Macugnaga

Macugnaga Monte Rosa, situated at the foot of the eastern face of the spectacular Monte Rosa Mountains in Italy, is an ideal family vacation spot. Nestling in a natural snow bowl it is a picturesque ancient town full of charm with well managed ski areas and excellent facilities for beginners. Perhaps not as boisterous as other vacation ski resorts in the region, Macugnaga Monte Rosa is quiet and secluded, making it a perfect getaway. Just across the border from Saas-Fee in Switzerland, it has an interesting blend of characteristics from both countries.

Two and a half hours away from Milan International Airport, it can be accessed by Skibus transfer services. This peaceful vacation resort has a pleasant, friendly atmosphere, and although it does have a nightclub and several restaurants and bars, it is not of the caliber of other alpine resorts for après-ski. The focus off the slopes here is on other sports such as ice-skating, ice hockey, paragliding, mountaineering and hiking. A museum traces the resort’s history and is a good way to get youngsters interested in other aspects of winter sports.

The views in all directions are spectacular and the slopes are excellent for the beginner and intermediate skier. Macugnaga Monte Rosa has 15 slopes which add up to about 38 kilometers of skiing, and the longest run measures seven kilometers. Over 80 per cent of the runs are suitable for beginners and intermediates, and just around 20 per cent are for advanced skiers. There are two excellent ski schools in the resort where beginners can learn to ski with confidence.

Advanced skiers have some attractive off-piste options in the region. Experts can also take off heli-skiing from here and enjoy the vast mountain slopes above. There is a large off-piste area through woodlands which is suitable for snowboarders, plus an area dedicated to freestyle skiers and snowboarders alike. Twelve lifts, consisting of eight draglifts, two chairlifts and two cable cars service the area and can carry up to 7,800 skiers per hour.

Macugnaga Monte Rosa offers a range of accommodation from chalets to hotels to suit all choices. The ski season runs from December to April and sometimes extends to May.