We are heading to Livigno for 2 weeks over Christmas / New Year and are trying to pre-book skiing and snow boarding lessons. There are so many agents in Livigno 'selling' ski schools that it's hard to figure out which are the good ski schools and which are paying the agents the highest commission. Can anyone help with recommendations of ski schools - we are pretty amateurish (come from an area of the Southern Hemisphere where we don't get that much snow). I'll appreciate any help in this regard. Thanks.

Hi Kaapie,

i had a look at the Livigno tourist office website, which gives direct links to the ski schools, which may help a bit. i also found Livigno on TA and looked at the things to do section which rates a couple of the ski schools:

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attract..._Lombardy.html

I hope that you find what you want and have a great time!

I'd not worry about the school but select the rental station nearest to the newbies training area, you move the slowest and most painfully when you are starting so if you can minimise the stagger distance you will enjoy it most.

http://www.skidemon.co.uk/region/italy/livigno gives you the basics as there are a bunch of nursery slopes in the area. If you have not skied before I'd suggest basic lessons for the first five days but top up with one to one from day three on as you will progress fast with one to one but you body needs the first two days just to catch its breath. If you have skied before and just need progression then one-2-one maybe all the time.

Livigno is tax free by the way

Thanks Annhig - I'd forgotten to refer to Tripadvisor - I always use it for places to stay etc but had forgotten that they cover activities as well

Thanks Bilboburgler - that's pretty relevant info and will certainly help add to the enjoyment level.

We have been to Living numerous times with my cousin Lena and her family. They live nearby in Samedan, Switzerland.

Livigno enjoys a duty free (VAT) status, where taxes are not paid. It is an Alpine ski resort and the entire place is one gigantic shopping outlet. High end fashion, jewelry stores, and electronic abound in addition to all sorts of other shops. The locally produces food items are first rate and of high quality.

We can't offer any ski school suggestions, but this is a neat location. It is very close to the Bernina Pass, which is gorgeous. You can drive down to Tirano, Italy or take a train. This pass is stunning in its beauty.

Go and have fun.

Buon viaggio,

In winter, the drive to Tirano goes over 2 alpine passes (Passo d'Era and Passo di Foscagno) and through Bormio.
There is no train at Livigno; the nearest train station is Zernez (Switzerland), 3 hrs by train from both, Zurich airport and Tirano.