Livigno ski resort is situated in the heart of the Italian Tibet Valley in the central Alps, on the Swiss border. Livigno encompasses four villages and is well known for its duty-free status and abundant sunshine, not to mention the fantastic skiing and snowboarding on slopes of varying difficulty.

The resort town of Livigno has the distinction of being the highest permanently inhabited resort in Europe, while facilities are spread over a wide area. The modern hotels, facilities and residences of this popular resort blend well with buildings dating back to the 16th century, and among them are 250 duty-free shops.

There are nearly 5,000 beds in 100 hotels and apartments, with an additional 3,800 beds in nearby villages. Over 100 cafés and restaurants serving fast-food to the finest Italian cuisine, together with scores of bars and discos, ensure a vibrant and exciting après-ski and nightlife in Livigno. Non-skiing activities are also plentiful and include swimming and ice-skating.

Livigno ski resort has 110kms of slopes, the longest of which is seven kilometres. Slopes are mainly geared to beginners and intermediates, while advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders have 13kms of pistes. Thirty-three lifts, including three gondolas, 14 chairlifts and 16 surface lifts, have an hourly capacity for 46,460 people.

For alternative skiing, St Moritz is just over the border into Switzerland and is home to numerous world championship ski and bobsleigh meetings. Its appeal lies in its sunny climate, countryside, winter sports facilities and exclusivity. Nearby Bormio is also a good alternative, especially for experts. Chur (Switzerland) is an elegant 16th century town and offers a good day out away from the slopes.

The ski season at Livigno ski resort runs from November to May, with cheaper rates in mid-December and towards the season’s end. Flying to Milan and transferring by train to Tirano and then bus to Livigno is a popular travel option.