Italy is not only one of the most
affordable ski destinations, but wonderful resorts such as Livigno and
Sauze d’Oulx offer some of the finest skiing in Europe. The villages
are picturesque and the atmosphere is uniquely Italian.
Italian snow holidays are relatively new to most South African skiers.
This probably has something to do with the strong focus on Austrian resorts
by local tour operators. However, over the past few years resorts like
Livigno in the Italian Alps have earned their colours as exceptionally
well priced destinations with a charm and character all of their own.
The Italians are, by nature, a charming, hospitable and fairly laidback
bunch, particularly on holiday. Their ski resorts are no different! The
atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and the day's activities are seemingly
evenly divided between skiing, some eating, a 'little' drinking and soaking
up the sun on the deck of a mountain hut!
The Italian ski areas are generally well groomed and the pistes are often
not as crowded as those in Austria. The ski region extends from the French
and Swiss borders in the North
West to the spectacular Dolomites in the North East. |