Abetone

Abetone is Tuscany’s largest and most historic ski area, straddling the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines on the border of Pistoia and Modena provinces. With 50 km of pistes, 22 lifts, and two snowparks, it’s the most complete snowboard destination in central Italy outside the Alps. The resort has hosted international alpine competitions and has a long tradition of producing strong mountain athletes.

Why Go Snowboarding

Abetone delivers more than most Apennine resorts. Two snowparks — the main Val di Luce Park with jumps up to 15 metres and the Pulicchio Park with three progressive kickers — give freestyle riders real options. The Val di Luce sector has wide, flowing pistes ideal for carving, and the natural terrain features after a snowfall offer interesting off-piste lines. 22 lifts moving 18,000 people per hour mean efficient riding. At €36 for a day pass covering 50 km, the value is strong.

Terrain & Slopes

The resort spans roughly 1,388m to 1,940m across three main zones: the Zeno pistes in Val di Luce (designed by local champion Zeno Colò), the historic Abetone sector with Selletta, Fivizzani and Riva chairlifts, and the Pulicchio and Stucchi slopes on the Emilian side. The slope mix covers all levels, with 50 km of downhill and 18 km of cross-country trails. 110 snow cannons cover 24 km of runs.

Snowpark

Val di Luce Snowpark: twin jumps at 4, 6, 12 and 15 metres, boxes, rails, kickers, jib section and a separate beginner park. Pulicchio Snowpark: three kickers at 3, 4 and 5 metres for jump-focused sessions. Two parks at an Apennine resort is a genuine commitment to freestyle.

Getting There

From Florence: A11 motorway to Pistoia exit, then SS66 to Abetone (85 km, about 1h30). From Bologna: SS64 via Porretta Terme, about 100 km. Seasonal buses from Florence, Pistoia and Lucca. Train to Pistoia then bus (about 1 hour). Car parks in the village and at sector bases.

Tips

The season opened early in 2025-26 (late November) and usually runs to mid-April. Apennine weather can bring rain low down while it snows heavily at the top — check forecasts. Abetone village has good evening dining options. The €36 day pass is very competitive for 50 km of slopes.