A SNOW DAY IN TUSCANY

AMIATA – A WINTER WONDERLAND

Snow may not be the first thing that springs to mind when one mentions Tuscany however, it is home to a large volcanic mountain called Monte Amiata and with an elevation 1.738 m in the wintertime it is covered with a blanket of snow. The summit can easily be reached by car or local bus in under an hour from most of Tuscan tourist hotspots. The ski slopes are easily accessible on foot and you are able to park quite close to the summit where you will find great value ski hire, restaurants and hotels.

The Amiata Resort is nestled amongst the largest beech tree forest in Europe, and has an authentic Italian rustic feel with wooden chalets and cabins dotted throughout the resort area. It is located south of Siena and approximately an hour and 15 minutes from Citta della Pieve. The resort offers 10 km of alpine ski slopes, plus 8 lifts that can be used as part of SKI PASS AMIATA as well as 10.5 km of Nordic ski slopes. The average cost of a ski pass is between 3 euro’s and 20 euro’s a day depending on how many runs you would like to use. You will also be able to enjoy activities like cross-country skiing, snowboarding, sledding and snowshoe trails. My first visit to the mountain was just after a huge blizzard that provided lots of deep fresh snow for us to enjoy. We started our day with a walk up to the summit followed by a little sledding while my friends hit the ski slopes. The fresh layer of snow had everyone out creating a lively, fun and energized atmosphere.

FOR THE SKIERS

The most popular downhill run is Marsiliana-Macinaie. Which winds its way through the lovely Pian della Marsiliana beech tree, near Cantore. The first two kilometres are mainly on the flat with gentle slopes, great for beginners as well as more expert skiers. They are used for classic and free skiing. Connected to this loop there is another slope that leads to near Prato delle Macinaie. The Macinaie loop is a series of short yet steep slopes with very fast downhill parts, hence why it’s recommended for advanced skiers.

FOR THE WALKERS

Walkers will find some lovely trails that can be taken with or without snowshoes including one that leads up to the summit where you’ll find the magnificent metal cross along with a breathtaking panorama of the Val d’Orcia . The cross was commissioned by Pope Leo XIII in the 1900’s for the people of Amiata and was destroyed during WWII but rebuilt in 1946. In addition you can partake in Snowshoe excursions which are available during the day or at night. You will need to sign up for these walks and the routes vary according to the number of guests and their level of experience. Each excursion varies from an hour and a half to three hours. Or you can simply enjoy your own walk through the beech tree forest.

It is also worth noting most of the parks are dog friendly.

FOR THE ADVENTURERS

For those of you who like a bit of heart stopping adventure head over to Snow Park Macinaie. Which offers a 4-metre jump, a 6-metre rail box, a 3×3-metre kink box, a jersey, a pole jam and a 1.5-metre jump, a 6-metre double tube hand rail for all snowboard lovers, plus tubing and sledding for the kids or the young at heart. This area is set away from the skiers on the slopes allowing you to play in total safety.

For an overview of the all courses you can refer to the ski pass map (see below), which contains information and details about the slopes. For the opening hours of facilities and a full rundown of Monte Amiata’s skiing facilities, click here www.amiataneve.it.

FOR THE HUNGRY AND TIRED

After an energetic day out on the slopes you may be hungry for a delicious meal and libation. The Chalet Rifugio Vetta Ristorante offers yummy regional cuisine and is best know for its homemade pasta with Porcini and truffle and grilled (Chianina) steak both of which my group enjoyed and were absolutely delicious. They also have a snack and coffee bar for those looking for a more casual dining experience. There are several other eateries within walking distance of the ski lifts as well as a selection of family run hotels which are casual and rustic offering simple and cozy accommodation.

FOR ANOTHER FUN THING TO DO

After a full day out on the slopes why not treat your tired muscles to a restorative mineral-spa experience by visiting Fonteverde with a great collection of large panoramic pools, hot tubs and treatment facilities. Just a short drive from the summit in the town of San Casciano Dei Bagni. Afterwards, head into the Centro Storico for an Aperetivo at Bar Centrale or delicious meal at Ristorante Daniela both of which offer alfresco tables and spectacular views over the surrounding landscape. Also just outside town is an Agriturismo called Il Poggio that has a delightful restaurant. I would suggest checking their opening hours in advance of your visit to avoid being disappointed.

Whether you’re looking for a fun day out or couple of days hitting the slopes, Monte Amiata is definitely worth a visit. You won’t find the black runs of the Dolomites or the luxury of Aspen but what you will find is an unpretentious, beautiful and a bonafide old-school Italian experience.

Lastly please remember to check the weather conditions and make sure your vehicle is equipped with snow tyres or chains as the top of the mountain has its own micro climate. Grab your hat and coat and go enjoy a snow day in Tuscany.

Buon viaggio a tutti.

Some of the information for this article was sourced from VisitTuscany.com