Skiing and Snow around Lake Como: The Best Easily Accessible Destinations
Lake Como is not only a place of charm and breathtaking views: in winter, thanks to its strategic location at the foot of the Alps, it also becomes a perfect base for snow and ski lovers. In just a short drive—often less than a couple of hours—you can reach ski slopes of all levels, from large ski areas to small, family-friendly resorts ideal for beginners.
Piani di Bobbio – Valsassina: Ideal for a Day of Skiing
One of the closest and most convenient destinations for those staying on the lake, easily reachable in about one hour by car.
📍 Barzio / Valsassina: around 35 km of slopes suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers; excellent ski schools and mountain huts for a break with a view; perfect for a day trip or a snow-filled weekend without going too far from the lake.
👉 Recommended for beginners and families with children.
Pian delle Betulle & Alpe Giumello – Valsassina: Small Nearby Gems
For those looking for quieter slopes and smaller resorts:
📍 Margno (Pian delle Betulle) – ideal for beginners and young skiers
📍 Alpe Giumello – offers panoramic slopes with lake views and a more rustic atmosphere
👉 Great for learning to ski or for a first experience on the snow.
Madesimo – Valchiavenna: More Challenging Skiing
If you are looking for more technical slopes and a larger ski area:
📍 Valchiavenna – around 50 km of slopes at higher altitudes with beautiful descents, about 1h30 from Lecco / 1h from Colico by car. Ideal areas for both expert skiers and freeride enthusiasts.
👉 Perfect for intermediate and advanced skiers, or for a weekend on the snow.
Chiesa in Valmalenco – Sondrio: Wide Range of Slopes
📍 Chiesa Valmalenco: another alpine destination reachable from Como in about 1h30 by car; approximately 60 km of slopes, from beginner to expert level, excellent options also for snowboarders and ski mountaineering.
👉 A great choice for those looking for a well-equipped ski area without traveling too far.
Other Destinations – Snowy Weekend Getaways
If you are willing to travel a bit further (still within 2–3 hours), consider:
Bormio – a historic alpine resort with long slopes and a full range of tourist services
Livigno – a large ski area with numerous slopes and facilities for skiers of all levels
👉 Recommended for multi-day trips or for those looking for après-ski and other mountain activities.
Skiing in Switzerland: Border Resorts Easily Reachable from Lake Como
Thanks to its proximity to Canton Ticino and the Grisons, Lake Como also offers easy access to several renowned Swiss ski resorts. These destinations are highly appreciated for their excellent organization, high-quality slopes, and stunning Alpine scenery.
Airolo – San Gottardo (Canton Ticino)
Approx. 1h15–1h30 from Como
Located just across the border, Airolo is one of the most convenient Swiss ski resorts for those traveling from Lake Como: well-groomed slopes, ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers; excellent exposure and reliable snow conditions and authentic atmosphere and generally less crowded than larger resorts.
👉 Perfect for a day of skiing in Switzerland without long travel times.
Andermatt – Sedrun – Disentis (Canton Uri / Grisons)
Approx. 2 hours from Lake Como
One of the most spectacular and modern ski areas in the Swiss Alps: over 180 km of slopes; long, panoramic runs, ideal for experienced skiers and also an excellent destination for freeride and ski mountaineering.
👉 Ideal for a snowy weekend or a short winter getaway.
Splügen – Rheinwald (Canton Grisons, close to the Italian border)
Approx. 1h45 from Como
A small yet charming ski resort: quiet and uncrowded slopes with authentic Alpine scenery and a great alternative to more tourist-oriented destinations.
👉 Recommended for those seeking relaxation, nature, and uncrowded skiing.
St. Moritz (Upper Engadine)
Approx. 2h30 from Lake Como
An international icon of Alpine skiing: vast and perfectly organized ski are, slopes for all levels, with exceptional sunshine and views, exclusive atmosphere and high-end services.
👉 Perfect for those who want to combine sport, lifestyle, and Alpine luxury.
Practical Note for Switzerland
Please note that driving in Switzerland requires a motorway vignette, and ski pass prices are generally higher than in Italy. However, this is often balanced by the high quality of services and infrastructure.