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Italy

Peak perfect: the 5 best ski resorts in Italy

Discover the charm of Italy’s top ski destinations

Italy’s ski scene offers a distinctive blend of extensive terrain, regional charm and culinary excellence, setting it apart from other European destinations. The Dolomiti Superski area in Trentino-Alto Adige, one of the world’s largest interconnected ski regions provides diverse options. Veneto stands out for its slopes and cultural heritage, hosting international ski events. A unique feature of Italian ski resorts is the emphasis on gastronomy. On-mountain dining often includes gourmet experiences, with many huts serving regional specialties from Piemonte or Valle d’Aosta. Italy’s ski resorts are known for their affordability compared to other Alpine countries.
Cortina d'Ampezzo Veneto Italy travel guide

01

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d’Ampezzo is located in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Dolomites and offers a ski experience steeped in both natural beauty and history. Often referred to as the ‘Queen of the Dolomites,’ Cortina is renowned for its beauty and cultural heritage. Part of the Dolomiti Superski area, it provides access to 120 kilometres of slopes suited to all skill levels, from gentle beginner runs to more technical descents like the famous Forcella Rossa. What sets Cortina apart is its cultural richness. The 80 kilometre Great War Ski Tour that weaves through historic sites from World War I, offering skiers a chance to explore preserved trenches and fortifications along their journey. The town itself exudes understated elegance, with cobbled streets lined by chic boutiques and traditional trattorias. Non-skiers can visit the Mario Rimoldi Modern Art Museum or relax in luxury spas with Dolomite views. Hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics and set to co-host again in 2026, Cortina combines top-tier facilities with a timeless alpine atmosphere.
Val Gardena Trentino Alto Adige Italy travel guide

02

Val Gardena

Val Gardena, set in the Dolomites, is a paradise for skiers and culture enthusiasts alike. Its 175 kilometres of ski slopes connect seamlessly to the 500 kilometres of the Sella Ronda circuit, making it ideal for long, uninterrupted days on the pistes. The terrain ranges from gentle slopes perfect for families in Ortisei to the adrenaline-pumping Saslong World Cup downhill course which is a favourite among experts. Regardless of your skill level you are treated to stunning backdrops of jagged peaks and wide valleys. Off the slopes, Val Gardena offers a cultural blend, rooted in its Ladin heritage. Villages like Ortisei and Selva retain their Alpine charm, with cobbled streets, wooden chalets and artisanal shops specialising in intricate wood carvings. Après-ski here is understated yet inviting – think cosy mountain huts serving hearty meals and mulled wine under the stars. So if a slower pace sounds appealing and if the possibility to enjoy world-class skiing excites, Val Gardena might be the right choice.
Breiul Cervinia Valle d'Aosta Italy travel guide

03

Breuil-Cervinia

Just below the mighty Matterhorn, Cervinia-Breuil is a haven for high-altitude skiing, boasting pistes that reach 3,480 metres at the Plateau Rosa Glacier. With over 150 kilometres of interconnected slopes on the Italian side and access to an additional 200 kilometres in neigbouring Zermatt, it’s a paradise for intermediate skiers, thanks to its abundance of long, wide blue and red runs. The Ventina piste is a standout – a 12 kilometre descent offering stunning views as it winds from the glacier to the village below. For more adventures, there’s heli-skiing and plenty of off-piste opportunities. Cervinia also delivers on a vibrant après-ski scene with a buzzing atmosphere and lively DJ events. Beyond the slopes and nightlife, Cervinia’s cross-border skiing to Zermatt offers a memorable way to experience the Matterhorn from two nations.

Madonna di Campiglio Trentino Alto Adige Italy travel guide

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Madonna di Campiglio

In the heart of the Brenta Dolomites lies Madonna di Campiglio. The resort boasts 60 kilometres of interconnected slopes, seamlessly linking to the broader Skirama Dolomiti area which provides a diverse range of runs. A standout feature is the Canalone Miramonti which is the renowned World Cup slalom piste that is challenging even to the most seasoned skiers, and something to brag about having mastered, at the après-ski. Beyond the slopes, the town’s history is intertwined with European aristocracy, notably hosting Princess Sissi and Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria in the late 19th century. This regal connection is celebrated annually during the Habsburg Carnival. If such stuff is not to your liking, the Ursus Snowpark on the Grostè plateau offers one of Europe’s premier snowboarding experiences, featuring a variety of jumps and rails. Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate the mountain huts serving Trentino specialities, such as polenta and local cheeses, providing a taste of regional cuisine amidst panoramic alpine views.

Sestriere Piemonte Italy travel guide
Sestriere Piemonte Italy travel guide

05

Sestriere

Sestriere, Italy’s highest town at 2,035 metres, stands out for its rich Olympic heritage and extensive skiing terrain. As a central hub of the Via Lattea (Milky Way) ski area, it offers access to over 400 kilometres of interconnected slopes, catering to all skill levels. Notably, Sestriere hosted the men’s alpine skiing events during the 2006 Winter Olympics, a legacy that continues to attract international competitions. The resort was built in the 1930’s by founder of FIAT, Giovanni Agnelli, giving it a bit of a utilitarian atmosphere. Make no mistake though; there are plenty of bars and restaurants for all budgets and the aprés-ski does not disappoint. Beyond skiing, visitors can explore the nearby Val Chisone, known for its historical significance and natural beauty with great opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. While not the quintessential alpine village, Sestriere’s blend of high-altitude skiing, historical landmarks and diverse winter activities makes it a compelling destination with its relatively reliable snow.

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