Most people might be surprised to note that there is indeed a way to ski right here in Tuscany! While it is far from famous spots such as the Dolomites or the Alps in Switzerland, the town of Abetone in Pistoia is famous for skiing and is right home here in our Toscana. Here you will find over 54 km of slopes with over 21 ski lifts, and plenty of mountainous terrain for hiking, cross-country skiing and many more winter-based activities. The slopes range from easy to difficult (with more of an emphasis on easier piste). It built in 1732, derived from a custom post on the main road from the Grand Duchy of Tuscany and the Duchy of Modena.Choose between four different valleys Valle dello Scoltenna, Val di Luce, Valle del Sestaione and Val di Lima and pick your slope. What is great about the Pistoia Appenines, is that they tend to be much more affordable than their more famous neighbors, and a little easier too. Also for those who want to sled or enjoy a snow park, head to the slope Fariola in Val di Luce or hike in the woods at Regine and Selletta. We also love the beautiful views from the summit of Monte Gomito. One tip is to avoid the weekends when it tends to get really crowded, so we recommend going during the week, if possible.
Currently the snowfall this year has been hit or miss, we follow the forecast here. Another fun fact is that t. Zeno Colò, one of the greatest Italian skiers, was born here! In fact there are plenty of important competitions that happen here, including the Women’s European Cup and that of the International Ski Federation.
Part of the fun of Abetone is dining, mountain style. Traditionally, locals eat fried polenta topped with ragu and various hearty dishes which contain mushrooms and game. Which is needed after an eventful day on the slopes.
Costs
For the 2015/2016 season, prices during the week are 30,00 euros per adult, 25 per kid. Make sure to check out the latest prices here.
Getting there
From Vicchio, it’s about a two hour drive, while from Florence it’s about 15 minutes less than that. Make sure you have chains for your tires as it is required during winter time in Italy. If you plan to take the train, the best bet is to go to Pistoia and then take bus 54Abe towards Brennero. Bring plenty of euro coins as change for parking.
Extra virgin olive oil is a natural product that continues to evolve after pressing. Heat, light and oxygen accelerate this process and gradually affect both flavour and quality. At Villa Campestri Olive Oil Resort, this is something we know well. Our family has been producing extra virgin olive oil for generations, using olives grown in […]
Mugello is best known for its charming villages, ancient woodlands, historic villas and quintessential Tuscan landscapes. What many people don’t realise is that, after sunset, its clear skies and low levels of light pollution create ideal conditions for observing constellations, planets and, at the right time of year, even the Milky Way stretching across the […]
Villa Campestri, the world’s first Olive Oil Resort, transforms extra virgin olive oil into an experience that brings together nature, gastronomy, wellbeing and a deep connection to the land.
Have you ever woken up in the morning feeling as tired as when you went to bed? Or found yourself exhausted at night, only to lie awake for hours? Perhaps you’ve experienced that familiar afternoon slump, when your energy suddenly disappears for no obvious reason. Most of us blame stress, a busy schedule or lack […]
One of the most meaningful experiences during a trip to Tuscany, beyond visiting art cities or iconic landscapes, is connecting with everyday local life. That connection often happens in village markets, artisan workshops, and small food shops where products are made for the people who live there year-round, not just for visitors. In this guide, […]
How to get to Mugello from Florence and how to travel around Tuscany with or without a car. Distances, trains, buses and transfers.
Romantic weekend in Tuscany between Mugello and Florence: scenic rooms, candlelight dinners, and olive oil tastings. Discover Villa Campestri Olive Oil Resort.
Anyone visiting Florence for the first time imagines a stay right in the historic center, surrounded by museums, piazzas, and narrow cobblestone streets. It takes only a day, however, to realize that Florence is wonderful to explore yet challenging to inhabit. Between ZTL restrictions, scarce and expensive parking, constant noise, and high prices for even […]