This resort, nestled deep in the d'Ampezzo Valley, has always had a stellar reputation for the company it draws and keeps - the Italian crème de la crème and deservedly so. The town may be surrounded by beeping vehicles but in the sanctuary of the pedestrian zone it's all a haven of peace and quiet with an afternoon bevy of activity: watching arm-in-arm fur-clad strollers in the finest modo d'Italia and their fashionista followers.

During the day it's the skiing - and what skiing there is! The Dolomiti Superski pass covers 12 ski areas, 460 lifts and 730 miles of marked trails! It's the best Italy has to offer, maybe the best anywhere - You can ski totally alone in Hidden Valley below WWI mountain tunnels and under its majestic ice falls or cruise down the backside of the picturesque Cinque Torri. Another day pack in 40 miles to ski the 'Sella Ronda' while racing to catch the last lift home before it stops for the day. With so much to pick from, it's truly best to hire a guide for the week - if you're lucky like us, maybe Charlie Tessari will be your man!