Family friendly fun - Madesimo
Madesimo is a delightful and compact high altitude alpine village close to the Swiss border that offers something for all the family. And importantly the ski resort incorporates that vital element for family groups - convenience.
It's handy for all the major Lombardy airports - and once ensconced within your family-friendly hotel - handy for the slopes too. Step outside the door and you're straight on to state-of-the-art¸ speedy transport systems to take you exactly where you want to be within the 60km expanse of the Skiarea Valchiavenna. No queues, no shuttles, no worries. And at 1550m - no shortage of snow!
Madesimo has been entertaining winter visitors now for a century and in more recent times families have become a permanent feature throughout a season which stretches from November through to April.
So what's the particular attraction to the Skiarea Valchiavenna for families? Maybe it's the professionalism - of the ski-schools for all ages and capabilities - both group/individual; or the baby-park complete with baby-sitting services for the little ones -sledging fun alongside a safe introduction to the junior slopes; and clearly the wide range of facilities must play their part: on-piste cafe/bars for snacks or family lunch; fun-park, and of course a full range of superbly maintained slopes to satisfy all tastes and expertise. Plus the central ice-skating rink for a change of tempo.
Perhaps the proximity and ease of access: for example should you and your family decide to stay at the charismatic and typically Alpine Campodolcino just down the road, then the ultra-modern funicular railway - Sky Express - will sweep you up to the Motta slopes at 1750m. in less than 5 mins.
Could it be the range of family friendly offers on ski-hire and passes? With experience comes expertise - on and off the piste - and Madesimo and Campodolcino have both. Believe us - they have been fine-tuning their winter wonderland for decades.
Hence there's also plenty going on outside the winter sports scene. Madesimo boasts a range of quality boutiques, sports outlets and bars to suit everyone - hot chocolate and pastries all round in a family-orientated cafe or an aperitif-style bar adventure in excellent company. Maybe a relaxing meal in one of the many restaurants offering both local and traditional cuisine to suit even the most demanding of 4 - 9 year-old palates!
But we're convinced the ambience must play a big part. Valle Spluga has always been renowned for the warmth of its welcome and the generosity of its hospitality. To young and old alike.
Should anyone fancy a break from their exertions then historic Chiavenna provides a welcome break - a short bus-ride away. Charm itself with its splendid piazza, ancient walls, children's playgrounds, indoor pools and - yes - shopping opportunities by the bag-full!
Family Ski Deals start from as little £399 per person for 7 nights half-board and include a 6 day ski pass with discounts for children up to 16 years old.
For more information, visit bellaskiitalia.com.
