no surprise the region of Südtirol known as South Tyrol draws a lot of winter sports enthusiasts. Slopes include the famous Sellaronda, well-known as one of the most impressive ski circuits in the Italian Alps. Special sunrise skiing sessions feature slopes perfectly groomed overnight and the best part: Enrosadira, or Alpenglow when the sunrise paints the Dolomites with a beautiful red and purple glow. For wine lovers try a Sommelier on the slopes with a sampling of South Tyrol’s finest wines in participating ski huts. Not only is this a prime destination for skiing, but this area boasts exquisite dining options, including two Michelin-starred restaurants.
Pontedilegno-Tonale Passo Tonale
Skiers and snowboarders delight at this area between Lombardy and Trentino, perfect for experts and beginners alike with. Choose from over 41 slopes including a real alpine glacier. A not-to-be-missed event is the Ice Music Festival, held at the EQ Ice Dome a large igloo 2600 meters above sea level on the Presena Glacier. What makes this truly otherworldly are the 16 musical instruments sculpted in ice by the artist Tim Linhart. From January to March hear classical, jazz, pop, folk music performed by world-renowned musicians.
Mount Etna
How often do you get to ski on an active volcano? On a clear day you’ll see spectacular views of the sea and islands around Sicily as you hit these slopes. This is also a great a place for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing to see these vistas. But if the weather is creating fresh powder put on the skiis or snowboard and head for the slopes! With a short journey from the warmth of the sea, Mount Etna is a great destination for those who want skiing and beach time all in one spectacular destination.
When deciding on locations, another consideration is the luxury ski vacation option known as ‘The British Chalet’. These chalets offer an exclusive experience of staying in privacy of a chalet complete with your own personal staff and are available at select locations. If you’re ready to hit the slopes contact our Travel Designers to book our Magic Winter in the Dolomites Tour or let us build a custom trip based on your desires.
Start planning your trip to Italy!
Jennie Olson Six
Cultural Italy Staff Writer
