Known for its sunshine, snow-sure slopes and lively après-ski scene, Livigno is a beloved resort situated in the Italian Alps. Located at an altitude of 1,816m, the area is renowned for its typically reliable snowfall and extensive ski terrain. Livigno is part of the Alta Valtellina ski area, offering 115km of pisted terrain, and is known for its top-notch snowparks and extensive off-piste skiing opportunities. With a wide variety of ski runs suitable for all levels, Livigno is a haven for ski enthusiasts. Read on to discover our comprehensive guide to skiing in Livigno.
Livigno Ski Area
Livigno’s ski area consists of two main sections, Costaccia-Carosello 3000 on one side of the valley and Mottolino on the other, both easily accessible from the town. The terrain is divided into 78 runs, with 30% categorised as easy, 60% intermediate and 10% expert.
Beginner Skiing in Livigno
Livigno is an ideal location for beginners, offering an array of gentle slopes and easy runs. The resort boasts excellent snow quality, providing the perfect conditions for those starting their skiing journey. There are dedicated beginner areas at both the bottom and top of the mountain, with Azzurra and Amerikan being the most popular. Once you’ve gained confidence and skill on these nursery slopes, try progressing to the longer blue runs, such as the San Rocco and Tagliede.
Intermediate Skiing in Livigno
With a majority of its runs categorised as intermediate, Livigno presents an array of challenges for skiers looking to improve their skills. The Costaccia-Carosello 3000 area is a must-visit for intermediate skiers, offering a mix of blue and red runs. For an iconic skiing experience, take the San Rocco gondola up and ski down the Giorgio Rocca Slalom, named after the famous Italian skier. Remember, like many Italian resorts, Livigno’s grading system can be slightly more demanding than others, so don’t be disheartened if you find the blue runs a bit challenging.
Advanced Skiing in Livigno
Livigno caters well to advanced skiers with a range of challenging terrain. The Mottolino side of the valley is a paradise for advanced skiers, with a variety of black runs including the steep Monte Neve and Camanel. For an adrenaline rush, try tackling the Vetta Blesaccia, a challenging black run with a steep 70% gradient and offering panoramic views of the Stelvio National Park.
Off-piste Skiing in Livigno
Livigno is a haven for off-piste skiing, offering a plethora of unmarked and unpatrolled terrain. One popular off-piste route is the Federia Valley, a secluded area known for its deep powder and impressive alpine scenery. Another must-try is the off-piste route from Mottolino to Trepalle, offering an exhilarating 1,000m descent. Remember, off-piste skiing holds inherent risks, so we highly recommend hiring a local guide who knows the terrain and can ensure your safety.
Snowparks in Livigno
Livigno is famous for its snowparks, offering a variety of jumps, rails and boxes for all levels. The Mottolino Fun Mountain is a world-renowned snowpark, frequently hosting international freestyle skiing and snowboarding events. For beginners, the American Snowpark on the Carosello side of the valley offers an array of easier features.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced skier, Livigno offers a diverse range of terrain, excellent snow conditions and a vibrant après-ski scene. To enhance your skiing experience, consider hiring an instructor who can guide you to the best runs and help improve your skills.
