Abetone

It’s true that the Apennines is smaller and less majestic than the Alps. However, they have a charm all of their own and when you go to Abetone and take the Monte Gomito ski lift you’ll find yourself on the top of a ridge crest, with all of Emillia extending gracefully in one direction and most of Tuscany in the other.

The Abetone area has the best developed skiing in central Italy with up to 20k of runs; drive up to the main square to park - if you need equipment there are 2 sports shops that will rent all you need. Once you’re set, it’s just a 2-minute walk to the chair lift to the top of Monte Selleta (1711m). From the top you have a choice of a number of trails - most are rated blue (easy) which wind pleasantly down through the forest. A couple of the slopes are rated red (intermediate) which are exhilarating with alternating dips that allow you to pick up speed and flat sections where you can regain control!

If the weather is good begin your exploration of the Valley of Light with a trip up to the Alpe Tre Polenzel (1940m) - you’ll be able to see all the way to the Tuscan coast and also grab a bite to eat or simply soak up those rays!

Best of all, Abetone is only a 40 minute drive away - enough time to ski in the morning and hit the beach in the afternoon!