Skiing in Sardinia

Sardinia has always maintained the ability to surprise. Yet it still remains pretty much a secret that this island, known for its blue waters, white beaches and tropical sunshine, also gets snow during winter. Deep in the island’s mountainous interior, amongst the chestnut and oak trees, there are snowy slopes and ski runs. It’s a stark contrast to the beach holidays that dominate the summer months.

The skiing area is around the mountains of Gennargentu, the highest part of Sardinia, whose name means ‘silver mountains’. This is where you find the island’s tallest mountain, Marmora (2000m) where snow falls every winter. This is an area rich in canyons, gorges and natural springs, the island’s main source of water. Skiers head for Fonni, the highest town on the island. This is where you find the island’s only ski resort, close to the peak of Bruncu Spina (1829m), the island’s second highest mountain.

There are three pistes to choose from, depending on ability, reached by a ski lift that takes you up to 1800m. There is also a cable car that takes you to a ski school. For beginners and children there is another ski area on the slopes of Mount Spada that allows you to try your hand on more gentle slopes.

After a hard day on the ‘piste’, it is time to try some local cuisine at one of the restaurants around Fonni. Try one of the local meat dishes to sample traditional Sardinian cooking. Leave room for Fonni’s famous handmade pastries called ‘is pistoccus’, delicious with a cup of coffee. And if you fancy a change from skiing, then there are plenty of hiking trails and other winter sports to try in the area.

So next time you think of Sardinia, don’t just think of the white sands and tropical beaches. Think of the snow falling on the wild and rugged mountainous landscape and a ski resort that offers something just a little different.