Monte Bondone is near the town of Trento in the province of Trentino, and is surrounded by the Brenta Dolomites, the Adige Valley and the Austrian Alps. One of the oldest ski areas in the country, Bondone is aimed at the intermediate level snowboarder and skier and features 20kms of pistes and some commendable cross-country trails.

Many people choose to stay in Trento due to its excellent services and facilities, but those who like to be nearer the action can stay in the villages of Vaneze, Vason or Sardagna. There are plenty of shops and banks here as well as about 1,300 beds in apartments, hotels and private residences.

Nineteen pistes run over 20kms of snowboard and ski terrain that is divided into 30 per cent for beginners, 65 per cent for intermediates and five per for cent for those at an advanced level. The exciting four-kilometre Gran Pista downhill run meanders through wooded areas and drops 800m, while nearby cross-country trails wind along the picturesque Viote Valley.

Monte Bondone ski resort also has a top-rate snow park for snowboarders, and other winter activities and facilities include ice-skating, mono-skiing and paragliding. Several excellent cafés and restaurants provide refreshments and fine dining, and the nightlife is varied with regular folklore evenings and concerts, as well as a complement of bars and discos.

The ski season at Monte Bondone ski resort runs from December to April, and the best snow conditions are in February. To get to Monte Bondone and away, your best option is to fly to Verona and take a train to Trento. There is a regular return bus service from there to the resort. For those who are pushed for time or would like added convenience, car hire is available at the airport.