🔗 Share this article

Italian consumer advocates are sounding the alarm over what they describe as entirely unreasonable price increases for lift tickets this winter season, warning that alpine sports could become a luxury reserved for affluent individuals.

Substantial Price Increases Throughout the Country

Across the Alpine regions and breathtaking Dolomites in the northern territories to the ski runs of central Italy, prices are poised to increase by up to 40% compared to 2021 levels, according to fresh research.

The prestigious Dolomiti Superski pass, which grants access to all 12 resorts in the exclusive Dolomites, will now cost skiers €86 per day during the current winter. In Roccaraso, a single-day lift ticket is expected to reach €60, following significant overcrowding during the previous winter.

Annual Ticket Prices and Supplementary Charges

At the same time, annual skiing tickets will range from €755 per adult in the Abruzzo region to upwards of €1,800 in the Aosta valley.

The cost of renting winter sports gear has also increased, along with lodging costs and dining expenses throughout mountain resorts.

Consumer Group President Cites Unjustified Increases

The consumer association president, heading the watchdog organization, stated that the price increases—attributed by resorts to higher energy costs, facility upkeep, and demand for better equipment—were completely unjustified and unacceptable.

"Both because Italian inflation rates are managed effectively and energy tariffs, which had raised operational costs for ski resort operators in 2022, have stabilized at previous levels," Melluso noted.

He added that prices have now reached levels where budget-conscious visitors are being compelled to skip their traditional settimana bianca, or winter vacation, altogether.

Tourism Decline and Wider Perspective

He noted a significant drop in alpine visitors during the current winter period, with 1 million fewer Italians visiting ski resorts compared to the prior season due to increasing expenses.

Despite these increases, Italy remains a cheaper option for skiing enthusiasts in western Europe compared to nearby Swiss resorts, France, and Austrian locations.

Olympic Context

The increasing worry over winter sports expenses comes as the country prepares to host the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics between February 6 and 22. Italy's foreign minister, the foreign affairs official, announced on Friday that Italy had presented a plan to the United Nations urging a "worldwide ceasefire" during the international event.

"Through the Winter Games we must similarly convey a peaceful communication and conversation... to stop warfare during the Olympics," Tajani emphasized.