We caught up with Giorgio following the launch of our latest Italy ski weekend experience — the Wine Ski Safari. This exciting new addition to our experience-led ski holidays is inspired by Alta Badia’s renowned end-of-season celebration, where skiers can sample up to 60 wines across a selection of mountain huts. It’s a weekend that blends world-class skiing with the best of South Tyrolean food and wine culture.
Stay at the gorgeous Gran Paradiso from the 20-23 March 2026.
Updated: 24th October 2025
Meet Giorgio, your host for the Wine Ski Safari Weekend
Wine Ski Safari
You know the Wine Ski Safari inside out — what makes it such a special experience for people visiting Alta Badia?
“It’s a truly magical event where you can combine the unrivalled beauty of the Dolomites with a passion for skiing, delectable mountain cuisine, and fine local wines. The atmosphere is unlike anything else — warm, vibrant, and full of joy. A weekend that will build lasting memories in a fairy tale destination.”
What do you think guests will love most about trying it with Skiworld for the first time?
“All those amazing elements — the skiing, the food, the wine, and the scenery — are already unforgettable. But with Skiworld’s planning and organisation, guests can enjoy it all effortlessly, knowing every detail is taken care of.”
For anyone who’s never done it before, how would you explain what the Wine Ski Safari actually involves?
“It’s a weekend of gourmet food, fine wine, and unforgettable skiing on some of the Dolomites’ most stunning slopes, from the Lagazuoi Hidden Valley run with its horse-drawn lift to the scenic La Crusc ski tour. Add magical panoramas and great company, and it’s an experience that perfectly blends adventure, indulgence, and effortless style.”
Alta Badia and the Sellaronda are famous ski areas — what sets them apart from other parts of the Dolomites?
“The Dolomites are all incredible, but for me, Alta Badia is the perfect base. The hospitality is up to another level, the peaks around San Cassiano are breathtaking, and the unique South Tyrolean atmosphere is simply unmatched. Add the chance to join a world-famous ski circuit like the Sellaronda directly from your doorstep, and you truly have it all: stunning scenery, perfect skiing, and unforgettable experiences.”
The event combines skiing with gourmet food and wine — why does that combination work so well here?
“The quality of food in Alta Badia is truly exceptional. If you try it, you will be conquered forever. The concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants in this area is unbelievable and even the humblest hut serves delicious food. The region, which has a significant Austrian influence, is renowned for producing high-quality, well-regarded wines due to its diverse landscape and blend of tradition and innovation. South Tyrol wines are produced in a unique Alpine-Mediterranean region with both indigenous and international grape varieties, including prominent white wines like Pinot Bianco, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Grigio, and reds such as Lagrein and Vernatsch. They will surprise you.”
Accommodation swimming pool
Is there a particular mountain hut or tasting stop that always stands out for you on this Italy ski weekend?
“Jimmy’s Hütte and Piz Arlara are my favourites and exactly where we’re planning our stops. They must be tried. The quality of food and service there is simply the best.
At Jimmy’s, we usually enjoy a selection of local starters followed by three sharing pans, typically two different fresh pastas and a rich risotto — a real taste of South Tyrol’s mountain cuisine. At Piz Arlara, the atmosphere is equally special, with refined appetisers and mains that might range from homemade pasta to creamy polenta or the classic skier’s dish of sautéed potatoes, eggs, and speck.
Both huts capture what Alta Badia does so well: authentic flavours, warm hospitality, and unbeatable views.”
What’s special about South Tyrol’s food and wine culture that people might not expect to find on the slopes?
“South Tyrol’s food and wine culture is special because of its unique blend of Mediterranean and Germanic influences, creating a “best of both worlds” culinary landscape of both hearty Alpine fare and fresh, lighter Italian-style dishes. This duality is supported by a modern approach to food that prioritises sustainability and a farm-to-table ethos, which may be surprising to find in a traditional mountainous region.”
What kind of skier do you think will get the most out of this weekend — adventurous types, food lovers, or both?
“The Wine Ski Safari Weekend is ideal for skiers who appreciate the experience as much as the skiing itself. It’s not about racing from first to last lift; it’s about savouring the journey: great runs, gourmet food, fine wine, and stunning Dolomites scenery. It’s for curious, cultured skiers, people who love the mountains, appreciate good food and wine, and want a more immersive, hosted ski experience rather than a standard ski holiday.”
What advice would you give to guests joining the Wine Ski Safari for the first time?
“Take it slow and soak it all in. The Wine Ski Safari isn’t about racing through pistes; it’s about enjoying every moment: the landscapes, the food, the people, and of course, the wine. Start each day with an open mind (and an empty memory card), because every stop offers something different, from world-class views on perfectly groomed runs to cosy mountain huts serving South Tyrol’s best wines.”
What do you enjoy most about welcoming visitors to Alta Badia?
“What I love most is the opportunity to show people just how special and magical Alta Badia really is. The beauty of the Dolomites is unmatched; every view feels like a painting, and the food, wine, and hospitality are on another level. There’s something truly rewarding about seeing guests experience it all for the first time and knowing that everything runs smoothly thanks to careful planning and organisation. It’s that mix of passion, precision, and place that makes welcoming people here so enjoyable.”
Horse drawn ‘lift’
Is there a moment or view on the route that always reminds you why you love these mountains?
“That’s almost impossible to answer — there are so many moments that take your breath away. Maybe it’s the view of the Sassongher towering above Corvara, or the La Crusc ski itinerary at sunset, when the “enrosadira” paints the mountains pink and orange above the little Santa Croce church. Or perhaps it’s the sheer magic of the Lagazuoi–Hidden Valley run, one of the most beautiful descents in the Alps. How can I pick only one? Every time I see those views, I’m reminded why I love the Dolomites so much — they never stop feeling extraordinary.”
And finally — how do you like to celebrate the end of a perfect day on the slopes?
“For me, it’s all about unwinding back at the Hotel Gran Paradiso, embracing everything the wellness area has to offer. A swim in the outdoor heated pool as the sun sets over the Dolomites is pure bliss, and the perfect way to ease tired legs after a great day on the slopes. Then it’s time to savour a gourmet dinner, paired with a good glass of South Tyrolean wine… the ideal ending to a perfect ski day.”
Don’t miss the chance to experience the Wine Ski Safari for yourself. Plan your Italy ski weekend now and enjoy unforgettable skiing, gourmet cuisine, and world-class wines in the stunning Dolomites.
A winter lover, Annie first hit the slopes in her early teens before going on to complete her ski instructor qualification and two seasons in St Anton. While she’s now most often spotted on a snowboard, Annie still thrives on the thrill of chasing fresh powder and capping off her day with a little boogie – preferably at the Krazy Kanguruh!
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