Did someone say, “après-ski?”
By train, bus and car, these Alpine ski towns are located within just a few hours of Milan.
Courmayeur
Courmayeur is a picturesque ski resort (best known for its frequent VIP sightings) nestled at the foot of the majestic Mont Blanc, offering an enchanting skiing experience for all levels. With a network of over 100 kilometers of slopes, Courmayeur caters to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, from tranquil green runs (ideal for beginners) to thrilling black runs that challenge experienced skiers.
The resort's high altitude ensures consistently good snow conditions, while the breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding alpine peaks make every descent a breathtaking spectacle. Beyond the slopes, Courmayeur offers a a quaint village atmosphere with cozy cafes, traditional restaurants, and après-ski activities to complete the unforgettable skiing experience. Whether you vibe best on serene beginner runs, prefer exhilarating off-piste adventures, or love to simply take in the amazing views amidst stunning natural beauty, Courmayeur promises an unforgettable alpine skiing adventure.
Bardonecchia
Bardonecchia is a vibrant ski resort nestled in the Susa Valley of the Italian Alps, offering a diverse and exhilarating skiing experience for all levels. With over 100 kilometers of slopes, Bardonecchia caters to skiers and snowboarders from beginners to experts, providing a variety of terrain to suit your skills and preferences.
Beginners can enjoy the gentle slopes of the Colomion-Les Arnauds and Melezet areas, winding through picturesque forests and offering a relaxing introduction to the sport. Intermediate skiers and snowboarders can explore the extensive network of blue and red runs, while experienced skiers can test their limits on the challenging black runs that ascend to the highest point of 2,800 meters.
Bardonecchia's location in the southern Alps ensures consistently good snow conditions throughout the season, while the surrounding alpine peaks provide stunning backdrops for your skiing adventures. Off-piste enthusiasts can venture beyond the marked trails, exploring the vast expanse of untamed snowfields for an adrenaline-pumping challenge.
After a day on the slopes, Bardonecchia offers a lively après-ski scene, with cozy bars, traditional restaurants, and lively après-ski venues to unwind and soak up the resort's charming atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll through charming villages, exhilarating off-piste adventures, or simply breathtaking views amidst stunning natural beauty, Bardonecchia promises an unforgettable alpine skiing escape.
Breuil-Cervinia
Skiing at Breuil-Cervinia is an unforgettable experience for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The resort offers a vast network of slopes, ranging from green runs to challenging black runs. The snow conditions are consistently excellent, thanks to the high altitude and northerly aspect of the slopes. And the views of the Matterhorn just over the border in Zermatt, Switzerland are simply stunning.
There are four main sectors to explore at Breuil-Cervinia:
Matterhorn Paradise is the highest sector, with slopes reaching up to 3,899 meters (12,743 feet). The views from this sector are breathtaking, and the skiing is some of the best in Italy.
Plan Maison is a good choice for intermediate skiers and snowboarders, with a wide variety of slopes to choose from. There are also plenty of off-piste opportunities in this sector.
Valtournenche is the largest sector, with over 100 kilometers of slopes. There are slopes to suit all levels of ability, from beginner to expert.
Torgnon is a smaller sector, but it's perfect for families and beginners. There are gentle slopes and plenty of activities for kids, such as a snowpark and a toboggan run.
No matter your skill level, you're sure to find something to enjoy at Breuil-Cervinia. So strap on those ski boots and get ready for a truly magical skiing experience.
Ponte di Legno - Tonale
Nestled amidst the picturesque Brenta Dolomites, Ponte di Legno is a renowned ski resort that offers an exhilarating skiing experience for all levels. The resort seamlessly blends its green runs destined for beginners with challenging black runs aimed at experienced skiers, therefore catering to a diverse range of abilities.
The interconnected ski areas of Ponte di Legno, Temù, Passo Tonale, and Presena Glacier provide a vast expanse of terrain to explore, ensuring that skiers and snowboarders can always find new challenges and breathtaking views. The Presena Glacier, with its consistent snow cover even during the warmer months, offers a unique opportunity for year-round cold-weather activities.
Beyond the slopes, Ponte di Legno offers an enchanting atmosphere with its traditional chalets, cozy cafes, and lively après-ski venues. The resort's rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere create an unforgettable après-ski experience that extends well into the night.
Whether you're seeking easy slopes for a leisurely ride, challenging black runs to test your limits, or simply breathtaking views amidst stunning natural beauty, Ponte di Legno promises an unforgettable alpine skiing adventure.
St. Moritz
Nestled amidst the picturesque scenery of the Upper Engadine Valley in Switzerland lies the renowned ski resort of St. Moritz. Distinguished as a luxury alpine retreat, St. Moritz offers a captivating blend of world-class skiing, charming village ambiance, and a rich cultural heritage.
With over 350 kilometers of slopes and a peak altitude of 3,057 meters, St. Moritz caters to winter sports enthusiasts of all levels.
Beyond the slopes, St. Moritz exudes a captivating charm, with a picturesque village center lined with traditional chalets, elegant hotels, and lively après-ski venues. The resort's rich cultural heritage, dating back to the Roman era, adds another layer of allure, with renowned events like the White Turf horse race drawing visitors from around the globe.
The town and its resorts is known for being particularly high-profile, and a playground for billionaires. In fact, it isn’t considered to be a cheap, last-minute weekend trip, rather a more special trip to be planned in advance. It truly is an unforgettable alpine destination that caters to a diverse range of interests and preferences. Whether seeking the thrill of the slopes, the warmth of the après-ski scene, or a glimpse into Switzerland's rich cultural tapestry, St. Moritz promises an unparalleled winter escape.
Provenzana (a long-distance wild card)
Situated on the northern slopes of Mount Etna at an altitude of 2,400 meters, Piano Provenzana is a unique ski resort in Sicily, offering a thrilling skiing experience amidst the active volcano's breathtaking scenery. The resort comprises a network of six slopes, ranging from gentle green runs suitable for beginners to challenging black runs that test the skills of experienced skiers.
The surrounding volcanic landscape provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for your skiing adventures, with stunning views of the snow-capped Etna towering above.
Beyond the slopes, Piano Provenzana offers a variety of activities to enhance your winter getaway. Cross-country skiing enthusiasts can explore the well-maintained 5-kilometer trail, while nature lovers can embark on hiking trails through the Ragabo forest, the highest-located pine forest in Sicily.
For truly breathtaking views amidst the unique volcanic landscape, Piano Provenzana promises an unforgettable skiing adventure in the heart of Sicily.