From every corner of the globe, skiers flock to Italy. Why Italy? What does this country, three-quarters surrounded by the ocean, have to offer skiers that other countries don't? The answer is simple. Italy has the Dolomites.
The Dolomites are a section of the Alps, located in northeastern Italy. While in the summer and autumn months, the Dolomites are primarily used for mountain climbing, hiking and base jumping, the situation changes in the winter. During the winter months, the Dolomites are a Mecca for international skiing, bringing hundreds of thousands of guests to the country. Year in and year out, this part of the Italian Alps serves as host to novices and experts alike.
The Dolomites get their name from the rock that causes their unique shape and colour. Named after French mineralogist Deodat Gratet de Dolomieu, dolomite is a sedimentary rock mainly formed from carbonate minerals. The molecular properties of the mineral give the mountains their rugged pinnacles and rosy color.
Several towns surrounding the Dolomites feature spectacular ski resorts. In particular, Cortina d'Ampezzo is a resort town with Mediterranean charm. Over fifty ski lifts dot the slopes, and one hundred and forty kilometers of well-groomed ski runs line the mountainside. There are five regions for skiers in Cortina d'Ampezzo, each connected by ski lifts or skibuses. If you're feeling adventurous, there is plenty of room for off piste daredevil skiing. To get to those hard to reach areas of the mountain, heliski services are provided. There is enough excitement for anyone looking to ski on the slopes of the Dolomites near Cortina d'Ampezzo. The town even features views of the Olympic ski area from some of the hotels.
Of course, if one ski area isn't enough, you can always purchase a Superski Dolomiti pass, which will grant you access to all 1220 kilometers of ski runs. This means that you can travel to any of the twelve resort areas and check out the slopes yourself. Check out the town of Ortisei, located within the valleys of the mountains. Ski in Alta Badia, where the Alpine Skiing World Cup often takes place. Wherever you chose to go, your access is granted with an all-inclusive pass. Adventure on the mountains until your heart is satisfied.
Towns near the mountains offer a combination of old-world charm and modern hospitality, with only the finest customer service. From the servers at the local restaurants to the greeter at the front of the hotel, the people of the Dolomite region are some of the friendliest you will ever encounter. They know that visitors don't come just for the great skiing. Visitors to the Dolomites are looking for fantastic dining and luxurious relaxation.
The resorts surrounding the mountains feature the finest accommodations, as well. Get a suite overlooking the valleys with a hot tub, then relax as you sip great Italian wine and enjoy the serenity of the natural landscape. When you wake up in the morning, get a massage to soothe your tired muscles and prepare for another day on the slopes of the Dolomites. Any way you see it, skiing in Italy is a winter vacationer's dream come true.
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