Set in the rock steeples of the Brenta Dolomites – unique tops of such a rare beauty to be declared a Unesco world heritage – and the ice stretches of the Adamello-Presanella range, Madonna di Campiglio is the most beautiful and precious pearl among the ski resorts in the Italian Alps.

Madonna has a magical feel to it – like something out of a snowglobe. The town itself is built in traditional Italian style, with plenty of lively bars, delicious local restaurants and stylish designer shops around the car-free Piazza Righi. The resort spreads for around 2 miles down the wooded valley, with a bus service connecting accommodation further away from the center.

The slopes are varied and extensive with long, confidence-building blue runs, as well as low gradient reds which are great for timid intermediates. The area lift pass includes Folgarida, Marilleva, and Pinzolo, giving more than enough piste to keep most skiers happy for a week. The resort claims 93 miles of runs which is probably big enough for a week for most of the skiers who come here, who also want to spend time, eating, drinking, sunbathing and promenading around. A relentless piste basher might get through it within four or five days, but other resorts like Passo Tonale, are covered by the Skirama lift pass and just about reachable by public transport.

Tree-lined runs lower down extend up to a variety of higher peaks, many with impressive views of the iconic Brenta Dolomites – especially up towards Spinale and Groste.