The Italians deliver their winter ski holidays in the only way they know how - a laid-back experience which is informal and fun. With Italian ski holidays, you'll find serious skiing matched perfectly with fabulous dining and a welcoming attitude normally reserved for life-long friends.
Italian ski resorts especially the accommodation choices, benefit from prices that are considerably lower than other alpine destinations. This coupled with their relaxed atmosphere, fantastic food and wine makes it easy to see why people return year after year. Their friendly approach is especially extended to children which together with the pricing, make these resorts ideal for families.
The slopes tend to big quieter than Italy's European noisy neighbours in France or Austria. And with world-class snowmaking facilities, Even during the driest of winters, the piste conditions have still been amazing. It may not be the adrenalin junkies ski country of choice but with fun and relaxation trumping so-steep-you-can't-actually-enjoy-them-slopes and the added bonus of in resort costs being considerably cheaper than France, Austria or Switzerland you really can find a higher enjoyment factor with a trip to Italy.
Often considered the sunny side of the Alps Italy offers some spectacular scenery, spectacular food and spectacular ambience - what's not to love there?
The flexibility of the hotels and short transfer time make resorts such as Courmayeur perfect for weekend and short ski trips.
Why we love skiing in Italy
- Mouthwatering food both on and off the mountains
- In Italian resorts, prices are much lower than you might expect - especially the local wines
- The slopes are quieter than other European destinations
- Fantastic snowmaking equipment keeps the slopes fresh even in the worst conditions
- Short transfer times make our Italian resorts perfect for a short break
Worth knowing
- Pistes are generally more mellow than the European big hitters, this just means they're perfect for cruising around
- Often considered the sunny side of the Alps; you may not be knee deep in powder every day but you will get the best out of the sun terraces
- Weekends draw crowds from local towns so the resorts can get busy
Our favourite Italian ski resorts
Best for lively après - Sauze d'Oulx has a long-standing party reputation
Best for short transfers - Sauze d'Oulx is only 1 hour away from Turin airport
Best for beginners - Cortina is full of confidence building progression terrain
Best for intermediates - Selva Val Gardena has enough cruising terrain to last you a lifetime
Best for the adventurous - Courmayeur has tonnes of easy access off-piste to explore with a guide