Italy unlike its other skiing neighbours tends not be visited that much by the British Skier, unlike its popularity in the summer. Things are changing has skiers and boarders realise what you get for your money when holidaying here.

What you will get is some of the best groomed slopes, wide pistes,  great for beginners and intermediates wanting to learn. Some of the most stunning mountain views that you could ever wish for, especially in the Aosta Valley and the Dolomites ski area with its jagged peaks. Snow conditions especially to the east of Italy can be some of the best throughout Europe, you will often find when other countries are suffering that Italy is doing very well.

Here you will find beautiful traditional old villages with natural stone roofs, many are still the original roofs from when the property was built. Locals here will go out there way to help and especially if you are travelling with children. Let’s not forget the next big tick for Italy and that’s the food. Well expect a lot of it and at a great price, from oven baked Pizza’s to fresh Pasta you can’t really go wrong. So unlike other countries where it tends to be a lot of cheesed based dishes, even though there are many Italian dishes with cheese you can eat something different. Expect to see the locals having long lunches and watching others ski!

Skiing is varied with runs to suit all levels, if you like your off piste please  do be careful as some Italian resorts will not allow it, though this is questionable , so its best checking with the local Tourist office or lift company when you arrive in your resort. One thing for sure is that all Children up to the age of 14 must wear a helmet, which is a great and hopefully we will see this law come in to effect in other countries also.

Driving to Italy is possible, but it’s probably best to stick to the western resorts of Italy like the Milky way region, resorts like Sestriere or Bardonecchia. Other spots include the Aosta valley with resorts like Courmayeur , Pila and La Thuille which can all be accessed via the Mont Blanc tunnel from Chamonix.

Accommodation wise unlike Austria, France and Switzerland you will find less catered ski chalets, this may explain why less Brits come here. This is slowly changing with more tour operators setting up catered chalets. You will find a fantastic range of Hotels and guest houses. You will also find a good range of self catered properties.

Italy is defiantly worth a try!