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Italian consumer advocates are sounding the alarm over what they describe as entirely unreasonable cost hikes for lift tickets this cold-weather period, warning that alpine sports could become an exclusive privilege for the wealthy.

Substantial Price Increases Throughout the Country

From the majestic Alps and stunning Dolomite mountains in the northern areas to the ski runs of Abruzzo, prices are set to rise by up to 40% compared to prices from three years ago, according to fresh research.

The popular Dolomiti Superski ticket, which grants access to all 12 resorts in the premium Dolomite area, will now set visitors back €86 per day during the current winter. In the popular Abruzzo resort, a single-day lift ticket is expected to reach €60, following substantial visitor surges during the previous winter.

Seasonal Pass Costs and Supplementary Charges

At the same time, seasonal ski passes will vary between €755 per adult in the Abruzzo region to as much as €1,800 in the Aosta valley.

The cost of renting ski equipment has also increased, along with hotel accommodations and dining expenses throughout mountain resorts.

Consumer Group President Cites Unjustified Increases

The consumer association president, heading the watchdog organization, stated that the price increases—attributed by resorts to higher energy costs, resort maintenance, and demand for better equipment—were entirely unreasonable and not acceptable.

"Particularly since inflation in Italy are under control and utility costs, which had increased expenses for mountain facility managers in 2022, have returned to normal," he explained.

The president further stated that prices have climbed to points where less wealthy individuals are being forced to abandon their traditional settimana bianca, or ski holiday, altogether.

Tourism Decline and Wider Perspective

He noted a significant drop in mountain tourism during the current winter period, with a million fewer domestic visitors visiting ski resorts compared to the previous year due to rising costs.

Even with these hikes, Italy remains a cheaper option for skiing enthusiasts in western Europe compared to neighboring Switzerland, France, and Austrian locations.

International Event Background

The increasing worry over skiing costs comes as the country prepares to host the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics between February 6 and 22. The nation's top diplomat, the foreign affairs official, announced on Friday that Italy had submitted a proposal to the United Nations urging a "worldwide ceasefire" during the international event.

"With Milan Cortina we must also send a peaceful communication and conversation... to stop warfare during the Games," Tajani emphasized.