Cortina - Slope

The season runs from mid-November to early May.

Cortina is marvellous for beginners, with the Socrepes area being especially user-friendly, while intermediate skiers, who don't mind repeating the same runs, will enjoy the Tofana and Faloria sectors.

Advanced and expert skiers may find their on-piste options limited, although the steep black at Tofana is fun, and Staunies from the top of Cristallo is challenging. It is worth hiring a local guide to check out some of the off-piste descents, for which the region is famous.

Other than complete beginners, all skiers can enjoy the lovely ‘Hidden Valley’ run through magnificent mountain scenery and finishing with a horse-drawn lift ride. The fun but busy Sella Ronda circuit is also accessible from here by taking a bus to the Fassa Valley.

Lifts are generally fast and efficient, but at peak season queues may be a minor problem. Snow conditions are not that reliable in Cortina, but 95% of the area is covered by snow machines. In fact, over the last few seasons Cortina has widely been regarded as having been one of the most snowsure resorts in the Alps and its environs.

There are four ski schools in Cortina, which have received mixed reports and can at times have a feeling of insouciance about them.