10 Locations in Italy for Snow Lovers That Don’t Ski but Love the Weather
Italy’s reputation for being an exquisite summer destination also applies to the winter season, as the country has some memorable places to visit for those that love snow.
Winter sports are undoubtedly fun but visiting Italy during the cold season can also be relaxing, and cosy and offer some of the most breathtaking views. SchengenVisaInfo.com recommends ten mountain spots for those who enjoy spending time in the snow or watching it.
1. Roccaraso
There are many trails to try snowshoeing or Nordic walking on this mountain, which is never too cold, with the temperatures almost never dropping below seven degrees. In addition, visitors here can indulge in a snowmobile excursion or spend some time in the adventure parks nearby.
Skating at the city’s ice rink is also advisable for those seeking a thrill while for a relaxing time, booking a spa day at Rivisondoli’s Terme Alte, is the right decision. Moreover, Rome is less than two hours away from this destination and you can easily pay a visit to the capital!
2. Madonna di Campiglio
This place is vibrant for those that aren’t focused on skiing alone. You can have a day at the thermal spa centre, or in the evening you can indulge in games at arcades, discos and nightclubs or go watch a movie at the cinemas.
The closest city is Milan, which can be reached in a little over three hours. The same applies to visitors from Venice.
3. Ovindoli
Some of the most fun activities in this destination include exploring the city, going horseback riding, snowshoeing or visiting Ovindoli’’s adventure park. A unique view that one should not miss is the Villa of Prince Torlonia, which lies over the Fucino Valley.
4. Courmayeur
Those that don’t love skiing would love this destination that offers ice skating and climbing, in addition to thermal spas that also have health benefits.
At this destination, one can also enjoy an afternoon of shopping in the streets of the centre. Later on, visitors can go drinking at many locales and pubs.
5. Livigno
This place has a little of everything! Skiing is always an option but here you can also go shopping in the historic centre, with tax-free prices, followed by a snowshoe hike in the woods and enjoying Livigno’s spas. However, for those looking forward to visiting places like the Livigno Dairy or Livigno Brewery, we highly recommend bringing warm clothes as the temperature drops to -12° during the winter.
6. Breuil-Cervinia
Cervinia offers a great selection of activities that you can do in a beautiful winter destination such as this one. Visitors can go paragliding or try to climb an ice wall while those with a more relaxed approach should try snowmobile excursions or drive a go-kart on ice.
7. Abetone
It counts as a visit if there is a little exploration going on between the city centre and the surrounding areas. You can take a cable car from Monte Gomito to visit the Black Lake of Abetone or go straight to the Forest Botanical Garden. Mountains are also very accessible by choosing the railway network or taking a car.
8. Pila
Whether you are a couple, or you visit Pila with friends or family, anyone can have fun here. However, one thing not to miss is heading to the wonderful refuges of Pila, including the Arbolle and the Adolphe Letey refuge in Champollion.
A favourite destination of the Turinese is just 115 km from the city and it can be covered in roughly over an hour.
9. Sestriere
Dog sledging is the first activity you have to try if you are coming to Sestriere! Spas, heated pools or even golf courses are all at visitors’ disposal in this destination, making the winter season quite enjoyable, even if you don’t prefer skiing or winter sports.
10. Etna
Visiting Etna during summer is one thing but during the winter season, it is one of the most popular destinations for those who aren’t fond of skiing. You can choose between the Nicolosi adventure park, the spa and the Linguaglossa refuge or go on a unique snowshoe hike on Etna.
However, just because Etna is located in the south, it doesn’t mean that the weather is warm. In fact, we recommend putting on your warmest clothes as the temperatures in the area fluctuate between -4 and -15°C.
