Escape to Italy's South Tyrol

Escape to the Dolomites, Italy

It has unrivaled conditions for snow sports and epic mountain scenery, but it's the unique Alpine-Mediterranean cultural fusion that sets this region apart.

South Tyrol, Italy's most northerly region is set amid the jaw droppingly beautiful mountains of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites. It boasts one of the best ski and snow runs of the World. Add to this 300 days of sunshine a year and a snow guarantee from December to April and it really is the place to be for discerning snow enthusiasts.

But it is not just the snow and landscape that makes visiting worthwhile. An eclectic, unique destination, South Tyrol's Alpine and Mediterranean cultural heritages combine in everything from the regions food and wine to its spa tradition. South Tyrol is a secret ski spot waiting to be discovered and the perfect place to avoid crowded slopes.

Home to the famous Dolomiti Superski and Sellaronda, the region offers excellent downhill and cross-country options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels and there are 63 ski schools on hand. After a day on piste, visitors can enjoy and après ski in a cosy log hut or tuck into the gourmet food for which the regions is so rightly famous- it boasts an incredible 20 restaurants with Michelin Star rating. South Tyrol also has a strong Spa tradition, with many spas and thermal baths offering traditional treatments such as milk, honey and hay baths- a great way to relax your muscles at the end of the day.

The Dolomiti Superski is the world's largest ski network with 1200km of snow covered slopes, taking in 12 different resorts. Each area has direct access to its impressive network that is covered with just one ski pass, making it an adventurous and affordable ski holiday option. The size of the network means that there is a huge range of skiing available, from beginners and kids runs to the expert level slopes, as well as great cross-country and off –piste skiing terrain.

South Tyrol also offers access to Sellaronda, a 26km merry-go-round for skiers around dramatic Sella Massif Peak with well groomed pistes and modern, efficient lift systems. The Sellaronda is one of the most exciting routes in the Alps and links four valleys in the Dolomites: the valleys Gardena, Fassa, Livinallingo and Badia. In around 5 hours skiers can complete the circular tour around the impressive rock formations of the Dolomites and are rewarded with some of the world's most spectacular scenery. It's a must-do for any keen skier or snowboarder.

Beyond skiing, South Tyrol is a fantastic destination for all things snow related. Adrenalin junkies can go ice climbing up frozen waterfalls or why not enjoy the landscape on a pony ride or horse drawn sled? In this real- life winter wonderland, the possibilities are endless.

We have an outstanding variety of luxury and bargain sale properties in the Dolomites area and our staff is on hand to assist with finding you the appropriate residence in this scenic part of Italy. For more details and detailed guidance about properties in the Dolomites, please refer to our website www.ecsmproperty.uk.com or drop us a note on ec@ecsmproperty.uk.com