Anne deVries
The first snowflakes have already fallen in Italy. Time to book a great winter sport in Italy! To help you, we've listed five great destinations for you. For bumbling beginners, experienced off-piste heroes and everything in between!
1. Skiing from October to June in Passo Tonale
World famous because it is possible to ski in both winter and summer: Passo Tonale. The mountain pass is located at an altitude of 1.880 meters, and is located on the border of the Italian regions Lombardy en Trentino-South Tyrol. You are guaranteed a good layer of snow from the end of October to mid-June. You can thank the impressive Presena Glacier on your knees for this.
The resort is primarily aimed at young families and beginners, who can attend two ski and snowboard schools: Tonale Presena and Ponte Tonale. But there is also plenty to do for the advanced. These daredevils can head for the more challenging Ponte di Legno and Temù, two spots accessible from Passo Tonala by ski lift.
And also non-skiers who (forced) go on winter sports are considered. The brand new ski lift takes you to Passo Presena, where you can dream away at an altitude of three thousand meters with the most beautiful panoramic view of the Italian Alps.
During your stay, make sure that you eat out at least once at Hotel La Mirandola. This unique site is located high above the resort and dates back to the 12e century. Be careful not to drink too many wines: the hotel can only be reached in the evening by snowmobile.
Good to know: Passo Tonale is the first to open the ski season every year.
View the top accommodations in the Passo Tonale . area now.
2. Be seen in Cortina d'Ampezzo
One of the fanciest destinations on the list: the historic mountain town of Cortina d'Ampezzo. The place in the Dolomites is surrounded by magnificent sandstone cathedrals. The old center is characterized by green and white bell towers and rows of imposing mansions.
The area has been occupied for several centuries. The last invaders were the Austrians and Americans in 1945. Nevertheless, stubborn Cortina has managed to maintain its independence and wealth. So don't be surprised if you come across hordes of wealthy Italians who stroll around the expensive center and the curling and polo matches.
But in Cortina d'Ampezzo it's about more than being seen: there are no less than 115 kilometers of slopes. For advanced winter sports enthusiasts, there are a number of challenging black runs and off-piste routes available. During your holiday, don't miss a visit to the Sella Ronda circuit. The free bus will take you to Passo Falzarego and the ski lift to the top of Lagazuoi. From here you slide down the Hidden Valley towards Armentarola.
You will sleep in the four-star Ancora hotel, where you will dream away with the traditional wooden balconies and fresco painting. You are in the middle of the pedestrian zone, where you are surrounded by cozy bars, cafes, restaurants, antique shops and boutiques. They don't know the word bored here!
View the top accommodations in Cortina d'Ampezzo . now.
3. Off-piste in Alagna Valsesia
Alagna Valsesia is a picturesque village filled with stone churches and historic wooden farm houses. The pearl is located in the gigantic Monterosa ski area and is adored by powder lovers. Alagna is therefore not a destination for beginners or aprèski enthusiasts. The lights go out right after dinner so you can get as much sleep as possible.
Alagna itself has fifteen kilometers of slopes and is a real off-piste paradise. Looking for more diversity? No problem. If you have a Monterosa ski lift pass, you can enjoy the 200 kilometers of snow tracks that can be found in the area. From beginners to pros, the Monterosa area is for everyone.
You sleep in the farm house Zimmer Casa Prati. A more original place than this residence is hard to find. Located above the ski lift, the bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms with traditional wooden and stone features.
View the top accommodations in Alagna Valsesia.
4. Red runs in Alta Badia
The family-friendly winter sports destination of the list: Alta Badia. A big advantage of this Italian ski area is the connection with surrounding ski spots, so you don't slide down the same slope twice. Think, for example, of the villages of Corvara, San Cassuano and Colfosco: all three authentic must-sees.
Alta Badia is best suited for intermediate skiers and snowboarders. Fly off the well-maintained red runs and enjoy a hot meal every now and then in one of the unique mountain restaurants. Make sure to experience at least one sunset on the slopes. During this most beautiful moment of the day, the sky changes to a breathtaking pink hue. Be careful: concentrating on the slopes is suddenly not so easy anymore!
There are plenty of beautiful hotels in Alta Badia. Hotel La Plaza, La Perla and Posta Zirm all feature soothing spas. Not luxurious enough for you? Then book a room in the five-star Rosa Alpina hotel. This hotel features a Michelin star restaurant St. Hubertus, which has not one but two stars to its name.
Check out the top accommodations in Corvara, Alta Badia.
5. Family fun in Champoluc
One of the most underrated spots for winter sports in Italy is the Monterosa ski area: the charming village of Champoluc. This Italian destination is not overrun with tourists and there is a relaxed, informal atmosphere. The area alone is worth a visit! Also not unimportant: there are 132 kilometers of slopes on which you can enjoy yourself.
From Champoluc you take the gondola to Crest, where the best beginner slopes can be found. Do your children still need lessons? Then book an instructor at Ski2 or Scuola Sci Champoluc. At the latter company you can also hire a babysitter or nanny for your children, so that you and your partner can relax together in peace.
You will stay in the four-star hotel Relais des Glaciers. The hotel has a lovely spa, outdoor hot tub and is just a seven-minute walk from the gondola. Handy: the hotel provides a special 'early children's dinner', so that you and your partner can enjoy a romantic dinner.
View the top accommodations in Champoluc . now.
Winter sports in Italy: are you going too?
Which winter sport are you looking forward to? Have you been to another Italian dream winter sports holiday that also belongs in this list?
If you already want to enjoy the anticipation of your winter sports holiday in Italy, then you can already look for good and affordable accommodation at one of these beautiful winter sports resorts.
Let us know where you go on winter sports in Italy by leaving a comment below this article. Or gouge everyone's eyes out and send a homemade photo card from your winter sports address in Italy!
Source: telegraph.co.uk/travel, Italy winter sports photo: Pexels
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