It is easy to understand why Italy is one of the world’s most celebrated tourist destinations. This is a country that truly does have it all: exquisite landscapes, an abundance of art and architectural treasures, world renowned museums and a national obsession with decadent food and fine wine. Not to mention the country’s sun-kissed olive groves, glacial lakes, fiery volcanoes and snow capped peaks. Dive the clear green waters of the Mediterranean, browse the market stalls in Naples or experience the diverse wildlife inhabiting the country’s national parks. And if you find the vast range of choices overwhelming, take some advice from the locals: sit back, relax and take a moment to indulge in the “bella vita” (the good life). As they say: when in Rome!
The Via Lattea or Milky Way Ski Area is a beautiful region stretching across the Alps at the French-Italian border, home to six excellent ski resort towns. Claviere is a family-friendly destination which offers night skiing and a collection of lively bars. Montegenvre, a snowboarders paradise, is the only Milky Way resort in France (it is also one of the smallest and cheapest in the country). Those looking for something picturesque and walkable should head to the serene, cobbled, car-free centre of Sansicario, surrounded by rolling wooded hills and boasting some challenging black runs. Night owls will delight in the pumping nightlife at Sauze d'Oulx. Experts should take full advantage of the steep, north-facing, high-altitude slopes at Sestriere. Cesana is a pretty and quiet location home to the famous Cesana Pariol.
