Italian relaxation

Continuing our look at Europe’s 51 best ski resorts, Italy is a fabulous winter destination for families and enthusiasts alike. The major winter sports resorts are affordable, chic and far more family suited than many of the more traditional or demanding destinations in France or Switzerland, yet still provide thrilling challenges for the more adventurous. Many venues are especially geared towards children and younger families, and the range of cheap, versatile accommodation and surprisingly low in-resort pricing makes Italy an extremely attractive proposition.

Many of the best resorts are based around the vast Dolomites, with thousands of kilometers of great runs, lifts and pistes, all within easy reach of the country’s excellent transport network. From the effortless cool of Madonna di Campiglio to the village atmosphere of Dimaro in the Val di Sole, the Italian mountains provide terrific facilities surrounded by idyllic, dramatic scenery.

Alagna

Part of the expansive Monterosa ski region, Alagna is a charming little village whose sleepy atmosphere is a stark contrast to the big thrills to be found off-piste. The resort is very small, with just 15 km of marked runs, but it’s when you venture off the beaten track that Alagna comes into its own. There is a vast amount of glorious uncharted terrain which is a freerider’s dream. There are demanding challenges for even the most experienced skier, and this is country best avoided by the novice.

Another selling point of Alagna is its quiet nightlife. There’s little excitement to be found after dark, so if you are looking for a winter sports destination that focuses entirely on the thrills to be had by day, this is the place to head. When dawn comes, you can head to a breathless 3,275 meters to experience some of the finest, and quietest, off-piste adventures Italy has to offer – think Chamonix or Val d’Isère but without the crowds.

Cervinia

Situated within striking distance of Zermatt across the Swiss border, Cervinia boasts an impressive 160 km of glorious, snow-drenched pistes married to the finest Italian nightlife and shopping. The resort is renowned for its lengthy runs, with gentle gradients and easy skiing perfectly suited to novices and juniors. The high altitude also ensures that snow coverage is excellent throughout the December to April season.

Intermediates will love the challenge of the “Ventina” run, a meandering 8-km piste that descends over 1,800 meters through its course; the astonishing views and glorious scenery make this a wonderful experience. The village itself is less striking, though most visitors will be happy to trade a picture postcard village setting for the splendor of the surrounding mountains and the fantastic quality slopes. By purchasing a pass, visitors can also access a further 200 km of pistes at Zermatt across the border in Switzerland, though the depth of choice in Cervinia should satisfy most guests.

Cortina d’Ampezzo

The Dolomites are home to some of the most iconic ski resorts in the world, and Cortina d’Ampezzo is perhaps the chicest of all. Around two hours from Venice airport, the resort is based around an ancient town, which retains much of its iconic architecture, including a central bell tower and grand mansions, while providing a vibrant modern ambiance, especially after dark. The resort played host to the 1956 Winter Olympics, making it a popular destination for top skiers ever since.

Skiers and snowboard enthusiasts will revel in the 115 km of piste runs, which are heavily graded in favor of experts and skilled intermediates. There are thrilling black runs to provide a real adventure, while those venturing off-piste will find superb snow conditions both locally and in the wider Sella Ronda circuit.

Cortina itself boasts the glamour and appeal of a St. Moritz while remaining uncrowded and unspoiled. Wine bars, nightclubs and cool restaurants are the preserve of the wealthier visitor, while good shops and bars abound.

Courmayeur

Found at the Southern End of Mont Blanc, within a two-hour drive from Turin and Geneva, Courmayeur is an easily accessed, traditional resort whose visitors often arrive for the nightlife and après-ski, leaving the excellent slopes relatively uncrowded. When it comes to fine dining, cocktail bar ambience, and high mountain restaurants, this resort excels.

On the slopes, the challenges are significant; there is a generous ski area, though most can be covered on a short break, and a majority of runs are graded for intermediates and the more confident visitor. The top of the lift network provides access to some thrilling runs down from the Cresta d’Arp’s 2,755 meter summit, and the Vallée Blanche, with its steep and challenging descents, can be reached by an upgraded cable car system. There are excellent routes to be found off-piste, though beginners are not advised to take on some of the more demanding terrain.

La Thuile

One of Italy’s purpose-built ski resorts, La Thuile has plentiful gentle slopes and wide expanses of deep snow ideal for those seeking a relaxed break and easy skiing. It is very family friendly, with high quality, free childcare, and a choice of nursery slopes for those just starting out. That said, a short trip to La Rosière provides more challenging runs; across the two centers, almost 150 km of pistes offer plenty for all levels of skier.

There’s lots to explore off-piste too, so the more adventurous shouldn’t miss out. It’s a popular resort for British tourists, partly on account of the excellent family facilities, and it is also eminently affordable, especially compared to the heftier price tags to be found in France and Switzerland. Beginners will also enjoy the uncrowded slopes, while the highly skilled will find some thrilling black runs through tree-lined country. Good restaurants and quality accommodation make this a tempting proposition for a winter break.

Livigno

Over three hours from Milan in the Italian Alps, Livigno is fairly remote and inaccessible, but for visitors willing to make the trek, the rewards are abundant. It falls in a duty-free zone, meaning that in-resort costs for food, alcohol and even gasoline are kept down nicely; excellent snow cover is assured, and a great series of terrain parks offers plenty of variety for a wide range of visitors.

Situated at 1,816 meters, the resort’s main attractions revolve around the excellent snowboarding facilities. The Mottolino park offers a superpipe, rails and enough superb snow to entice any competent boarder, while the Carosello is set up for more experienced visitors, with rails, tabletops and great trick facilities. There are two parks especially built for juniors and novice boarders, all of which feature excellent safety standards and clear guidelines.

The resort is served by around 30 lifts, and a gondola system which transports visitors effortlessly around the various parks and attractions.

Madonna di Campiglio

The Dolomites are home to a real treasure in Madonna di Campiglio; Italian chic and style meet quiet charm in one of the country’s most classic ski resorts. The resort forms part of the vast Skirama Dolomiti Adamello-Brenta region, which encompasses 297 pistes providing nearly 400 km of runs and slopes. The central resort is home to 150 km of slopes, with excellent conditions throughout the season, and easy access via dozens of smooth lifts.

In addition to the range of black, red and blue runs, there is a world class terrain park, and several areas devoted to snowboarding. The region of Passo Grosté has superb facilities including a halfpipe, while other pistes offer an array of challenges. Experienced skiers can also enjoy dozens of great off-piste runs through the forested mountain slopes.

The typically Italian village center is pedestrianized and effortlessly cool. It is popular among the local glitterati, but remains quiet and unspoiled outside of peak holiday periods. Nightclubs and chic bars abound, though there are more affordable eateries for those traveling on a tighter budget.

Passo Tonale

A training ground for Italian national teams, the high altitudes at Passo Tonale guarantee excellent snow from October to May. However, despite the impeccable championship credentials of some of the tougher runs, the biggest drawing card of this resort is its amazing facility for beginners. There are dedicated areas set aside for novices and the less experienced, who can learn to ski or board in a non-threatening, pleasant atmosphere. Several top quality ski and board schools offer instruction and come highly recommended.

Intermediates can of course use the excellent linked lift system to get to neighboring Ponte di Legno for a stiffer challenge, while those seeking après-ski adventures are also well served by atmospheric restaurants and bars which remain relatively quiet throughout the week. The resort comes alive at the weekends, with a much livelier vibe. Accommodation is of decent quality and very affordable.

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