WHERE TO SKI THIS WINTER: 5 DESTINATIONS NOT TO BE MISSED
The countdown has officially begun and in a few days it will again be time to get out your boots, gloves, helmets, skis and boards. Skiing is one of the most popular winter activities and, every year, throngs of skiers take the ski lifts by storm. Our beautiful Italy truly has some incredible destinations and trails offering unique experiences and landscapes.
For anyone seeking some not-to-be- missed destinations this season here are 5 to explore, from the north to the south of Italy and a dive into France as well!
- Piedmont – Vialattea
The Vialattea, the largest ski area in northwestern Italy, is one of Italy’s most iconic alpine skiing destinations. It links up locations such as Sestriere, Sauze d ‘Oulx, Sansicario, Claviere, Cesana and Montgenèvre in France, and is one of the largest ski areas in the entire Alpine region. With 400 km of slopes, it has pistes to suit all abilities. The ski lifts ascend to altitudes of 1350 m at Cesana and 2800 m on Monte Motta, guaranteeing excellent skiing and several ski pass options that will enable you to explore the entire area, including into France.
- Trentino-Alto Adige – Val di Fiemme and Madonna di Campiglio
Trentino-Alto Adige offers two unmissable destinations for ski lovers: Val di Fiemme and Madonna di Campiglio. Val di Fiemme boasts 150 km of slopes spread over 5 areas, including the Alpe Cermis and the Latemar Ski Center, equipped with modern and fast ski lifts. The area is also famous for its cross-country ski trails and the Marcialonga. Madonna di Campiglio, on the other hand, links up with Pinzolo, Folgarida and Marilleva, with 150 km of slopes suitable for all abilities, including the famous 3-Tre piste and the iconic Canalone Miramonti. Both locations combine sports, nature and a wide range of options to relax and have fun.
- Tuscany – Abetone
Abetone, in the province of Pistoia, is one of the most famous ski areas in the Apennines, with 50 km of slopes and 17 ski lifts. The area covers 4 linked valleys: Val di Luce, Valle dello Scoltenna, Valle del Sestaione and Val di Lima. The heart of the skiing area is a cable car that connects the village to Monte Gomito, the starting point for three difficult pistes dedicated to the historic champion Zeno Colò. Abetone is also an ideal destination for off-piste enthusiasts who can test their skills on undisturbed descents and trails.
- Calabria – Sila National Park
Calabria is a surprising winter sports option: skiiing in the enchanted landscapes of the Sila National Park. The Lorica skiing area, on the shores of Lake Arvo, offers 20 km of alpine slopes and 40 km of cross-country skiing, served by a modern cable car. Camigliatello Silano and Villaggio Palumbo, next to Lake Cecita and on the Sila Plateau, also offer slopes for all abilities, snow parks and night-time illumination. A paradise for skiers and families, surrounded by mountains and crystal clear lakes.
- France – Serre Chevalier
Situated at the gateway to the Écrins National Park, this is the largest ski resort in the Southern Alps. It extends from Briançon to the Lautaret pass, with 250 km of slopes and an incredible variety of ski lifts. Covering several resorts including Briançon, Chantemerle, Monêtier-les-Bains and Villeneuve, in wintertime it’s ideal for downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. And as an additional way to relax after skiing, the thermal baths at Monetier-les-Bains are the perfect place to regenerate.
Sources:
https://www.dovesciare.it
https://calabriastraordinaria.it/news/sciare-in-sila-e-praticare-altri-sport-invernali
https://www.skiinfo.it/news/top-stazioni-sciistiche-della-toscana/
https://www.france-voyage.com/francia-guida-turismo/serre-chevalier-1327.htm