Best ski resorts in Italy 2019
Skiing in Italy – here’s what you need to know about the best skiing and ski resorts in Italy
Italy is a great place to ski. Aside from the idyllic hills, sunny grape farms, and sophisticated delicacies it offers, Italy has one of the most scenic snowfields where avid skiers go during winter.
There are very few people who immediately associate Italy with snow, let alone as a place that offers perfect skiing grounds. Yet Italy is blessed with 5, 823 kilometres of slopes and 1, 765 lifts that will take you to your favorite ski spot.
However, before you steal your way to the lift, we highly suggest that you make a lunch reservation at Rifugio. This is where you can truly enjoy a picturesque view of the beautiful mountains in Italy.
Italy tends to be cheaper than its main rivals like Europe and France. In fact, most resorts here are family-oriented. To have the best skiing in Italy you can read through this article and learn about the places you shouldn’t miss when visiting Italy.
We have listed the top skiing resorts according to their night life, accommodation, ease of access, and quality of experience. We’ve also evaluated the resorts based on their terrain, difficulty, vertical drop, and accessibility.
Best skiing in Italy….
The best skiing in Italy happens on the Alps. Speaking of terrains, Italy will give you the most picturesque and scenic ski resorts with the highest mountains scattered around its borders.
The Dolomites for example is just one of the awe-inspiring mountains in Italy. Dolomite alone exceeds 3,000 metres during winter. This means that snow is almost certain from November through April.
It features the best terrains with 1, 200 kilometres of ski trails, which are further divided into 12 major ski areas. Val d’Aosta is the highest among all skiing spots with 3,899 metres elevation during winter.
Savoy Alps is another skiing spot in Italy that features 1,881 kilometres of slopes. There are 669 ski lifts in the area which can take you to your favorite ski spots.
The ski resorts in Italy are quite impressive. Whichever resort you choose you can expect spectacular sceneries to meet just as how you see them on the postcards.
Livingo offers some of the best skiing in Italy
Locally known as Piccolo Tibet, Livigno is one of the best ski resorts in Italy that peacefully rests between two mountain ranges. It is 12 kilometres across Valtellina alpine valley and definitely a must-go for families.
The best time to visit Livigno is between November and May when the snow season is at its finest. There is a total of 115 kilometres of skifield in Livigno with modern ski lifts and 30 kilometres cross-country ski trails.
Livigno is cheaper than other resorts, which is why a lot of families go here. There are duty-free shops just around the corner where you can purchase tax-free goodies. The après-ski is excellent and the winter season is totally sports-packed in Livigno. When you go here, it is important that you prepare yourself physically for the best skiing in Italy experience.
Skiing area
Livigno is further divided into three ski resorts. Carosello is the biggest ski area amongst all with various ski runs, 4 restaurants, and a snowpark.
Costaccia is another ski resort east of Livigno while Mottolino is down the west. When combined, they have a total of 115 kilometres of slopes and 1, 700 to 2, 900 metres elevation during winter.
Both ski resorts offer various terrains for skiers of all levels. Whether you have trained or not, you have a place here. Overall, there are 78 pistes with 12 black runs, 37 red runs, and 29 blue runs.
The lift system in Livigno is quite modern with 6 cableways and 14 charlifts. There are also 12 ski lifts. If you want a free bus ride, you will need to secure a pass which is valid for the entire duration of your stay. Getting a pass will truly help you save financially.
If you’re a winter sports enthusiasts, you will absolutely love Livigno. It offers more than just ordinary skiing experience. In fact, it is a perfect place for telemark skiing. Approximately 30 kilometres of the resort is also reserved for cross-country skiers.
Hardcore and thrill-seekers will enjoy its extensive snow cannon grid which is regularly updated with the right amount of snow every ski season.
Other attractions
There are many attractions in Italy which you can enjoy on winter such us snowboarding.
Mottolino Snowpark is the biggest fun park in Europe where snowboarders and freestylers entertain themselves. Advanced skiers can also enjoy heli-skiing where you’ll be taken by a helicopter to the unexplored summits of the resorts.
Before you jive into this activity, make sure you have enough training. The terrains on the mountains can be really steep and dangerous. You will need to be very cautious.
Nevertheless, there are more than 200 ski experts in the resorts with training at the Italian Ski School. Other schools in the resort offer training for beginners, including children who are suffering from disabilities.
Accessibility and accommodation
Going to Livigno is quite challenging. The fastest route is via Innsbruck, which is at least 3 hours. Other routes from the airport appallingly take longer.
If you want to enjoy scenic views and take videos or photos as you ride, you can take the longer route. Though it is time-consuming, you will be entertained by the views of snow parks. The cheap fares and affordable prices in Livigno is one of your greatest rewards when you reach the area.
Livigno also offers fun activities at night. In fact it is a haven of après ski with more than 150 drinking lounge located along the main valley road. That means you don’t have to take long walks.
Expect the nightlife to be loud and riotous during peak season. If you want a calmer place, you can check out Kosmo, Club Bivio, and Stalet.
Cortina d’Ampezzo – where one of the best skiing in Italy happens
Cortina D’Ampezzo is popularly known for its Dolomite ski resorts. In this town, you’ll get to see five peaks, including Cinque Torr. Cortina d’Ampezzo is never short of great snow landscape that remains alluring no matter how many times you visit the area.
There are day-long runs nearby and more than 30 lifts that carry skiers to the snow fields. Cortina d’Ampezzo a mix of experience for beginners and well-trained skiers. There are less challenging slopes for beginners and about half of the terrains are best for intermediate skiers.
When you get the Dolomiti Superski pass, you can have full use of the lifts and trails of the 11 other resorts in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Cortina d’Ampezzo is also home to various downhill ski facilities and world-renowned Olympic rink as well as the Stadio del Ghiaccio, for ice skaters.
You’ll never go wrong with Cortina d’Ampezzo with dozens of hotels, restaurants, and cafes in the area. Note that almost all restaurants are just walking distance so you’ll never go hungry for the day.
There mid-range lodging in Cortina if you want to save such as the chalet-style Hotel Natale. It is a little rustic but will definitely give you the real vintage Italian vibe while looking through the magnificent view of the town from its carved wooden balconies.
Skiing in Cervinia
Cervinia creates consistent snowfall, making the entire field extremely amazing. When winter comes this area becomes a winter wonderland – absolutely a perfect playground for skiers of all level.
Cervinia has the highest pisted ski area in Europe. When you ski here, you will also see the Matterhorn Massif and Swiss neighborhood delighting you with surreal views of the snowcapped mountains like no other place has. Since Cervinia is close to Zermatt, skiers can access both resorts with 251 kilometres of prime skiing ground using an international pass.
Cervinia isn’t as scenic as other resorts. However, it has the most unbeatable snow even when other areas have already run dry. Of course, don’t forget to come by Indian Park which is actually considered among the best in Italy.
Skiing area
Cervinia is undeniably a high-altitude location but tourists come here for the mid-range runs built specially for intermediate skiers. They enjoy high slopes that rise above the tree lines and glaciers in Italy.
The ski area in Cervinia is further divided into two. The first one extends to the Theodulpass ridge Italian-Swiss border. The second one is narrower but it extends to the glacial Plateau Rosa, also known as the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. This is the highest ski slope of the Italian Alps.
Accessibility and accommodation
Cervinia is accessible via bus, taxi, or private car from Turin, which is the nearest airport. Expect the ride for 2 hours. You can also go by train from Chatillon, which is the closet train station with coach transfer to the resort.
When you reach the resort, there is a plethora of cosy hotels and cafés to choose from. You can enjoy the happy hour after the lifts close. If you want something stylish and unique, you check out Hotel Principe delle Nevi. Better yet catch some free tapas-style snacks at some snack bars.
Alagna also offers some of the best skiing in Italy
Alagna is a little village that is rich in Italian culture and history. Come by Alagna to see stone church and attractive wooden farmhouse.
Although small, Alagna is popular known as a great rival of Chamonix in France because of its well-groomed and expansive terrains. Take note though that the terrains in Alagna are quite challenging, which is why it is most suitable for expert skiers.
The Monterosa ski area is a giant ski spot in Alagna which is known for some cults following among powderhounds.
Skiing area
Alagna is definitely not for the faint hearted or for beginners. Even expert skiers need a lot of sleep before going to the difficult terrains, which are mostly off piste.
There are only 15 kilometres of pistes in Alagna, which are close to more intermediate-minded resorts of of Gressoney and Champoluc. When snow falls, the village can rise as high as 1, 212 metres from where lifts make a steep ascend by 3,275 metres. By far, this is the most wicked ski experience you’ll ever have but if you want something more evil, you will love the long black run back down the resort from Passo Salati with 2, 971 metres elevation.
You’ll need a mountain guide to traverse the area but rest assured, this is the best skiing in Italy you’ll ever have.
Accessibility and accommodation
Alagna is home to a variety of hotels. Whether you’re looking for a three-room apartment or luxury hotel, Alagna has got you covered.
When the lights close, that is when you can truly enjoy the nightlife in Alagna. Enjoy some cold beer in popular bars. The spa with indoor heater pool is definitely a must-try. After a daylong ski run, you can soak in the warm waters to relax your muscles.
Cervinia is popularly known for its consistent snowfall, which makes the entire field extremely amazing. When winter comes this area becomes a winter wonderland – absolutely a perfect playground for skiers of all level.
Cervinia has the highest pisted ski area in Europe. When you ski here, you will also see the Matterhorn Massif and Swiss neighborhood delighting you with surreal views of the snowcapped mountains like no other place has. Since Cervinia is close to Zermatt, skiers can access both resorts with 251 kilometres of prime skiing ground using an international pass.
Cervinia isn’t as scenic as other resorts. However, it has the most unbeatable snow even when other areas have already run dry. Of course, don’t forget to come by Indian Park which is actually considered among the best in Italy.
Skiing area
Cervinia is undeniably a high-altitude location but tourists come here for the mid-range runs built specially for intermediate skiers. They enjoy high slopes that rise above the tree lines and glaciers in Italy.
The ski area in Cervinia is further divided into two. The first one extends to the Theodulpass ridge Italian-Swiss border. The second one is narrower but it extends to the glacial Plateau Rosa, also known as the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. This is the highest ski slope of the Italian Alps.
Accessibility and accommodation
Cervinia is accessible via bus, taxi, or private car from Turin, which is the nearest airport. Expect the ride for 2 hours. You can also go by train from Chatillon, which is the closet train station with coach transfer to the resort.
When you reach the resort, there is a plethora of cosy hotels and cafés to choose from. You can enjoy the happy hour after the lifts close. If you want something stylish and unique, you check out Hotel Principe delle Nevi. Better yet catch some free tapas-style snacks at some snack bars.
Alagna also offers some of the best skiing in Italy
Alagna is a little village that is rich in Italian culture and history. Come by Alagna to see stone church and attractive wooden farmhouse.
Although small, Alagna is popularly known as a great rival of Chamonix in France because of its well-groomed and expansive terrains. Take note though that the terrains in Alagna are quite challenging, which is why it is most suitable for expert skiers.
The Monterosa ski area is a giant ski spot in Alagna which is known for some cults following among powderhounds.
Skiing area
Alagna is definitely not for the faint hearted or for beginners. Even expert skiers need a lot of sleep before going to the difficult terrains, which are mostly off piste.
There are only 15 kilometres of pistes in Alagna, which are very close to more intermediate-minded resorts of of Gressoney and Champoluc. When snow falls, the village can rise as high as 1, 212 metres from where lifts make a steep ascend by 3,275 metres. By far, this is the most wicked ski experience you’ll ever have but if you want something more evil, you will love the long black run back down the resort from Passo Salati with 2, 971 metres elevation.
You’ll need a mountain guide to traverse the area. However, this is the best skiing in Italy you’ll ever have.
Accessibility and accommodation
Alagna is home to a variety of hotels. Whether you’re looking for a three-room apartment or luxury hotel, Alagna has got you covered.
When the lights close, that is when you can truly enjoy the nightlife in Alagna. Enjoy some cold beer in popular bars. The spa with indoor heater pool is definitely a must-try. After a daylong ski run, you can soak in the warm waters to relax your muscles.
Some other resorts to consider for some of the best skiing in Italy:
Passo Tonale
Passo Tonale is another ski destination across the Rhaetian Alps with 1, 880 metres elevation. It is cheaper than other ski spots with lifts going up to 3, 088 metres.
Since it is closer to the snowfall Presena glacier, the snowfall in Passo Tonale is very consistent between October and June and can reach up to 3,000 metres.
With marked runs, Passo Tonale is actually perfect for beginners and intermediates. Approximately 100 kilometres of the area is suitable for experts. There is only one lift in the area that carries passengers to their desired destination.
The hotels here are so close by making it very convenient. Hotel La Mirandola is probably the oldest hotel dating back to the 12th century but definitely one of the most sought-after hotels. Make sure to book in advance to secure your spot.
Sauze d’Oulx
What used to be a big party town in the 1980s is now calmer and more relaxed place. Sauze d’Oulx built still have pub crawls and lively bars but not as loud as before.
Featuring great terrains, Sauze d’Oulx is definitely a great place for skiers of all levels. It has 400 kilometres of pristine ski runs with 66 lifts to carry hundreds of tourists every year.
Since it is the nearest ski resort from Turin Airport, a lot of people eventually make it their first choice upon coming to Italy. If you want undulating, snow-covered runs Sauze d’Oulx makes a perfect getaway.
The best thing about this place is that it is very cost effective. It is also close to other resorts like Sestire and Sansicaro. So if you want to jump into other resorts you can choose this place.
Corvara
Located near the craggy Dolomites range, Corvora is nevertheless a family friendly ski resort. It offers gentler, less challenging ski runs.
From Corvara, you can access other resorts like Alta Badia and Sella Ronda. Skiing in Corvara will also let you enjoy a scenic view of the Italian Alps. Luxury and budget-friendly accommodations are also available in the area.
To conclude…
The best skiing in Italy is possible with great friends and family. While many people come here for sports, there are individuals who treat skiing as a new way to bond with loved ones.
Admittedly, skiing in Italy is a unique way to spend the winter holiday. A weeklong stay in the Alps is not even enough to savor the true beauty it offers. Moreover, the ski resorts in Italy are much more laid back and affordable than its rivals. Italy is definitely ideal for families looking for budget-friendly adventure.
