Passo Tonale overview
Plenty of quiet, easy runs accessed by chairlifts near hotels.
Linked to a high glacier and well covered by snowmaking.
Great value for money in resort, with a small and friendly après scene.
Passo Tonale, as the name suggests, is a high mountain pass linking the regions of Trentino and Lombardy. It’s got an efficient lift system - meaning few queues - and most hotels are within easy reach of the chairs. There's a gondola, too, that takes you from the bottom of Paradiso all the way to the 3,000m Presena Glacier - so no fumbling about on drag lifts.
Between the high altitude slopes and extensive snowmaking, the resort has a long season and even offers night skiing to anyone with more than a three-day lift pass. Beginners benefit from excellent English-speaking ski schools and a multitude of low-gradient pistes starting and finishing a short walk from most accommodation. Those progressing further can take the gondola over to Ponte di Legno for more red and black runs through the trees. There are even some impressive off-piste options available for anyone who fancies a challenge.
It's essentially a one street town, with all the amenities you'd expect from a small resort. Bar a few high-rises on the edge, the architecture is generally typical Alpine chalet style. All the basics are covered, plus local souvenirs and the equipment required to get you on the piste. For more shopping, try the charming pedestrian area in Ponte di Legno.
Most hotels have their own restaurants, plus there are a few more dotted around if you fancy venturing out. Après ski is usually had in the sunshine at the foot of the slopes, but for those looking to go out at night, there are a couple of bars and clubs worth checking out. For a real treat, take the gondola up to the Presena Glacier at 3,000m and enjoy a bottle of bollicine - the local fine sparkling wine - with a view at the new boutique hotel.
There's a regular and free minibus service around town, but it's all pretty flat, so you can get most places on foot in less than half an hour. Plus, for those not skiing every day, there's plenty of other activities to try - from spas at most hotels, to cross-country skiing or snowmobiling. To keep the kids entertained, once a week the resort organises races, illuminated runs, face painting and hot chocolate.