Val di Fassa’s a valley of pretty mountain towns in the north of Italy, known for its world-class skiing amongst the dramatic surroundings of the Dolomites. And with an average of 300 days of sunshine each year, you’re almost guaranteed bluebird days on the slopes. Here are our top 5 reasons to go.

1. It’s Europe’s biggest ski area

With a seemingly endless 1200km to explore around the Sella Massif, you’ll be racking up the ski miles. The famous Sella Ronda circular route is a pilgrimage for any seasoned skier – take on the challenging day-long circuit and ski 26km of immaculately prepared piste. But that doesn’t just mean it’s a dream destination for advanced skiers, but for those starting out and building their confidence too. The large beginner areas and series of wide cruisy slopes tend to be quieter than its French neighbours.

2. Jaw-dropping scenery

Let’s not forget the unbelievable scenery you’ll be skiing past. Val di Fassa sits in the very heart of the Dolomite Mountains. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, their jagged peaks and rugged mountains are famed for glowing pink at sunset.

3. Deliciously inexpensive food and drink

A string of traditional mountain huts and fine-dining restaurants make great ski-in, ski-out lunch stops. And they’re a fraction of the price you might pay in other countries. Recipes passed down through generations use lots of local produce and show the influence of the nearby Trentino region and Austrian flavours from just over the border. You’ll find meaty stews and bread dumplings as well as pizzas, pastas and polenta on the menu. And don’t forget to try the local Italian wine and the aromatic weissbier – wheat beer typical of Germany and Austria.

4. Underestimated après

Similar to the food, the après scene in Val di Fassa is a mixture of Austrian and Italian culture. Choose slope-side partying and dancing in ski boots one day and a glass of wine and aperitivo nibbles at the bar another. Canazei has several popular bars including the Kaiserkeller. Set over two floors with pool tables, sofas and plenty of space to dance, you’re covered whether you want chilled-out après in the wine tasting lounge, or you’re up for a party on the dance floor to live music. And don’t miss happy hour.

5. Chocolate-box villages

Onion-domed church towers rise above frescoed buildings and wooden balconies, with charming boutiques and coffee shops lining the streets below. And for a winter moment to remember, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the pretty streets under the mountainous backdrop.

When you’ve chosen which idyllic resort you want to stay in, there’s a range of accommodation to choose from too. Catered chalets like Violetta and Traviata in picture-perfect Canazei include breakfast, lunch and dinner, with afternoon tea waiting for you at the end of the ski day. For a little luxury, the 4 star Hotel Rubino Executive has an impressive range of wellness facilities in Campitello.

As you begin thinking about your next ski trip, keep the Val di Fassa in mind. Wow-factor scenery, delicious food and drink and one of the world’s largest ski areas. See you on the slopes.