Skiing & Snowboarding in Tuscany 2024-2025

Though Tuscany is renowned for its rolling hills, medieval towns, and iconic Renaissance art, it also offers a surprising variety of winter sports options. While not as famous as the Alpine slopes, Tuscany’s ski resorts provide a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural richness, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re an experienced skier or new to the slopes, Tuscany has something to offer during the winter season.

When to Visit for Skiing in Tuscany

The best time to enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Tuscany is between December and March. During this period, snowfall is generally most reliable, especially in higher-altitude resorts like Abetone. If you want to avoid the crowds, visiting in January or early March may offer a quieter experience with fewer tourists. Peak times, such as Christmas and New Year holidays, see an influx of visitors, so early bookings are advised.

Abetone Ski Resort

Located on the border between Tuscany and Emilia Romagna, Abetone is Tuscany’s premier ski destination. Established in the early 20th century, it has grown to become the largest and most popular ski area in the Apennines, drawing winter sports enthusiasts from across Europe. Just a two-hour drive from Florence, Abetone features over 30 miles (50 km) of ski runs catering to all skill levels, making it a versatile choice for families, beginners, and experts alike.

Slopes and Lifts

Abetone offers more than 30 slopes, with a mix of blue, red, and black trails. Beginners can practice on the easier blue runs, while more advanced skiers will appreciate the challenges of the red and black slopes. The resort is serviced by five ski lifts, including chairlifts and t-bars, with options for both solo and group riders. The Val di Luce area also includes a snow park, offering terrain for snowboarders and freestyle enthusiasts.

Prices and Rentals

Lift tickets at Abetone are reasonably priced compared to larger European resorts. As of the 2024 season, a full-day ski pass ranges from €30 to €50, depending on the time of year and specific areas accessed. Equipment rental services are widely available, with prices for basic ski or snowboard gear starting at approximately €25 per day.

Doganaccia 2000

Situated east of Abetone, Doganaccia 2000 is another top choice for winter sports in Tuscany. Though smaller, this resort offers a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds. The area is also known for its alternative winter activities, such as snowshoeing, snowkiting, and paragliding.

Slopes and Lifts

Doganaccia boasts around 9 miles (15 km) of slopes, ideal for intermediate skiers. The school field, known as one of the most beautiful in the Montagna Pistoiese, offers a free 197-foot (60-meter) moving walkway for beginners, along with a 2625-foot (800-m) ski lift, and has a vertical drop of 394 feet (120 m). From here, skiers can access multiple slopes, including Campo Scuola, Uno, Due, Tre, and Raccordino. The Faggio di Maria ski lift services additional trails such as Direttissima and the Panoramic slope, which stretches nearly 2.5 miles (4 km). Off-piste opportunities and scenic routes like the ski mountaineering trail to Mount Cornaccio provide extra adventure.

Night Skiing and Extra Activities

Doganaccia is particularly famous for its illuminated slopes, which allow for night skiing, a unique experience in Tuscany. The resort also offers guided snowshoe excursions and access to the Amerigo Colò ski school, providing lessons for beginners. The scenic Cutigliano-Doganaccia cable car adds to the charm, offering panoramic views of the Central Apennines.

Prices

The Doganaccia ski resort offers a variety of pricing options for lift passes and ski services. A 1-day ticket ranges from €20 on weekdays without the cableway to €29 on non-working days with the cableway. Morning and afternoon passes are available at lower rates, starting from €15. Multi-day passes offer discounts, with a 2-day pass priced between €35 and €53, depending on the day and inclusion of the cableway. Additionally, night skiing is available for €20, or €15 for children, and private lessons with ski instructors start at €30 per hour.