Livigno

Livigno, nicknamed “Little Tibet” for its high-altitude plateau and remote setting, is one of Italy’s most snow-sure and distinctive ski resorts. Sitting at 1,816 m in Lombardy’s Valtellina Valley, it stretches along a long, wide valley close to the Swiss border. Its altitude and extensive snowmaking guarantee skiing from late November to early May.

With 115 km of pistes, two main ski areas (Carosello 3000 and Mottolino), and access to the Alta Valtellina skipass (which also covers Bormio and Santa Caterina), Livigno is best known for cruising runs, world-class terrain parks, and excellent value thanks to its duty-free status.

The village is lively and youthful, popular with groups, snowboarders, and families seeking reliable snow and après-ski without the high costs of many Alpine resorts.

Skiing & Snowboarding

The Livigno ski area is divided into two main sectors:

• Carosello 3000: Sunny slopes with long, gentle runs perfect for beginners and intermediates.

• Mottolino: Steeper terrain and home to Livigno’s world-renowned snowpark.

• Beginners: Wide nursery slopes at village level and gentle progression areas on Carosello make this one of Italy’s best resorts for learners.

• Intermediates: The majority of runs are cruisy reds and blues — ideal for skiers and snowboarders who love mileage and wide pistes.

• Experts: On-piste steeps are limited, but Mottolino offers some challenging blacks. Off-piste opportunities with a guide include powder bowls and backcountry tours.

• Freestylers: The Mottolino Snowpark is one of Europe’s best, regularly hosting international freestyle events. It offers multiple lines from beginner to pro, plus a superpipe.

With skiing up to 2,798 m, reliable snow is a major draw, backed by snowmaking across nearly all pistes.

Ski Lift Passes

Livigno is included in the Alta Valtellina Skipass (Livigno, Bormio, Santa Caterina, and Oga–San Colombano).

• Adult: ~€61/day | ~€305 for 6 days
• Child (8–15): ~50% reduction
• Under 8s: Free

Deals:

• Family discounts.
• Reduced beginner passes for nursery lifts.

Resort & Infrastructure

Livigno’s infrastructure is modern and efficient:

• 32 lifts, including gondolas and high-speed chairs, link both sides of the valley.
• Free ski buses run along the 14 km-long resort, making access easy from all accommodation.
• Snowmaking covers nearly 100% of slopes, ensuring reliability.

Its layout means accommodation and lifts are spread out, but free transport makes getting around simple.

Accommodation

Livigno offers a wide range of options, from simple apartments to luxury spa hotels.

• Budget: Self-catering apartments and B&Bs throughout the valley.
• Mid-Range: 3★–4★ family-run hotels such as Hotel Amerikan and Hotel Spol.
• Luxury: Stylish spa properties including Hotel Lac Salin Spa & Mountain Resort, Hotel Sonne, and Hotel Montivas Lodge.

Browse via the Livigno accommodation search.

Dining & Après

On the mountain, rifugi like Costaccia and Camanel di Planon are famous for hearty Valtellina dishes such as pizzoccheri (buckwheat pasta) and polenta.

Après-ski is lively, youthful, and affordable. Bars like Miky’s Pub, Stalet, and Tagliede Après-Ski are buzzing from mid-afternoon, while nightclubs such as Koshi and Club Cielo keep the party going. The vibe is more informal than chic — fun, friendly, and energetic.

Non-Skiing Activities

Livigno is packed with off-slope options:

• Duty-free shopping (electronics, fashion, perfume, and alcohol are all tax-free).
• Cross-country skiing on over 30 km of trails.
• Snowshoeing and winter hiking.
• Fat biking on groomed trails.
• Wellness at Aquagranda Active You, one of Europe’s largest wellness centres.

Village Character & Access

Livigno is a long, high-altitude village with traditional wooden chalets and a youthful, bustling atmosphere. While it lacks the medieval charm of Bormio or Courmayeur, its lively vibe, tax-free shopping, and après-ski scene make it unique.

How to get there from the UK:

• By air: Milan Bergamo (3 hrs), Milan Malpensa (4 hrs), or Zurich Airport (4 hrs).
• By train: Rail to Tirano, then 2 hrs by bus.
• By car: Around 12 hrs from Calais.

InTheSnow Verdict

Livigno is one of Italy’s most snow-sure and affordable resorts, with a winning mix of wide pistes, world-class terrain parks, and duty-free shopping. Its youthful atmosphere and lively après-ski make it perfect for groups, snowboarders, and families looking for fun and value.

For snow reliability, freestyle, and tax-free shopping, Livigno stands out as one of Italy’s most unique resorts.