Livigno

Lying close to the Swiss border, Livigno is known for its excellent snow record, long winter season and duty free status. With a modern lift network, village charm, a wealth of winter entertainment and fantastic shopping, this lively resort has a lot to offer.

The 115km of pistes are split across two sides of the valley, efficiently linked by the free resort bus network. The Mottolino side boasts a first class snowpark, voted the best in Italy alongside some challenging descents. The Carosello 3000 side offers the bulk of the runs with many wide and confidence boosting pistes. The mountain itself is modern and varied, with an efficient lift system and great terrain for beginner and intermediate skiers in particular.The Alta Valtellina lift pass covers Bormio (about an hour's bus ride – free with the lift pass) and Santa Caterina (another 20 minutes). The Livigno pass gets you half-price on one day in St Moritz – an excursion not easily done from any other major resort.

The bustling traffic-free centre offers good value stores and designer boutiques alongside a variety of vibrant cafes and bars providing good apres ski options.