Italy is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the planet for a reason. Many reasons. Many reasons, with which you’ll already be largely familiar. This is, after all, a cradle of contemporary civilisation, an origin point for some of our most treasured artworks, inventions, philosophies, cuisines – and, this winter, the origin point for some of your most treasured ski-holiday memories.
When people think about holidaying in Italy, the first thought is generally that of vineyards stretching over Florentine hills, or of dainty villas perched precariously in Amalfi-coastal cliffsides. But Italy holds its own in the winter too, and especially so when it comes to winter sports. Here, we’ll deep-dive on what makes Italy the best skiing destination for your next festive getaway, and some key places to explore both on and off the slopes.
Why Italy Should Be Your Next Ski Destination
There are so many places in the world to go skiing, and so many places which have an outsized reputation owing to their popularity (cough, Switzerland, cough). But those top-rated Alpine resorts are not the only fruit – and Italy has some rare delights for you to try. Indeed, Italy can offer some of the best skiing Europe has to offer.
With two mountain ranges and a smorgasbord of ski resorts spread across them, mainland Italy ski holidays can have something for everyone – whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned skier, seeking challenging slopes, or looking for picturesque villages with which to populate your Insta.
Italy’s two main mountain regions are the Alps and the Dolomites, both to the north and both in possession of excellent terrain for skiers of all levels. Between them, they offer the perfect weather conditions to create longer skiing seasons than other countries; you can typically go any time from November to April, giving you more flexibility when deciding to go on your ski holiday.
Best Ski Locations in Italy
OK, so mountains good, slopes nice, Italy great – got it. But where exactly should you go for a good ski? For starters, there’s Alpe Di Siusi in South Tyrol, which offers some peerlessly breathtaking views of the Dolomites, by virtue of being home to the largest high-altitude plateau in the Alps. For gentle slopes and stunning sights, this is the one. For something with a little more bite, you might instead consider Veneto, located in the heart of the Italian Alps and home to Olympic ski runs!
Off the Slopes: Exploring Italy
Being in Italy, it would be a shame not to explore it beyond the slopes you’ll be racing down. Apres-ski, you’ll benefit greatly from the cosiness of the Alpine and Dolomitic villages that pepper the adjoining mountain pastures. Italy is practically the home of hospitality, so you can look forward to being fed well wherever you land. For a decadent between-skiing experience, you could also seek out one of the many pamper-friendly Alpine spas!
