Having fun in the snow in Ticino with Pamela Pintus
If you like snow, mountains, large spaces, and winter sports as I do, then you should know that Ticino is one of the most exciting places that offer the opportunity to enjoy some free days, not only in nature but also having fun.
This region of Switzerland allows you to choose breathtaking adventures or to let yourself pampering in one of the various wellness centers or to spend shopping days in trendy shops.
Where to ski in Ticino
The Ticino’s’ territory is astonishing as even in winter, it has not very low temperatures and allows you to enjoy sunny days. Thanks to the lakes that mitigate the climate, making towns and cities along their shores pleasantly. However, it is enough to move to the peaks to find soft blanket snow for skying or sledging across the enchanting and surreal landscapes. There are many sites in Ticino with modern and efficient ski facilities. I have personally visited some of them, and I am happy to share my experience with you.
Dalpe, Leventina Valley
Dalpe, for example, I found it very suitable for families with children, who may still have to learn to ski. The place is located about 1200 m above sea level, and the facility is small but perfect for those approaching skiing for the first time. For the little ones, there is a moving walkway in addition to the carousel and a pony lift. Dalpe is well connected by motorway with the most relevant cities in Ticino. For example, from Lucerne, you can reach Dalpe in about one hour, if you exit at Quinto from the highway.
www.bedrinadalpe.ch
Bosco Gurin, Maggia Valley
Bosco Gurin has impressed me in a particular way, not only for its slopes but for the beautiful landscape. It is the highest located municipality in the Canton and towering the entire Vallemaggia. The village is very picturesque and boasts a long tourist tradition. It is one of the favorite destinations for those who spend their holidays in Ticino. Moreover, even the ski facilities are lovely if you love winter sports: you can choose from 30 ski runs, a toboggan run, various snowshoe trails, a snow park, facilities for children and a ski school for beginners. Not only that, because some different hotels and clubs organize themed events and evenings to entertain and amuse tourists at any time of the day. The latest novelty to try is a 1 km long two-seater sledge, for incredible fun in both winter and summer.
www.bosco-gurin.ch
Cioss Prato, Bedretto Valley
Further north, at the foot of the Gotthard Pass, there is another small and charming ski resort: Closs Prato. Also, in this case, it is a perfect place for families and, above all, for children. Here, your children can learn to ski, surrounded by a still unspoiled and wild natural environment. Or you can organize fun walks with snowshoes, using a path of about 4 km. There is a pony lift, one ski lift, a refreshment area with warm dishes and the possibility to rent skis and snowshoes.
www.ticino.ch
Airolo-Pescium, Leventina Valley
Not far from Closs Prato, I also found the Airolo-Pescium station very beautiful which, among other things, is very easy to reach both by car and by train. You can reach via the motorway, exiting right at Airolo and leaving your car in one of the free parking lots or by train, taking the shuttle buses that take you directly from the station to the lifts. From Airolo you can get to Pescium by a modern ski lift, and from here you can choose between various slopes of different difficulty, different dining options and a panoramic terrace. Is one of the most popular resorts as it is ideal for experienced skiers, but also if you are learning this sport and, perhaps, you want to spend a few hours on the snow with your children, without too much effort. The slopes range from 1175 m to 2250 m, so here you can enjoy breathtaking views.
www.airolo.ch
Campo Blenio-Ghirone, Blenio Valley
Other exciting areas to know are those of Campo Blenio-Ghirone, always covered with snow thanks to the presence of artificial snowmaking systems, and Cappellina in Vallemaggia, both suitable for families.
Carì, Leventinatal
Le escursioni in Ticino: divertirsi in inverno
However, Ticino is not only ideal for skiing. There are many amusements, and you can experience unforgettable experiences in nature. If you are passionate about hiking, there are a series of trails that will lead you into the heart of the mountains, through woods and wild landscapes, and perhaps arriving in a refuge where you can enjoy a strictly Swiss hot chocolate! Do not forget to take your camera with you to share the shots on your favorite social networks.
In this regard, I would like to recommend three paths that I particularly appreciate. The first is quite simple, takes place on a mostly flat path and will lead you to the Verzasca Valley, crossing the two-arch bridge located in Lavertezzo. In about 3 hours you can cover a route of almost 7 kilometers, along the Verzasca river and admiring a peaceful and spectacular landscape.
Airolo, Leventinatal
Another itinerary is that of Campra, shorter than the previous one, but just as easy. In this case, the route is circular and about 5 km long. It is located in the Blenio Valley and crosses fir and alder woods, along the Brenno river at times. You will love it if you like to walk in a quiet and relaxed way among nature, enjoying one of the most varied and characteristic ecosystems of Ticino.
In Airolo-Pescium, as well as the ski facilities I have described to you, you will also find paths immersed in the snow at about 1800 m and well away from the slopes used by skiers. A pleasant and relaxing way to enjoy this mountain landscape without too much effort, perhaps after spending a few hours on the ski slopes. The route is simple, has no differences in height and develops in circularly for about 5 km.
I hope that my suggestions are useful and let you appreciate the Ticino and all its beauties.
Pamela Pintus
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