We are going skiing in the Dolomites in northern Italy at the end of February. Has anyone skied there before? What are conditions like? Any suggestions of best runs? We are one advanced/expert skier and one intermediate. Also, how easy is it to get around from one ski area to another? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Hi Deyna! I skied in the Cortina area several years ago and loved it! The Super Dolomiti ski pass is good for over 430 trans, gondolas, lifts. You can literally ski all over the Dolomites from village to village if you want. This was the most fun & most unique for us. Search under "Dolomites" for the other skiing post a little down on the list here. <BR><BR>As a skier, you know conditions change from day to day. I did read that northern Italy has been having a drought. So, I would definitely check current reports before making reservations.<BR><BR>Have fun!

Thanks, Dayle! We are going to stay in Alta Badia at the Rosa Alpina. We've been checking the webcams, and you're right - not much snow so far! But we hope to be able to explore and enjoy our trip even if there's no skiing. We will be renting a car - do you or anyone else have any advice on driving in Italy?

Hi Deyna! Please write a report when you get back. We had been looking at the Rosa Alpina too, and we are curious about it.<BR><BR>My husband and I went last year to Val Gardena. Skiing is great for intermediates. The Dolomites are really huge, so much bigger than anything in the USA. There are inexpensivbe public transportation, but don't underestimate distances. From each resort you are able to go to the next resort over, but it's harder to get to resorts that are farther away. It's really interesting because there are small towns that are linked by pistes and links. You are skiing in X-town and next thing you know you are in Y-town. This year we are hoping to ski the Sella Ronda, which links 3-4 resorts.<BR><BR>Last year snow conditions were excellent! There was a huge dump in March while we were there. Not much snow has fallen this year, though!<BR><BR>This year we are going to Val di Fassa/Fiemme (mid-late Feb), so we are also hoping for a dump.<BR><BR>Check out these 2 websites:<BR>www.dolomitisuperski.com and<BR>http://groups.google.com/groups?hl=e...resorts.europe

I just read your second post...with a car, you will be able to explore resorts that may be a bit farther. Allow enough time to get there - the roads up to the ski areas are mountain - windy roads, but driving will give you greater flexibility.