introducing
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Madesimo - A great-value and easy-to-get-to resort in the Italian Alps - F
or clients looking for a ski break in a resort with
varied terrain and plenty of activities beyond the slippery slopes, suggest Madesimo, says Steve Hartridge.
The ski resort sits at 1500 metres and with pistes above 2500 metres great skiing and snowboarding is virtually assured throughout the season. There was certainly no shortage of snow last
winter: in mid-February it was piled so high on buildings that it crashed through some rooftops, prompting city offi cials to shovel it into the river that runs through the village. Key selling points include easy access from
three Milan airports (all within a two-and- a-half-hour drive), uncrowded slopes and no ski lift queues during the week, a lively weekend buzz, great Italian food and wine – such as pizzoccheri, bresaola, pumpkin gnocchi and desserts like aniseed cake and Prosto biscuits – served in some unique and quirky restaurants. Perhaps most attractive of all, Madesimo package prices are extremely affordable, making the resort a great choice for both a week-long break and a long weekend. This winter, when booking a hotel, B&B or apartment for more than two nights before December 27 or after March 22 2015 (including Easter), skiers receive a free ski pass (worth £139 for six days) .
The ski details In the Spluga Valley, in the Lombardy region of the Alps north of Lake Como,
Madesimo is part of the Valchiavenna Ski area. There's nearly 60km of downhill ski slopes and 20km of cross-country ski trails surrounded by fairytale-like panoramas. Madesimo has 32 pistes stretching over 55 kms (34 miles). The resort is best suited to intermediate skiers and snowboarders (36% of runs) and beginners (38%) but there is also plenty of terrain for advanced and expert skiers. There is also fl oodlit skiing and a snowpark for featuring four half pipes.
Other activities There’s a 60km skidoo track that takes snowmobilers (riding the latest Yamahas) up the Spluga pass close to the Swiss border. The trails are mostly wide and open, with great views down into the valley. Or take a night drive with dinner at a mountain lodge. Those who prefer a slower pace can ride up and down the slopes on a snowcat. Ice skating is also available, and,
for the more adventurous, ice driving lessons (£79 for an hour).
Where to stay There’s plenty of hotel and suite options both in the village and up the hillside. La Meridiana is locted in the middle of town and next to one of the main gondolas. It’s a homely hotel with 23 good-sized rooms, a spa and an owner who is willing to keep the bar open until the small hours.
sellingtravel.co.uk
Which client Madesimo's mixed terrain makes it a good suggestion for families. There are several ski hire shops in the centre of town and the Madesimo Vallespluga Ski School offers group and individual lessons. For those who don’t want to ski but do want to get out to the backcountry, snowshoe lessons and walks are available. For the tots, snow fun is on offer at the Baby Park.
Getting there Milan's two airports, Linate (142 km) and Malpensa (173k), are both served by British Airways fl ights. The twice-daily Madesimo Express transfer from both airports operates every Saturday and Sunday until April 12 2015. It is free in December and January and £31 per person for the remainder of the winter. Madesimo can also be reached from Bergamo Orio al Serio airport (fl ights with Ryanair). •
MOMENTUM SKI 020 7371 9111 SEVEN NIGHTS IN
JANUARY AT THE THREE-STAR HOTEL MERIDIANA IS FROM £595pp, FOR TWO SHARING HALF-BOARD, FLIGHTS BETWEEN GATWICK AND MILAN LINATE AND CAR HIRE. FOR A WEEKEND PACKAGE, THREE NIGHTS B&B AT THE TWO-STAR HOTEL K2 STARTS FROM £380pp, WITH FLIGHTS AND CAR HIRE.
momentumski.com
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