Cimone / Sestola

Monte Cimone is the largest ski resort in the northern Apennines, built around the highest summit in Emilia-Romagna at 2,165m. With 50 km of interconnected slopes, 18 lifts, and three snowparks including an 85m halfpipe, it delivers a surprisingly serious snowboard offer for riders based in central-northern Italy. Sestola is the main base town, set within the Frignano Regional Park.

Why Go Snowboarding

Cimone has the most complete freestyle offer of any Apennine resort in Italy. The main park at Passo del Lupo is genuinely well-built: a proper halfpipe, progressive kickers and a wide variety of jib features. Beyond the park, the wide pistes and natural terrain shapes across six interconnected sectors make for flowing, fun riding. 80% snowmaking coverage keeps conditions reliable even in low-snow seasons. The season extends potentially into April.

Terrain & Slopes

The resort spans 900m to 1,976m with 50 km of linked pistes across six areas: Passo del Lupo, Polle, Cimoncino, Lago Ninfa, Montecreto and Pian del Falco. Standout runs include the Direttissima (black, 1.7 km) and the long Sette Fontane (2.7 km). 18 lifts serve the whole area. The varied exposures across sectors mean there’s usually somewhere with good snow conditions.

Snowpark

Three parks: the Passo del Lupo Snowpark with its 85m halfpipe, kickers, rails, C-box, double tube, rainbow box, woops and spine is the headline feature. Lago Ninfa offers mid-level jib features in a scenic forest setting. Polle Park is the entry-level option for those new to freestyle. All three are actively maintained through the season.

Getting There

From Modena: A1 motorway, Modena Nord exit, then SS12 to Sestola (80 km, about 1h15). From Bologna: about 90 minutes via Pavullo. Seasonal coaches link Sestola to Modena and Bologna. Car is the most convenient option. Parking at the various sector bases.

Tips

Apennine weather can be unpredictable — rain at the base can mean excellent snow at altitude. Always check conditions the day before. The season can extend into April with snowmaking. Sestola has a lovely medieval centre for evening meals. A two-day pass already offers better value than two singles.