Why Madonna di Campiglio?
As you descend towards Madonna you can either ski anti-clockwise round the mountains above the village or ski down and across the bridge and ski the area in a clockwise direction. From the bridge you can take the Groste Express cable car to the top within 22 minutes to broad slopes with breathtaking views.
If time has been taken into consideration, it is possible to enjoy some of the runs several times en route, but make sure you leave enough time for the fabulous area of “Cinque Laghi”, at the far end of Campiglio, which apart from offering cruising blue and red runs also boasts a very steep new black slope which not for the faint-hearted!
Why Marilleva?
If you are looking for beginners/ intermediate ski-ing with plenty of variety, Marilleva is an ideal choice. The ski bus takes you directly to the main uplift to the slopes of Marilleva, a custom-built resort. This is also a favourite with locals learning to ski. Apart from the ski school and beginners’ slopes at the top of the access gondola, there is a wide variety of slopes so that you can quickly get away from the buzz. From the top of the Orso Bruno [small word of warning: at certain times of the day, the uplift to Orso Bruno can be congested] the scenery is magnificent. Again, this is ideal for skiers at different levels wanting to split up to enjoy the variety of slopes and meet up later during the day. For experienced skiers there are 4 black runs. A word of caution: you must be back by 16.45 to avoid missing the last lift down to the valley.
Why Folgarida?
Folgarida can be accessed by ski-ing from the top of Orso Bruno (above Marilleva). There is a very large area in the basin at the top of Folgarida with wide, nursery slopes ideal for beginners. From this area there are long, cruising, tree-lined slopes down towards Folgarida itself and Belvidere, with quick gondola access back up the mountain. Again, another area ideal for meeting up for diverse groups. Folgarida is also home to the superb “Pista Nera” (black piste) which is usually well-groomed and quiet.
Why Pinzolo?
For an even longer safari ski, take the 25 minute ride in the Pinzolo-Campiglio express from the Cinque Laghi area of Madonna di Campiglio. Pinzolo has extensive, enjoyable, intermediate and often very broad slopes surrounded by breathtaking scenery. From the top of Pinzolo you have a clear view of Lake Garda, assuming the weather permits. If you arrive early enough there should be enough time to ski most of the runs. It is probably advisable to leave Pinzolo around 2.15 pm to ensure access back to Orso Bruno where the descent to the gondola and thereafter the “ski bus” stop at Marilleva 900 begins.
