Skiing in Italy

There is a certain romance about Italy that makes it the number one choice for a multitude of skiers each year. And, if you're interested in skiing the Alps for less, Italy's the place. From its northern snow-tipped peaks, you can also venture towards the cultural hotbeds of Rome and Turin, and experience Italy on foot.

Italy's resorts can broken up into three geographic regions:

Western, just beyond Turin and bordering France; Northern, which is north of Turn in the Aosta Valley and toward the border with Switzerland; and Eastern, in the rugged Dolomites.

Here are just a few of the Italian skiing areas where you can experience Italy at her best.

Limone - Oldest Ski Area in Italy

Limone happens to be one of Italy's oldest skiing areas, located near the French border and only 30 miles from Nice. Do you like history? Then you'll love Limone with it's twelfth century church and other interesting old buildings. How about food? Okay, most people like food. But, do you LOVE food? You won't be disappointed in Limone, with over 50 restaurants to chose from.

Just the facts:

Ski runs - 46
Top elevation - 6689 ft.
Vertical drop - 3033 ft.
Lifts - 29
Beginner Runs - 13%
Intermediate Runs - 69%
Expert Runs - 18%
Season - December until April

Alba - One of Italy's Smaller Resorts

One of Italy’s smallest resorts, tucked up high, near Canazei in the North, is Alba, with amazing off piste skiing. Yes, there's only 5 lifts, but if you're into peaceful surroundings while you ski, then Alba is for you. And, Alba is close to the Marmolada Glacier for skiing in the late season and summer. You may also want to explore Alba's many cross-country skiing trails as well.

Just the Facts:

Longest run - 3.1 miles
Top elevation - 7,087 Ft.
Vertical drop - 2,165 Ft.
Lifts - 5
Beginner Runs - 20%
Intermediate Runs - 50%
Advanced Runs - 30%

Selva Gardena - One of Italy's Largest Resorts

From the smallest to the highest; Selva Gardena is one of Italy’s largest resorts in the Sella Ronda ski area, well as being one that's known to be family-friendly. Its consistent snow coverage makes this resort a consistently good skiing experience.

Just the Facts:

Top elevation - 8,270 ft
Lifts - 81
Beginner Runs - 35%
Intermediate Runs - 55%
Advanced Runs - 10%

Passo Tonale - Italy's Highest Resort

Located on the border of Trentino and Lombardy regions in the Val de Sole, Passo Tonale is an ideal family resort, focussed more around beginners and intermediates, and one of the leading Italian destinations for skiers from abroad. Passo Tonale is also home to a top-notch ski school. From the peak of Passo Tonale, you are faced with a wonderful panoramic view of the whole region, which is truly breathtaking. So breathtaking, in fact, that you may forget to ski and may just want to stare at the view.

Just the Facts:

Top elevation - 9925 ft.
Vertical drop - 3747 ft.
Lifts - 20
Beginner Runs - 10%
Intermediate Runs - 45%
Advanced Runs - 35%
Expert Runs - 10%

Cortina - Remote, But Worth It

Yes, it's a three-hour drive from Venice via steep and winding mountain roads. But, it's worth it. Spread over three mountains and boasting 50 lifts, with awesome views, intermediate skiers will love it that 62% of the terrain is devoted to them.

Just the Facts:

Ski runs - 101
Top elevation - 10,640 ft.
Vertical drop - 6178 ft.
Lifts - 51
Beginner Runs - 33%
Intermediate Runs - 62%
Expert Runs - 5%

Synonyms: taly, tialy, iitaly, ialy, iatly, ittaly, itly, itlay, itaaly, itay, itayl, itally, ital, italyy are common typos for Italy.  Kiing, ksiing, sskiing, siing, siking, skkiing, sking, skiing, skiiing, sking, skinig, skiiing, skiig, skiign, skiinng, skiin, and skiingg are typos for skiing.