Ski the Dolomites in Madonna di Campiglio

Madonna di Campiglio (1550m) is one of the most exclusive ski resorts in Italy. The elegant main piazza is lined with upmarket shops and cafés and there are a number of exclusive bars and restaurants that offer a lively nightlife. The resort is linked with the Folgarida-Marilleva and Pinzolo ski areas to make up the ‘Ski Area Campiglio Dolomiti’ offering 150km of pristine slopes from 850 to 2500m, with a total of 100 pistes (45 blue, 37 red, 18 black), 61 lifts, and 5 snowparks. Beginners have the large Campo Carlo Magno (approx 2km from the centre of Madonna di Campiglio, reachable by ski bus) to learn on, before graduating to the wide, easy blue runs in the main ski area. Intermediate skiers will love cruising along the numerous wide blue and red runs and improving their confidence, while more advanced skiers can experience the thrill of the challenging 3tre Canalone, Amazzonia and Spinale Direttissima black runs. For Nordic ski enthusiasts there are 40km of cross country trails. Après ski While there are some good places to stop at on the slopes before heading down on your last run of the day, things really get going before dinner for the traditional Italian aperitivo when the smart cafés and bars around the town fill with people sipping prosecco, aperol spritz and other pre dinner drinks. There are some excellent fine dining choices, with three Michelin starred restaurants (the most of any Italian Alpine resort) and some other, more affordable options. Post dinner there are a few exclusive bars and clubs that usually get busy after midnight, often tables are available by reservation only. Madonna di Campiglio is more expensive than other Italian resorts but there are some more affordable places to eat and drink tucked away around the town. Other activities include open air ice skating, husky dog sledging, snow shoe excursions, and even paragliding.