The Dolomites

Elevated among the lofty heights of the Dolomites, fresh-fallen snow adorns a scenery of summits on the Alpe di Siusi. Perched on a plateau far-flung from the hubbub of village nightlife, an air of calming quietude characterises the resort.

A window to a winter wonderland of opportunity, such a subdued corner of the Italian Alps has close connections to the wider ski world, so those in search of an adventure on the slopes need not go far. Setting out directly from the doorstep, ever-popular examples include snowshoe trekking and cross-country skiing.

They say practice makes perfect, and the smaller ski area on the Alpe di Siusi makes for an ideal introduction for skiers still finding their feet. Gliding into the wider Val Gardena area is common for the more experienced slope-sliders, with 175km of linked slopes a short lift ride away, and the Sella Rhonda circuit beckoning beyond.

A ski area surrounding the vibrant village with which it shares its name, Madonna di Campiglio is best experienced a little off-centre, from the traditional village of Pinzolo; a quaint, quiet spot characterised by its local restaurants and alpine charm.

Enveloped by the beauty of Adamello Brenta Nature Park, the scenery here is one of towering glaciers, silver lakes and snow-dusted fir forests. Effortlessly festive, the sweetness of chocolate-box charm transcends this resort in the heart of the Trentino region, famed for its collection of sumptuous spas and Michelin-starred restaurants. 

A winter wonderland where Italian glamour meets ski chic, intermediates soar over these pistes, exploring 156km of linked slopes. Starting out in petite Pinzolo, quieter runs defrost any ski skills that may be ever-so-slightly rusty, before exploring the wider Madonna di Campiglio area weaves through routes flanked by fir trees for dramatic views of the Dolomites.

Uncrowded, hassle free and much filmed ‘Queen of the Dolomites’, even the locals find it hard to say no to Cortina d’Ampezzo’s allure. Defining Italian ski chic, the vibrant traffic-free centre tempts with upmarket designer shops and gourmet restaurants.

Backdropped by soaring vistas of the Dolomites, the beautiful wilderness not only serves up the likes of ice skating, ice karting, snowmobiling, ice climbing, snow driving and snow kiting, but it will also host the Winter Olympics in 2026.

Cortina d’Ampezzo offers endless pistes dramatically back dropped by snow-dusted forests and the spellbinding pink-hued granite peaks of the Dolomiti, restaurants serving high class Italian fare, and ski runs perfect for both intermediates and beginners. As it gears up for the 2026 Winter Olympics, the resort features new and upgraded lifts, including the Cortina Skyline, which now connects the Tofana area to the Cinque Torri slopes. previously only accessed by road.

The lure of Dolomite traditions enhances the tranquillity of well-heeled San Cassiano; gourmets will love the choice of Michelin-starred restaurants both on and off the pistes.

The lure of Dolomite traditions enhances the tranquillity of well-heeled San Cassiano; with Michelin-starred restaurants both on and off the pistes and a relaxed après-ski scene completing the puzzle. A winter retreat hiding from the crowds in a valley embrace, beyond the realms of the tiny village lie 40km of scenic cross-country trails and the potential for sleigh rides and snowshoeing.

San Cassiano, in the heart of Alta Badia, offers a plethora of pistes with stunning views of the Dolomiti Superski Region. Known for its extensive cruising runs and gourmet mountain restaurants, it’s ideal not only for intermediates but also improving beginners. The area connects well to the Sella Ronda circuit and features the beautiful 11km Hidden Valley red run, ending with a horse-drawn ski tow.