Italy is known for many things; it’s luxurious leather, homemade warming food, being the home to some of the most renowned fashion houses and last, but in no way least, its Italian Alps. Over the years people from all over the globe have been visiting Italy to get a taste of the finer things in life; it is a country that speaks the language of love and is driven by family gatherings and events.
As with many countries we visit, there are always places we forget to see and activities we can’t find time to do. Italy has its own hidden treasure high up in the mountains, welcoming families and friends each and every season.
When visiting Italy you can plan a road trip to a different world, a snow haven and the perfect location for a family holiday. Many people have said that a skiing holiday with loved ones is a difficult one to beat; the memories gained, the experience and après ski keep adding to the reasons why more and more people go skiing.
If you have the chance to arrange a mini road trip, getting to the Alps usually takes around 2-3 hours if you’re staying in Verona, then get planning. Within a short journey you will leave the rivers, vineyards and cafes behind to welcome a snowy setting you could only dream of. If you remember the excitement of being a child and seeing snow upon waking up, that feeling comes running back. The closest ski resorts from Verona are, Madonna di Campiglio, Passo Tonale and Folgarida each resort is different and caters to all skiing abilities and family needs.
Madonna di Campiglio
Madonna di Campiglio is a picturesque town and has the Italian aura throughout. The town has its luxury clothing, jewellery and footwear shops as well as traditional restaurants and bars; it’s no surprise that this is the most popular resort for the Italians. If you can’t bring yourself to leave the fashionable streets of Verona, then this is the perfect resort for you offering everything you need. The resort is suitable for all levels of skiers with nursery, red and steep black runs; fantastic for the advanced skiers or snowboarders. Madonna di Campiglio is also home to the 3 Tres Alpine World Cup, which is a great addition to you ski holiday if you are lucky enough to watch it. There’s a great selection of hotels here from 2 stars to 5+ stars and all are family friendly, but as always check online for reviews.
Folgarida
The ski resort of Folgarida is smaller than Madonna di Campiglio, but it has one of the best hotels within the Italian Alps; which is nearly always fully booked but you can arrange dinner there should you be staying at a local hotel. The food is amazing, with 4 courses all suitable for meat eaters and vegetarians ending with a dessert selection to die for. To access the slopes, you take a quick ski lift and off you go. As with all ski resorts, if you are a first time skier make sure you book you ski lessons, these are easy to arrange and can be done before or on arrival at the resort; if you are going at peak season times it is best to book beforehand.
Passo Tonale
Passo Tonale is a lot more open than the others and driving is all one level once you have entered the resort. There are hotels to suit all budgets and requirements, but if you are travelling with children the best family hotel there is the Hotel Adamello; it’s run by a family who have three children so have everything you and your child would need for a relaxing stay. There are plenty of slopes for all levels of skiers with some great red and black runs for the more advanced; you can also try their cross country skiing for a mix of adrenaline.
So when visiting Italy you can now uncover this hidden treasure to add to the sights and experiences Italy have to offer. If you consider skiing, it is best to hire your ski wear on resort or borrow from a family member or friend to save some money and if you want cheaper prices when taking your family skiing in Italy in 2013, then look at booking off peak times.
