Tuscany is unlikely to spring to mind for most who are planning a ski break but if you are considering a winter break in one of Tuscany’s great cities – Florence, Pisa, Lucca, or Siena – you’ll find that one of the best ski areas in central Italy is a short distance away: Abetone. However, this is actually just one of the well-regarded ski destinations in the region. So, if you’ve been considering a ski break this winter but you’d also like to indulge in the rich cuisine, delicious wines, and particularly delightful après ski on offer in Tuscany, then it might be time to book a vacation rental in Tuscany....
Located to the north of the region, on the border of Emilia Romagna and Tuscany and in the province of Pistoia, Abetone is one of the most important ski resorts in the Apennines. Easily accessible if you book a villa in Pistoia or a vacation rental in Florence, it boasts over 50km of slopes, spread over four interconnected valleys – Luce Valley, Scoltenna Valley, Sestaione Valley, and Lima Valley.
Well-equipped, with 21 ski lifts located across the resort to help you get around, two ski schools, stores for hiring ski equipment, a cross-country skiing circuit, and an array of bars and restaurants, it is also full of charm.
For those who are learning to ski for the first time, advanced skiers, those just planning a day-trip, and those in your party who might be more interested in enjoying the beautiful winter scenery from indoors while sipping a hot drink, it offers equally delightful experiences! A key ski destination since the early 20th century, it’s a solid choice for anyone thinking about a ski break in Tuscany!
Monte Amiata, meanwhile, is located to the south of Tuscany, between the provinces of Siena and Grosseto. Home to one of Europe’s largest beech forests, it is a smaller ski resort than Abetone but still has a lot to offer in terms of charming setting and great ski facilities.
There are just 12km of Alpine slopes here but there is something for everyone, no matter their experience or skill level. However, this resort is especially suited to beginners and intermediate skiers. An additional 10km of cross-country skiing slopes can be enjoyed, with the beech forest acting as the most beautiful surroundings and eight ski-lifts help guests get all around this charming little resort.
A new snow park also offers options for those who might not to ski or who want to try something new, offering bob-sledding, snow-tubing, and a half pipe for snowboarders. The villages of this pretty mountain area are full of character and also worth exploring if you find a vacation rental in the Monte Amiata area. If you need to warm up and have a good soak after all that time in the snow? Then head to nearby Bagni San Filippo and its natural thermal baths.
Dognaccia – Cutigliano
Known as Dognaccia 2000, this ski resort can be found in Cutigliano, Pistoia, just 50km from Florence and 25km from the city of Pistoia, It has 10km of Alpine slopes, with something for kids, beginners, and experienced skiers. Totally picturesque, like many of these destinations, Dognaccia is popular for skiing in the winter and then for hiking and relaxation in the summer months, known as a particular haven for Italian intellects.
With a great ski school, lifts servicing the area, ski tubing and cross-country skiing options as well, and artificial snow guaranteeing a full ski season, no matter the weather on any given year, it is always a solid choice. Just find a holiday rental in Pistoia and come explore this charming resort!
Zum Zeri
This ski area of Tuscany is located in Lunigiana, in the province of Massa Carrara, on the border of Tuscany, Liguria, and Emilia Romagna and boasts stunning mountain scenery and views out to the Ligurian and Tyrrhenian Seas.
Considered an ideal option for kids and families, there are two facilities with a combined 8km of slopes that range from easy to medium difficulty – so, maybe not the best choice for the expert skier looking for a challenge, though there are a couple of black slopes. It is also a particularly popular spot for snowboarders and there is a snow park to enjoy. The restaurant on the refuge is well-known as a good spot to try local dishes once you work up an appetite out on the slopes. Then, you can return home to your vacation rental in Lunigiana, tired but full of good memories and food!
Garfagnana
Garfagnana is a ski area that boasts 3 little resorts nestled in the beautiful surrounds of the wild Apuan Alps – Careggine, Casone di Profecchia, and Passo delle Radici – and all located around one hour from the city of Lucca, making it easy to book a villa in Lucca and plan day-trips.
Careggine has two ski schools and 6km of slopes, best serving children, beginners and intermediate skiers. A hotel overlooking the slopes and artificial snow ensure a guaranteed season and some great après ski.
Casone di Profecchia sees its lifts managed by the same people who run the charmingly historic hotel and restaurant Il Casone, mere steps from the slopes. It is another good choice for families and beginners as you can expect slopes that are wide and not overly full of other skiers. A ski school, bob-sledding, and Nordic skiing are also on offer.
Passo delle Radici in San Pellegrino in Alpe is located on the border between Tuscany and Emilia Romagna and has 4km of Alpine slopes but is best known for its for cross-country skiing. The ski area of Piandelagotti Frassinoro, just across the border in Emilia Romagna, has a further 40km of Nordic ski trails, meaning that those who really want to enjoy this kind of skiing have an incredible route to explore.
There are actually even more skiing options in Tuscany but, with these alone, you can see that it’s actually a pretty great option for your next ski break!
