This Is Italy
Winter sports in Italy still lose out to more popular ski areas in Austria, Switzerland and France. But why actually?
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Why don't we go to Italy?
A frequently heard objection for Italy as a winter sport is the distance. For Belgians, Italy is a little closer and among them it is a more popular winter sports destination. And although Italy is of course further than Switzerland or Austria, the ski resorts in the Alps and the Dolomites are in many cases just as far away as the French ski resorts (although of course you can fly too!). But yes, on the way to Italy you pass all those other beautiful ski areas…
Why should we go to Italy for winter sports? 6 very good reasons can be found below.
1. Because it's Italy!
You should consider Italy as a winter sports destination because of the beautiful views, the perfect slopes for beginners and experts and the delicious food. But not least because of the extra Italian flair. Even in ski areas such as South Tyrol you will find a different atmosphere. Call it la dolce vita in the snow with a cliché.
2. The most beautiful ski areas
If you want to go skiing in Italy, you have a large choice of ski areas with beautiful mountain landscapes in the background. The most famous is the Val Gardena in the Dolomites. From here you can ski the Sella Ronda, one of the most beautiful ski tours in the Alps. Also special is the snow-sure Livigno and ski areas such as Breuil-Cervinia, Arabba-Marmolada, Via Lattea and Monte Rosa. In Veneto you will find the exclusive ski resort of Cortina d'Ampezzo. You can also visit Alleghe or Rocca Pietore.
The closest for Dutch and Belgians is the Aosta Valley. About 900 kilometers from the Dutch border you will find some beautiful ski areas at the foot of Mont Blanc. Chic Courmayeur is one of the most famous spots in the Valle d'Aosta. Here you will find real jet-setters, but there is still a relaxed atmosphere.
On the website of the ANWB there is an overview of: all ski resorts in Italy.
3. Perfect slopes
The Italians are good at preparing perfect slopes. If the weather is not good, snow machines are used to produce artificial snow. Even if there has been too little snow, the ski resorts in Italy are in great shape.
4. No mass tourism
Long lines at the ski lift are virtually unknown in Italy. That's another reason to descend a little further south. Enjoy the Italian atmosphere and you will meet far fewer compatriots here.
5. Culinary enjoyment
Another reason, and certainly not the least important. You will find excellent cuisine in and around the slopes. It goes way beyond schnitzels and Radler. The delicious Italian food is a reason in itself to go on winter sports to Italy. And don't forget the coffee!
6. More sun than anywhere else!
On the other side of the Alps you have more hours of sunshine than in France, Switzerland or Austria. This makes that extensive lunch on the mountain a lot more pleasant!
Tips for a successful winter sports holiday
What should you keep in mind when going on a winter sports holiday in Italy? First of all, it is good to give your car a winter check. Are the fluids at the right level? Are the brakes OK? Are there winter tires on the rims? Please note that in some areas you will need winter tires or snow chains during the winter season (15 November to 15 April).
In addition to snow chains, you must also carry a warning triangle and reflective vests for all passengers in Italy.
Insurance
It is also recommended to take out travel insurance with winter sports cover. With your regular Dutch health insurance you are also insured in Italy, but only for the costs of the treatment in the Netherlands. And as you know, the costs abroad can be considerable (if, for example, a plaster flight or a helicopter is involved). Travel insurance can also be useful if you want to insure loss, damage and/or theft of your ski equipment.
car vignette
Are you driving via Switzerland or Austria? Then of course you need a vignette for the highway in those countries. For Switzerland you have to buy an annual vignette, for Austria you can sometimes suffice with 1 or 2 ten-day vignettes. In Italy itself you pay the toll through the toll booths on the highway. It is useful to have a credit card to hand for this. Then you avoid the long lines for cash payment.
Photos: Pixabay/Pexels
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