Which is the best ski resort in Italy?

With so many worthy contenders, how would we even begin to choose the best ski resort in Italy? Well it depends on what is most important to you – reliable snowfall, diverse terrain, stunning iconic peaks or lively apres-ski?

The best ski resort in Italy

We have compiled our top six contenders for the title of the best ski resort in Italy.

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Elegant town and iconic peaks

Located in the Dolomites, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a glamorous resort known for its winter sports and UNESCO World Heritage site. Cortina’s ski area covers 156km of interconnected slopes with neighbouring Pinzolo and Folgarida-Marilleva. The slopes in Cortina are well-groomed, suitable for all levels and also surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Skiers can enjoy views of the iconic Dolomite peaks while navigating the diverse terrain. The Tofana-Ski Tour is a popular route which includes a series of slopes and lifts that take you through varied terrain and offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The town of Cortina is known for its elegant shops, upscale restaurants, and lively après-ski scene.

Courmayeur

Heliskiing next to Mont Blanc

Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc in the Aosta Valley, Courmayeur is a charming alpine town with narrow cobblestone streets and a vibrant atmosphere. The Skyway Monte Bianco is a cable car that takes visitors to Punta Helbronner, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Advanced skiers and snowboarders can explore challenging terrain, including steep descents and awesome off-piste opportunities. Courmayeur is one of the few places in Italy where heliskiing is permitted. The resort is known for its excellent culinary scene either in the town or numerous mountain huts. You will also find thermal spas to relax and unwind after a day on the slopes.

Val Gardena

Explore the Sellaronda ski circuit

Val Gardena is known for its extensive ski terrain, picturesque villages, and the famous Sella Ronda ski circuit. The resort is part of the Dolomiti Superski (1,200km) offering access to an extensive network of ski slopes, including those in Selva, Ortisei, and Santa Cristina. Val Gardena is a key part of the Sellaronda, a famous ski circuit around the Sella massif. Skiers can complete the Sellaronda loop, connecting the valleys of Val Gardena, Alta Badia, Arabba, and Val di Fassa. The ski areas offer a mix of gentle slopes for beginners, well-groomed intermediate runs, and challenging descents for advanced skiers.

Alta Badia

Gourmet delights on the slopes

Another jewel in the Dolomites, Alta Badia is known for its well-groomed slopes, excellent cuisine, and the stunning backdrop of the Sella Massif. The resort is part of the Dolomiti Superski, with its access to 1200km of slopes. Alta Badia is a key component of the Sellaronda, a famous ski circuit that circumnavigates the Sella massif. Alta Badia is renowned for its gourmet cuisine on the slopes. The region hosts the “Sommelier on the Slopes” event, where skiers can experience wine tastings and gourmet delights at various mountain huts.

Livigno

Reliable snowfall and tax-free shopping

Located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, near the Swiss border, Livigno boasts reliable snowfall, extensive ski slopes, and duty-free shopping. Due to its high altitude (1,816m), Livigno enjoys good snow conditions throughout the winter season. The ski resort is divided into two main areas: Carosello 3000 and Mottolino. Carosello 3000 is known for its long, wide slopes for beginners/intermediates while Mottolino offers a good mix of terrain for different levels. You’ll find terrain parks for snowboarders and freestyle enthusiasts. Livigno is a duty-free zone, making it a shopping haven for visitors. The town also has a vibrant après-ski scene with numerous bars, pubs, and restaurants.

Sestriere

High-altitude skiing and 400km of slopes

High-altitude Sestriere (2,035m) is part of the extensive Via Lattea (Milky Way) ski, which is one of the largest interconnected ski areas in Europe (400km). Neighbouring resorts within the Via Lattea include Sauze d’Oulx, Claviere, Cesana, Sansicario, and Montgenèvre in France. The combined ski area offers cross-boarder skiing and a wide variety of slopes catering to different skill levels, from beginner to expert. You’ll find everything from open powder bowls to pretty, tree-lined slopes. Sestriere typically enjoys good snow conditions during the winter months and the ski season usually runs from December to April. Sestriere also offers a lively apres-ski scene, with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops.