Ski vacation in Tuscany?
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Yes, you can ski in Tuscany: The largest ski area is Abetone in the Apennines with around 50 kilometers of slopes, while in the south, Monte Amiata, an extinct volcano, offers a small ski area perfect for day trips. There are also several smaller ski resorts in the north. Here you'll find a comparison of the ski areas and tips for planning your trip. Ideas for thermal baths, cities, and winter activities can be found in the article " Winter Holidays in Tuscany ."
| Ski Area | Location | Slopes | Height | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abetone – Val di Luce | Apennines province Pistoia | Approximately 50 km, around 30 descents | approx. 1.200–1.940 m | Ski holidays, families, all levels |
| Mount Amiata | Southern Tuscany, provinces of Siena/Grosseto | about 10 km | to 1.738 m | Day trip, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing |
| Doganaccia, Casone di Profecchia, Zum Zeri | Apennines (Pistoia, Garfagnana, Lunigiana) | small | – | Beginner, day trip |
Abetone: the largest ski resort in Tuscany
The village of Abetone lies at an altitude of approximately 1.390 meters in the Apennines, on the border with Emilia-Romagna, and has been part of the municipality of Abetone Cutigliano since 2017. The ski area comprises around 50 kilometers of slopes with about 30 runs and extends up to Alpe Tre Potenze at 1.940 meters. It is divided into three areas:
- Tuscan side: Historic slopes such as Selletta and Chierroni (easy) and Riva (intermediate).
- Emilian side: the slopes named after the Olympic champion Zeno Colò, as well as Pulicchio and Stucchi.
- Val di Luce: Easy to moderately difficult descents such as Passo d'Annibale, Alpe Tre Potenze and Monte Gomito.
Abetone is popular with families from Florence, Pisa , and Lucca, so it's busier on weekends than during the week. Hotels and vacation rentals are available right in town: Accommodation in Abetone . Access from Pistoia or Lucca is via winding mountain roads – winter equipment is essential in winter.
Monte Amiata: Skiing on the volcano
Monte Amiata (1.738 m) lies approximately 55 km southeast of Siena and is the highest mountain in southern Tuscany. The small ski area, with around 10 kilometers of mostly intermediate slopes, is spread across the summit area (Vetta) and the high meadows of Macinaie and Contessa. Cross-country skiers will find trails in the beech forest. Whether the lifts are running depends heavily on the winter – the current snow report can be found at amiataneve.it . It's ideal as a day trip from Siena or Grosseto – followed by a visit to the hot springs of Bagni San Filippo or Bagno Vignoni. Accommodation on the mountain: hotels in Abbadia San Salvatore.
Small ski resorts in the north
Besides Abetone, there are several small ski resorts in the Apennines: Doganaccia above Cutigliano, Casone di Profecchia in the Garfagnana (starting point for tours to Monte Prado , the highest mountain in Tuscany), and Zeri in the Lunigiana. They are suitable for beginners and day trips.
Tips for a skiing holiday in Tuscany
- Snow reliability: The season usually runs from December to March, but is heavily dependent on the weather. Check the snow report and lift operating status before heading out.
- Winter equipment: Many mountain roads require winter tires or snow chains in winter – more information at Traffic rules in Italy.
- Helmet compulsory: In Italy, children and teenagers under 18 years of age must wear a helmet on the ski slopes.
- Combine: Skiing in the morning, thermal baths in the afternoon – the Tuscany thermal baths are also open in winter.
Find accommodation in Abetone
Frequently asked questions about skiing in Tuscany
Is it possible to go skiing in Tuscany?
Yes. The largest ski resort is Abetone in the Apennines (province of Pistoia) with around 50 km of slopes. In the south, there is a small ski resort on Monte Amiata with around 10 km of slopes.
What is the elevation of Abetone?
The village is located at around 1.390 m, the ski area extends to Alpe Tre Potenze at 1.940 m.
When is the ski season in Tuscany?
Generally from December to March, depending on snow conditions. On Monte Amiata, the season is short in winters with little snow.
Is Monte Amiata a good ski resort?
For a day trip, yes: there are around 10 km of mostly intermediate slopes and cross-country ski trails. For a full ski holiday, Abetone is better suited.
Do children in Italy need a ski helmet?
Yes, in Italy, all skiers under 18 years of age are required to wear helmets on the slopes.




