It’s a pity that people tend to think of Stresa only as a summer destination. Very few realize that it sits at the base of a full-fledged ski resort, but that it does, with fantastic, affordable, hassle-free skiing available right from the center of town, without the need of a car.

Mt. Mottarone is no beginner’s hill. Listen to these statistics: Seven ski lifts and 21 piste, ski runs, offering a total skiing area of 21 km. Snow-making capabilities on 25% of the trails. Off-piste areas. Snowboarders welcome. And then there’s the view… As any skier will tell you, one of the most enticing parts about skiing is the sheer splendor of winter landscapes and in this regard Mottarone delivers. At the summit you’re surrounded by seven lakes, so spend a moment and take in the 360° view. Choose your path down. The Alpe Corti piste is especially scenic; the 2.5 km trail begins at the very summit and winds its way down varying terrain, offering resting spots with incredible panoramas of the lakes below.

Mottarone has a full range of services for skiers. Rentals of all equipment, lessons, several restaurants and bars. The snow is great. While down below Stresa doesn’t receive too much snow, protected as it is by the lake and mountains, 5000 feet higher Mottarone can be covered in white by November. As I write this and check the ski report the mountain has a 48” base, fresh powder cover, and is 100% open. As I write this and check the ski report I think to myself voglio sciare… I want to ski.