Winter sports are an opportunity to enjoy the snow and the mountain landscape, which offer a range of physical, psychological and social benefits that require activities particularly suited to improving general well-being.
From alpine skiing to ice skating, snowboarding and snowshoeing, winter sports are an opportunity to keep fit during the colder months, while having fun and experiencing a unique connection with nature and our land.
Friuli Venezia Giulia, with its Friulian Alps and Dolomites, offers some of the best skiing and mountain destinations for families and more... there is no shortage of opportunities for the most extreme descents for skiers in search of the limit and the huts where you can taste our traditional dishes.
Moreover, the beauty of our region is manifested in the landscape on the horizon: reaching the top of the mountains with snowshoes you can admire the sea and the lagoon of Grado and Marano, a spectacle for the eyes that makes the climb less tiring.
Here are some of the most popular resorts in our region:
- Piancavallo: 25 km of downhill slopes, a baby snow park and an Alpine Coaster, exciting for the little ones.
- Sella Nevea: 15 km of ski slopes on the slopes of Mount Canin. Location renowned for hiking and ski touring.
- Tarvisio: renowned for the Di Prampero slope and the ski area, which includes no less than 15 ski lifts.
- Sappada: a perfect resort for families. It includes ski slopes, trails and amusement parks for children.
- Monte Zoncolan: an ever-expanding ski area, huts typical Friulian huts, après ski, spas and cosy hotels for those who want to dedicate themselves to relaxation. Mount Zoncolan is increasingly a resort for young people and families.
- Forni di Sopra: a small family resort, perfect for those who want to learn to skiing and for the more expert: the Varmost ski piste is one of the longest in Italy. in Italy.
But what are the benefits we can gain from winter sports:
- Improved physical condition: Winter sports are a great way to improve cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength. For example, downhill skiing and snowboarding involve the lower limbs, buttocks and core more, as well as the cardiovascular system. Other sports such as cross-country skiing and ice skating, on the other hand, are particularly effective in improving aerobic endurance and coordination. In addition, the climate and low temperature contribute to consuming more calories. When the body is exposed to the cold, the metabolism increases to maintain body temperature, which helps to consume energy.
- Psychophysical Health Benefits: Outdoor sports activities, particularly in natural settings such as the mountains, are known to have positive effects on psychophysical health. Winter sports promote the production of endorphins known as ‘happy hormones’, which improve mood and reduce stress. The snow and mountain scenery also help reduce anxiety and tension, creating a relaxing environment that stimulates concentration and meditation. In particular, snowshoeing or trekking in the snow provides an experience of tranquillity, away from the daily hustle and bustle, which helps to restore balance and serenity.
- Immune System Benefits: Exposure to cold stimulates the immune system, increasing resistance to infection. Outdoor physical activity improves blood circulation and helps maintain a stronger and more responsive immune system. In addition, fresh mountain air is generally cleaner and free of pollution, helping to improve respiratory function.
- Connecting with Nature and rediscovering the land: practising winter sports offers a unique form of connection with the natural environment. Snow-covered mountains, peaceful forests and breathtaking winter scenery create a sensory experience that enriches our perception of the world. The feeling of freedom experienced when skiing on a deserted slope or exploring snow-covered trails is an aspect that makes winter sports particularly popular with those seeking a break from hectic city life. The huts nestled in the snowy landscapes offer traditional food and put the icing on the cake to these landscapes. In Carnia it will be easy to find the renowned cjarsons, a variation of ravioli filled with spices and herbs, on the table. Another traditional first course is pumpkin gnocchetti with smoked ricotta cheese.
Last but not least: frico. Frittata with potatoes, onions cheese suitable in all contexts: lunch, aperitif and dinner, accompanied by a succulent polenta.
Winter sports therefore offer more than just fun in the snow practising winter sports means not only keeping fit, but also enriching your lifestyle with unique and beneficial experiences. If you have never done so, now is the time to put on your skis or snowboard and embark on a winter adventure in our Friuli Venezia Giulia region.
(Article by Dr. Gioia Girardi)
