Val d'Aoste and the Dolomites, the hot skiing resorts of the Italian Alps

Escapade to the Val d’Aoste, in Italy

In the northwestern part of Italy, the Aosta valley territory, surrounded by the highest Alpine peaks, offers spectacular landscapes and vistas. Furthermore, culture buffs will be delighted when visiting its captial, Aosta. It showcases many monuments that are a testimony to history, such as Fort Bard, a 19th century fortress built by the House of Savoie. The local patrimony is also an opportunity to discover the Roman ruins of Augusta Praetoria, typical villages, towers and castles. So if you are seeking a little authenticity, head for Courmayeur, La Thuile, Breuil-Cervinia, Champduc and Gressoney. These mountain towns are favorite destinations of celebrities who appreciate incognito holidays on the rooftop of Europe…

On the snow-capped peaks of southern Tyrol, flags float proudly : regional, Italian and European. © DR

Serviced ski trails and sunny slopes are part of a holiday in the Val d'Aoste. © DR

Downhill schuss in the Dolomites

At 1860 meters of altitude, fans of winter sports appreciate the 175 km of slopes, the 84 ski lifts and the snow metro of the Italian Alps, where they can enjoy many gliding opportunities. This region of South-Tyrol with a semi-mountaineous and semi-Mediterranean climate features a service domain linked to Val Gardena. Downhill skiing, cross-country, snowboard, sled promenades and snowshoe outings take place with as background the snow-capped peaks of the stunning Dolomites, a massif part of the UNESCO World Patrimony. The strong identity of this legendary land has many assets : preserved villages, lush prairies, famous vineyards and outstanding gastronomy. A unique region to recharge your batteries at the dawn of a new year !

At the foot of Mont Dzerbion, Antagnod is one of the most handsome villages of the Italian mountains. © DR

Fort Bard shelters museums, a cultural center, concert halls, a hotel, restaurants and specialized boutiques. © DR

Far from packed winter resorts, skiing in the Dolomites is a real pleasure for snow lovers of all levels. © DR

Staying in Val d’Aoste

At l'Auberge de la Maison, for an « Alpine well-being week» package, at 1 029 € per person. It includes accomodations for 7 nights in a Classic double room, one meal per day with a tasting dinner of local specialties and its selection of wines from the valley, a 30-minute personalized massage as well as the Courmayeur ski pass for 6 days. www.aubergemaison.it

Dive into this outdoor pool, the water heated at 30°C degrees offers quite a contrast with the surrounding temperature… © DR

Staying in the Dolomites

At the Alpina Dolomites Gardena Health Lodge & Spa, a 5 star combines charm with modernity. The « Grand Ski Week » package at 3 539 €, includes 7 nights with one meal per day, accomodations in a Deluxe Suite, ski rental, Skipasses, 6 days of Skiguiding with an instructor, 1 Active body treatment and a daily « Movement and Relaxation » programme. www.alpinadolomites.it/fr

As soon as the first snow falls, from the hotel you can ski right down into the valley. © DR