View of Isola Pescatori, Isola Madre and Isola Bella |
As it was our first time to ski we booked a group ski lesson at the ski school (Scuola Sci). We went on a Friday so it wasn't too crowded and there was no waiting in line. Mottarone is very suited to first timers with eight ski runs for beginner skiers and snowboarders. There are also ten ski runs for intermediates and three for expert skiers. The area also features spectacular cross-country trails.
We rented the ski boots, skis, poles (and a helmet for our daughter Amy) at the ‘Sciottalolo’ rental shop near top of the chairlifts. You need to bring some form of ID when you are renting out the equipment. We didn’t know this before going, but luckily our friend Serena had hers and that sufficed. The instructor, Antonella, first helped us with the very basic task of attaching the skis to the ski boots. Serena kindly took the photographs.
We learned that as the skis become more parallel, the faster you go; the more you snowplow, the more you slow down. In order to stop, we were told to just snowplow more widely and with more tilt. It helps if you have strong legs and have a good sense of balance. We practised this over and over going to a higher level each time.
Our daughter turned out to be a natural skier and showed us up. She had no fear at all and I think this is what made the difference. We were worried that if we fell over we might not be able to get back up or look foolish attempting to do so. I was surprised just how hard it is to ski but did have fun trying. It looks so easy when you watch other skiers; even little ones could manage really well. I’ve heard that after the first 3-6 hours you get the knack of it.
Monte Rosa |
Fil da Fer |
After lunch we rented snow sledges. It cost €5 for the afternoon and they provided hours of fun. Later in the day we chose to go back down to the cable car by the alpine coaster/bobsleigh called Alpyland – 750m of toboggan track with speeds of up to 40kph - it was thrilling!
Younger children might enjoy the little ski train operates every day from December 26th to January 9th and on weekends throughout the year.
For more detailed information about Mottarone see Dana’s wonderful blog Stresa Sights.
Photo credits: cable car and panorama - distrettolaghi.it
Ciao, Nora! Seems you have a great experience and fun as well! Lago Maggiore panorama looks a little bit different in snow topping. I like very much your story. I look forward to more stories about beautiful Stresa!
ReplyDeleteCiao Tatiana! Glad you liked the story. Yes, it was a great experience. I think that snow transforms Mottarone into a winter wonderland.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful day! I haven't skied in years but this makes we want to tri it again-in Italy, of course!
ReplyDeleteHi Janie! The recent unusually heavy snow in Italy has been a boon to ski resorts such as Mottarone. However it has been a mixed blessing and has created lots of difficulties for those in areas where the snow has not been cleared from the roads. Your Spring in Tuscany Trip sounds very appealing!
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