Skiing may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of holidays in Italy. You’d be forgiven for dreaming only of pizzas adorned with the finest local ingredients or trying your very best to sample every type of pasta ever invented. In a week.

But why not attempt to do all of this and more at the same time as tackling the slopes? You can taste the finest of Italian culture and food and tick off your yearly ski holiday all in one fell swoop.

If food is your thing, but you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, in the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites region you’ll find plenty of renowned restaurants such as La Siriola, which boasts two Michelin stars, a chocolate room and a ten-course tasting menu. The chef puts a focus on local Italian specialities, with an international influence and haute cuisine flair.

Another misconception about skiing in Italy is that there is less chance of good snow conditions due to the climate. This is simply not true, since the Italian Alps and Dolomites boast such high altitudes. There are over a dozen mountain peaks in the Dolomites which exceed 3,000m above sea level, and Mont Blanc itself skirts the Italian Alps.

The very best of Bella Italia can be experienced from the Alps. The scenery is distinctive and unique, with a mountain landscape that lives up to the rest of this outstandingly-beautiful country. 

Italians are famous for their heartfelt and friendly nature, so you’re bound to experience a warm welcome in the Italian Alps. Their famous laid-back attitude really merges well with ski culture, and it’s a haven for those seeking to really chill out. Après ski in the region adopts a similar approach, with Aperitivo and good conversations being the name of the game.

Skiing in Italy allows your money to stretch even further than you’d expect. Eating out in restaurants is famously good value in Italy, and the Italian Alps are no exception. Italian ski resorts also have some of the most affordable ski passes available in the Alps, and activities such as shopping are notably cheaper than in some other alpine regions. You’ll even find a duty-free shopping haven in the traffic-free town of Livigno.

You’ll be able to eat all of the most delicious Italian food guilt-free if you’ve had a strenuous day of skiing all day!