The best ski resorts in Italy. Italian resorts for ski lovers

Vale d'Aosta is the most beautiful place on earth, surrounded by stunning mountains and hills. The valley is located at the northwestern tip of the Iberian Peninsula and every year receives thousands of tourists who come to Vale d'Aosta individually or with the whole family. Here you can live for your own pleasure, from the windows of which you can see amazing snow-capped peaks, and go skiing along difficult routes.

The location of Vale d'Aosta is considered unique - the valley is located at the meeting point of three European countries - , and. In other words, guests of Vale d'Aosta can ski through French territory, then find themselves in neighboring Italy or Switzerland.

If desired, skiers can visit neighboring resorts - and. To do this, just sit on a modern, comfortable lift. Going to the resorts of Vale d'Aosta, a traveler will be able to see three countries at once - it's worth a lot. The valley offers many different options - each tourist can choose a vacation according to his preferences and wallet capabilities. Vale d'Aosta will satisfy the wishes of the demanding traveler, and families looking for a cheaper holiday.

The valley's resorts boast 870 kilometers of pistes, located at altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 3,600 meters. In Vale d'Aosta there are trails for beginners, professionals, snowboarders, and for real extreme sports enthusiasts. The season in the valley begins at and lasts until. At some resorts, tourists ski in the summer. The main resorts located in Vale d'Aosta these are La Thuile, Courmayeur, Cervinia, Pyla, Monte Rosa.

Resort Val di Susa

In the western part of Italy, there is another famous valley -. There are many ski resorts in this place, the main ones being Bardonecchia, Sestriete, Claviere, Souse D'Oulx, Sansicario. Thousands of tourists flock to each of the valley's resorts for a world-class vacation. The resorts of the valley are close to a large city, so getting to them is not a problem. Even the most inexperienced tourists can easily find their holiday resort.

It offers travelers over 400 kilometers of slopes, 42 rope tows and 25 chair lifts. The slopes of the resorts located in the Val di Susa valley are connected into a single network, thanks to which tourists can choose a new route every day, fully enjoying their ski holiday.

Dolomites

- a real pearl of Italy. This place is considered a national treasure of the country. The Dolomites are famous all over the world; these mountains have become the setting for many famous films. Holidays in the Dolomites are considered the standard of winter tourism, thanks to the unique trails and stunning nature. There are a huge number of resorts in the mountains, united into a single complex.

The main resorts are Arabba Marmolada, Alta Badia, Civeta, San Martino di Castorzza, Alta Pusteria, Cortina D'Ampezzo, Kronplatz, Tre Valle, Valle Isarco, Val Gardena. Not far from the Arabba-Marmolada resort is Mount Marmolada, the highest in the region. The height of this peak is 3,340 meters above sea level. The Arabba-Marmolada resort is chosen by professionals and lovers of steep descents.

For amateur skiers, the resorts of the Dolomites have created many simple trails and slopes. The total length of the ski slopes is 1,200 kilometers. The slopes are served by 450 lifts of various types. All resorts in the Dolomites are connected into a single network and have a common ski pass. After skiing and enjoying the mountain air, tourists can head to a Michelin-starred restaurant or spa. However, many skiers, tired of physical activity, prefer to light a fire in the fireplace and pour a cup of hot chocolate to fully enjoy the minutes of real alpine relaxation.

27,230 views

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 their relatively low prices that are significantly lower than those established in other European countries. Forget about Eastern Europe and even Andorra: for a small amount of money spent on a trip 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 ski area that 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.

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Passo del Tonale for beginners

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 has 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 nightlife lovers: 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 does it have some of the steepest descents in all of the Dolomites, but it also offers 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 and on one of the mountains, as well as 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. Before noon, you wouldn't see a soul on the slopes in this area. 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. However, the long journey to Livigno is well worth it due to the well-equipped pistes, low prices and safe snow conditions.
The village is located 10 kilometers from a mountain road that 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 many 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%.

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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, which you need to keep in mind if you are considering an active winter holiday in the mountains.

List of the best ski resorts in Italy

  1. 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 town became a famous winter resort about 160 years ago, when it was made a popular starting point for 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 be a 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 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 is recommended for visiting in the summer for those who love trekking or just relaxing in the mountains. Selva di Val Gardena lies 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 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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 highest 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)

A legendary Italian resort that 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.

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 is TermeMerano, a huge thermal complex with radon springs. The walls of the complex are made entirely of glass, which allows you to admire the panorama of the Alps. It offers 25 swimming pools, a fitness center, a huge complex of 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 is a 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 is a modern center for 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.



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