Val di Sole

Nestled in Trentino, Italy, Val di Sole is an Alpine valley featuring the Brenta Dolomites and the Ortles-Cevedale massif. This expansive valley provides access to three distinct ski areas: Folgarida-Marilleva, Pejo, and the glacier slopes of Passo Tonale. This variety caters to all abilities, from novices to advanced skiers seeking challenging terrain and spring snow.

Unlike more frequented Dolomite resorts, Val di Sole offers an authentic Italian experience with a relaxed pace, charming villages, and exceptional food. The Folgarida-Marilleva area is centrally located, connecting directly with Madonna di Campiglio to form 150km of linked pistes between 850m and 2,500m. The ski season generally runs from early December to mid-April, with Passo Tonale, located at the valley's western end, extending into late April due to the Presena Glacier at 3,000m. The Skirama Dolomiti pass grants access to a wider network of 270km across western Trentino.

Val di Sole offers an impressive array of skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Across its three ski areas, there is ample diverse terrain to explore throughout your visit, ranging from gentle tree-lined runs in Folgarida to vast, open glacier bowls above Passo Tonale. The connection to Madonna di Campiglio via the Folgarida-Marilleva sector creates a substantial linked area, allowing for varied skiing each day.

Each area possesses a unique character. Folgarida-Marilleva serves as a social hub, offering a good selection of cruising runs and direct lift access to Campiglio. Pejo is a well-kept secret, small and tranquil, boasting an authentic, uncrowded atmosphere. Passo Tonale ensures high-altitude skiing and reliable snow, with glacier skiing above 3,000m extending the season into late spring. Collectively, these areas provide a depth of experience that encourages return visits.

Val di Sole is a welcoming destination for beginners. Both Folgarida and Marilleva feature dedicated nursery areas conveniently located near the villages, offering gentle slopes and moving carpets to help build confidence. Once ready, skiers can progress to wide, well-groomed blue runs winding through the trees, which are manageable and enjoyable.

Passo Tonale is another excellent choice for beginners, with expansive, open slopes at altitude where snow conditions remain consistent and forgiving. The runs at the base area are particularly suitable for developing technique, and the wide pistes provide ample space to practise turns away from busier areas. For intermediates, the linked Folgarida-Marilleva-Campiglio area is ideal for advancing skills on longer runs, with well-maintained red pistes through forests and open bowls. More confident intermediates can tackle steeper red runs and the more challenging blue runs above Passo Tonale. Advanced skiers should head to the steeper terrain above Passo Tonale and the black runs on the Madonna di Campiglio side. The Presena Glacier descent, a long, sustained run from 3,000m, offers genuine challenge, while black runs off the Grostè sector in Campiglio are notably steep and often retain good snow.

Off-piste opportunities are available across the valley, particularly around Pejo and in the high bowls above Tonale. After fresh snow, the areas adjacent to groomed runs transform into powder fields and natural gullies. Engaging a local guide is highly recommended for safe access to the best lines.