Skiing around Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta

Discovering the ski resorts around Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta

Lake Maggiore, with its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views, is one of the most beautiful and sought-after destinations in Italy. But when snow covers its mountains, this corner of paradise between Piedmont and Lombardy turns into a perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Whether you are a fan of skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing or simply want to walk in the snow with snowshoes, the area surrounding Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta offers a variety of ski resorts, all within easy reach of the lakeshores. Despite their small size compared to the large alpine ski areas, these facilities offer unique experiences, with the possibility of skiing surrounded by spectacular views ranging from the Alpine peaks to the turquoise waters of the lakes.

In this article, we will guide you to discover the main ski resorts around Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta, highlighting the different opportunities to experience winter in an authentic way, between sport and nature.

Mottarone: a 360-degree panorama of the Alps and Lake Maggiore

Mottarone is one of the skiing jewels surrounding Lake Maggiore. Located a few kilometres from Stresa, in the province of Verbania, Mottarone is easily accessible by car. With an altitude of up to 1,500 metres, Mottarone is one of the most scenic ski resorts in the region.

Its slopes offer spectacular views not only of Lake Maggiore, but also of Monte Rosa and the entire Alpine chain, making every descent a unique experience.

Mottarone's slopes are ideal for alpine skiers and snowboarders, with trails suitable for beginners and experienced skiers alike. But what makes this resort really special is the opportunity to enjoy a 360-degree view, with the lake beneath your feet and the mountains silhouetted on the horizon. The panorama that opens up before you is something incredible and enriches every descent.

In addition, Mottarone also offers a number of unique attractions. One of these is Alpyland, an exciting alpine rollercoasterthat winds its way through the woods and down the ski slopes. This attraction, perfect for the whole family, is one of the most original in Italy, and offers an adrenaline-filled descent that ends with a breathtaking view of Lake Maggiore. A real adventure for those looking for something different from the usual skiing.

Those wishing to enjoy more leisurely excursionswill also find what they are looking for here. Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the snow-covered nature of Mottarone, enjoying the beauty of the woods and the views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trails are also suitable for beginners, and are an ideal way to immerse yourself in the silence and tranquillity of the mountains.

Passo della Forcora: a refuge for quiet skiers

If you prefer a more intimate and less crowded ski resort, Passo della Forcora, located on the Lombard shore of Lake Maggiore, is the ideal choice. Just 20 minutes from Luino, this small but cosy ski resort offers a family-friendly atmosphere and spectacular views of Lake Maggiore, with the peaks of the Rosa Mountains looming on the horizon.

Passo della Forcora is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed skiing experience. The ski facilities are modern and well-managed, with a medium-difficulty main slope that is suitable for experienced skiers and beginners alike. The resort also offers a small snowboarding area and some cross-country skiing trails. In addition, the resort is famous for its snowshoeing, which will allow you to explore the beautiful alpine landscapes in complete tranquillity.

The slopes at Passo della Forcora are ideal for families and those seeking a skiing experience away from the hustle and bustle of the larger resorts. Here, snow is guaranteed thanks to the modern snowmaking system, which ensures good snow quality throughout the winter season. In addition, the location of the pass allows you to enjoy an unparalleled view of Lake Maggiore, a true natural backdrop that makes every descent even more fascinating.Passo della Forcora: a refuge for quiet skiers.

La Piana: a family-friendly ski resort

If you are looking for an ideal ski resort for families and beginners, La Piana is the perfect choice. Not far from Cannobio, a well-known location near Switzerland and on the shores of Lake Maggiore, La Piana is an area that offers offers easy, well-maintained pistes, ideal for those taking their first steps on skis or for families with children. The small but cosy facility is perfect for those who want to enjoy the mountains without the crowds of the larger resorts.

Here, in addition to skiing, you can explore scenic snowshoeing trails, or simply stroll through the mountain landscape. The resort is easily accessible and offers the opportunity to experience snow just a few steps from Lake Maggiore, in a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.

San Domenico Ski: a pearl for winter sports enthusiasts

Less than an hour's drive from Lake Maggiore, on the Piedmontese shore, the San Domenico Ski area is one of the most popular destinations for snow sports enthusiasts. Situated in the heart of the Ossola Valley, an area that has managed to maintain its authenticity intact, San Domenico offers a skiing experience immersed in the wilderness of the Alps. The resort is located at an altitude of about 1,300 metres, but its ski lifts take you up to 2,500 metres, offering panoramic views from the mountain peaks to the valleys below.

San Domenico is a paradise for alpine skiers and snowboarders, with slopes to suit all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced skiers. Its slopes are wide, well-maintained and uncrowded, ideal for those seeking tranquillity without sacrificing snow quality. But that's not all: the area is also perfect for those who love ski mountaineering and snowshoeing. San Domenico is famous for its extensive areas dedicated to these sports, with itineraries winding through the woods and the most remote peaks, where you can explore unspoilt landscapes and enjoy the peace of the mountains.

If you are a cross-country skiing enthusiast, you will also find several dedicated routes, some of which allow you to admire the beauty of the Ossola Valley. Here, fresh snow is guaranteed even in the low season, thanks to the excellent management of the district, which has adopted a modern artificial snow system.

The San Domenico ski area is perfect for those looking for a ski resort that offers the right balance between sport and nature. Thanks to its location far from the most crowded tourist destinations, it is a resort that allows you to ski in tranquillity, with the advantage of a more intimate and authentic atmosphere.

Experience the Lakes also in winter: discover the properties on Lake Maggiore

If after exploring the winter wonders of Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta you want to live these experiences every day, our properties for sale offer you the opportunity to buy a second home or a permanent residence immersed in the nature and beauty of these unique places.

Investing in a property on Lake Maggiore allows you to enjoy the breathtaking views of the lakes and mountains even during the winter months, when the ski resorts are in full swing. With a villa or flat located close to the slopes, you can ski in the mornings and relax in the warmth of your home in the evenings, with the comfort of being within walking distance of the main ski lifts.

The areas of Stresa, Baveno, Oggebbio and Arona are among the most sought-after, with solutions ranging from detached villas with lake views to elegant flats overlooking the mountains. Buying or renting a property in this region allows you to live in an extraordinarily beautiful setting, with direct access to winter sports and all the opportunities offered by the lakes, from walks to gourmet restaurants, from excursions to boat trips.


Take the opportunity to invest in an area that will give you new emotions every day and allow you to enjoy an exclusive lifestyle, surrounded by a landscape that changes with the seasons.

A destination for everyone: sport and nature between lake and mountain

The area surrounding Lake Maggiore and Lake Ortais an ideal destination for those seeking a combination of snow sports and natural beauty. Thanks to their proximity to the lakes, these ski resorts offer the opportunity to enjoy the mountains in a unique way, combining skiing and winter sports with views ranging from Alpine peaks to the tranquil waters of the lakes.

Whether you are an expert skier or a beginner, a snowboarder or a snowshoe hiker, this area is perfect for experiencing winter in an authentic way. Ski resorts such as San Domenico Ski, Mottarone, Passo della Forcora and La Piana are all within easy reach of the region's main towns and offer a wide variety of facilities and activities.

The possibility of skiing on the slopes overlooking Lake Maggiore and Monte Rosa is an experience that will leave you breathless, giving you unforgettable memories of a winter immersed in the beauty of nature.

In conclusion, Lake Maggiore is not only a perfect summer destination, but also a winter retreat to be discovered. Experience the lakes also in winter and take advantage of the many opportunities for snow sports, enjoying unique landscapes and a tranquillity that only these lands can offer. And if you wish to make this beauty your new lifestyle, our properties for sale are the key to experiencing the charm of Lake Maggiore every day.