Andalo

Skiing, history and fun in the Brenta Dolomites

If you love the mountains in all their forms, Andalo is the perfect place for you. At an altitude of about 1,000 metres, between the Brenta Dolomites and Cima Paganella, this resort in the province of Trento is part of the Skirama Dolomiti Adamello Brenta: a single ski pass gives you access to 235 miles of slopes, including a 2-mile route that is illuminated at night, so you can ski under the stars. If you’re a beginner or skiing is not your thing, you can still have fun riding on bobsleighs and sledges at the Winter Park or the Baby Park, just for little ones.

There’s no shortage of opportunities for cross-country skiers either, who can explore several miles of trails around a small natural lake. Take off your skis, put on your snowshoes and venture into the fir forests of the Adamello Brenta Nature Park, climbing to an altitude of 1,500 metres.

But Andalo will also amaze those who prefer culture, food and wine to snow sports. A few miles from the village stands Castel Belfort, a fortress dating back to the 14th century. On the Prati di Gaggia plateau, you can discover Biblioigloo, the first high-altitude library. And don’t miss a visit to San Lorenzo in Banale, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Born from the merger of seven ancient fiefdoms, today it is a maze of narrow streets and rural buildings. You simply have to try the local dish: ciuìga, a sausage made from pork and turnips and a Slow Food presidium.