Cortina is preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics by doubling the Skibus service for the 2025 winter season. 

Increasingly efficient mobility for the Cortina area

This mobility plan was made possible by the efficient collaboration between Dolomiti Bus with the Municipality, Cortina Skiworld cable car consortium of Cortina d'Ampezzo, San Vito, Auronzo and Misurina and the Cortina Hoteliers. “This season is a crucial one for Cortina,- says Stefano Rossi, CEO of Dolomiti Bus. -By doubling the Skibus service, combined with innovative and sustainable solutions, we are enhancing the area and meeting the need for increasingly efficient mobility. It is a concrete commitment to offer a quality experience to those who choose Cortina, as well as better preparing for the Olympics.” 

“The measure will reduce urban traffic”

“This is an important step forward for our community, because thanks to the additional rides, the free LPT and the free Skibus service for ski pass holders, we can encourage both residents and guests to use public transport,” says Giorgio Da Rin, councillor for public works and the road system of the Municipality of Cortina d'Ampezzo. The measure will reduce urban traffic and make it easier and more sustainable to reach the centre, the main car parks and the Faloria and Tofana ski areas.

QR codes at all bus stops

Among the new features introduced, in addition to dedicated graphics that will make the Skibus immediately recognizable, is the introduction of QR codes at all bus stops, providing the location and times of the buses. The service is free for ski pass holders and will continue until 30 March 2025.

For a luxury stay in one of the world's most famous mountain destinations, the Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d'Ampezzo has been a highpoint of elegance in Cortina since 1922.

“One of the world’s most sought-after mountain destinations”

The 5-star Radisson Collection hotel, which opened in the 2020/21 season, is located in a privileged position in the historic centre of Cortina. The perfect starting point for ski enthusiasts, the 120 kilometres of the Cortina d'Ampezzo Ski Area, as well as hosting the slopes of major sporting events such as the 2026 Olympics, are part of Italy's largest Dolomiti Superski area. “Following a major renovation and rebranding, we have consolidated our presence in one of the world’s most sought-after mountain destinations,- said Yilmaz Yildirimlar, area senior vice president central & eastern Europe, Russia & Turkey, Radisson Hotel Group.  -We are confident that our guests will appreciate the hospitality and high-level services that distinguish the Radisson brand.”

The hotel has 130 rooms and suites

Elegance, modern comfort and the Ampezzo style come together in this Art Nouveau property, creating an atmosphere that guests call a home away from home, said general manager Rosanna Conti. The hotel offers tailor-made experiences, from the choice of room to the Ski Concierge service, and from the Savoy Spa to the gastronomy. The Savoy Restaurant welcomes guests for breakfast and à la carte dinners, while the 1224 Terrazza & Bar Lounge is a scenic bistro and après-ski with 360-degree views of the Dolomites which is also open to outside guests.  The Grand Hotel Savoia has 130 rooms of different types: the Collection Room and Superior, Junior and Premier Suites and the Royal Suit on the 9th floor, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a terrace.

The Residence Savoia has 45 apartments

The hotel's Savoia Spa, from 5 p.m. adults only, offers personalized treatments and features a large indoor heated pool, Finnish sauna, biosauna, aromatic bath, Mediterranean bath and numerous relaxation areas. Among the services offered the state-of-the-art gym has a personal trainer or yoga teacher, and there is also a hairdresser's corner and a make-up area. The Residence Savoia, located opposite the hotel, has 45 apartments ideal for families with children. During the winter period the Rupi Clubhouse mini-club and the kids’club for children aged 3 to 12 entertain the very young with dedicated activities. Cortina is about 430 kilometres from Milan, 160 from Venice and 44 from the Austrian border. It can be reached by car, by train from Calalzo di Cadore or Dobbiaco, and by plane from Venice, Treviso or Innsbruck airports.

The Relais & Châteaux Vetera Matera, a new 23-room scattered hotel in the Sassi of Matera, will open on 15 March 2025.

Six new properties join the prestigious association

One of six exceptional residences to join the Relais & Châteaux Collection, the Vetera Matera will bring the number of new additions to the 2024 collection to 31. “For four generations our family has been committed with passion and dedication to the hotel and restaurant industry, offering unique and authentic experiences to our guests. In 2012 with the Bellevue Syrene 1820 we joined the prestigious family of Relais & Châteaux, an association that reflects our own approach to high quality hospitality, attention to detail and focus on the well-being of our guests,” says Adda Attanasio, director of sales and operations and owner of Relais & Châteaux Vetera Matera.

“Family traditions that have been handed down for generations”

“Kicking off this new hospitality project in one of the oldest cities in the world with the endorsement of Relais & Châteaux is an honour for us, and a confirmation of our commitment to keep alive family traditions that have been handed down for generations. It is also a renewed opportunity for growth and comparison with other professionals who, like us, put passion and their hearts into their work.”

New entries around the world

Opening in March 2025 is the new Relais & Châteaux Hotel Diepeschrather Mühle, a dream come true for multi-starred chef Nelson Müller, one of the most creative and pop masters of contemporary haute cuisine in Germany. Other new entries include an eco-resort in the Campos de Jordão botanical reserve in Brazil, a boutique hotel devoted to the nature and traditions of the Elqui Valley in Chile, a typical Norwegian forest mansion with a spa and breathtaking views of the Storfjorden, and The Modern, Chef Thomas Allan's restaurant inside the MoMa.

“70 years in constant pursuit of excellence”

“For 70 years our association has been in constant pursuit of excellence, with the aim of promoting a unique sense of belonging through hospitality and gastronomy. I am delighted to welcome these six new Relais &Châteaux associates which are committed to sharing and preserving the cultural, culinary and natural heritage of their region” said Laurent Gardinier, president Relais&Châteaux.

The city of Modena is fast becoming a new tourist hub with its Michelin-starred restaurants, history and luxury offerings.

A Michelin star for the ALTO Restaurant close to Modena

In November to mark the occasion of the presentation of the Michelin Guide 2025 Italy held in the Pavarotti Freni Theatre in Modena, the ALTO restaurant, housed on the rooftop of the 4-star Superior Executive Spa Hotel in Fiorano Modenese, in the province of Modena, received its first Michelin Star. This milestone marks an important recognition for the entire hotel team, and in particular for Mattia Trabetti, executive chef of ALTO. “Thus is a special day, one that we will never forget and will carry in our hearts. Our commitment has been rewarded, but we will continue to dedicate ourselves with the same passion and dedication that got us here. This star is just one step on our journey.” 

History and a unique UNESCO site

The ALTO food and wine experience is the perfect break on a tour of Modena and its surroundings. In the Emilia-Romagna region, just an hour's drive from Bologna, Modena is a thousand-year-old city known for its gastronomic excellence. It also has a rich historical and cultural heritage. Not to be missed is the city's UNESCO site, which includes the Cathedral, the Civic Tower and Piazza Grande. The ancient capital of the Duchy of Este, Modena has always been linked to music and it is the birthplace of the legendary tenor Luciano Pavarotti and numerous other artists. 

balsamic vinegar

The Modena area offers a wealth of opportunities for food lovers

The city is world-famous for its balsamic vinegar, its “black gold” which comes from processing the must of local grapes in traditional vinegar cellars, many of which are open to the public for guided tours. Speaking of grapes, numerous wine cellars can also be visited, to complete the experience with a tasting of the famous Lambrusco DOP wine. Parmigiano Reggiano DOP is another excellent product typical of the area, and visitors should also schedule in a visit to a cheese factory. 

The home of luxury and sports cars 

Modena is the heart of the Motor Valley, an area renowned for the production of luxury and sports cars, such as Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini and Ducati. Visitors should not miss exclusive experiences such as visits to museums, factories and collections that tell the story of these brands of excellence. Even more exclusive experiences include track driving at the wheel of high-speed engines, or a slow tour in vintage cars, which is also ideal for incentive trips. From 22 to 25 May 2025 the Land of Motors will host the 7th edition of the Motor Valley Fest which will feature a rich programme of conventions, round tables, exhibitions of cars from the Motor Valley brands, themed meetings, parades and tastings.

There are numerous places to visit around Modena

ALTO overlooks the Modena hills and the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Castle, symbol of the town of Fiorano and guardian of the miraculous fresco of the Madonna and Child. Fiorano Modenese is also known for being the home of ceramics. The Palazzo Ducale in Sassuolo, the summer residence of the Dukes of Este, is one of the most important Baroque buildings in northern Italy. In nearby Formigine, the castle is an example of the architectural evolution of a Medieval fortification into a Renaissance stately residence. It can now be visited and hosts numerous cultural events. 

Ville Castelli Dimore proposes an itinerary to discover the timeless charm of the Veneto region’s historic residences.

A noble residence with holiday apartments

Padua, also known as Urbs picta thanks to its cycle of 14th-century frescoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the first stop on the cultural itinerary proposed by Ville Castelli Dimore. A few steps from the Scrovegni Chapel, one of Giotto's masterpieces, stands Palazzo Mantua Benavides, a 16th-century noble residence. This place of peace and elegance in the city centre is also a journey through history with its charming suites, each of which is unique and has precious furnishings. It also offers refined apartments equipped with all comforts for holidays dedicated to art and beauty.

Exquisite frescoes and wine tastings

Renaissance painting is the protagonist at Villa Roberti, some twenty kilometres away, which is an ideal destination for a one-day visit. Situated in Brugine in the province of Padua, this 16th-century villa has frescoes by Giambattista Zelotti and Paolo Veronese in the main hall. Another must-see is Villa Emo Capodilista in Selvazzano Dentro (PD), in the Euganean Hills which was designed and frescoed by Dario Varotari, a pupil of Veronese. Here art meets flavour, thanks to the tastings organized of the excellent wine from the historic La Montecchia winery.

Sleeping under Giandomenico Tiepolo's frescoes

The Veneto itinerary of Ville Castelli Dimore through culture, art and beauty continues to Vicenza, the city of Palladio, who left some of his greatest masterpieces here, including the beautiful Teatro Olimpico. And on the outskirts of the city is the 18th-century Villa Valmarana ai Nani which offers art lovers an exclusive experience: sleeping under Giandomenico Tiepolo's magnificent frescoes. In fact, the villa houses one of the most important painting cycles of the 18th century, frescoed by two of the greatest artists of the day: Giambattista Tiepolo and his son Giandomenico. For information: www.villecastellidimore.com/en

There is Christmas magic to be enjoyed at the Adler AKI Family Resort Plose in Bressanone.

Bressanone is a destination for all the family

Bressanone has mountain charm and deep-rooted Christmas traditions, and is an ideal destination for families. From 28 November the Christmas Market will animate the old town centre with colourful decorations, carriage rides and activities designed for little ones, such as creative workshops, and special encounters with Father Christmas. The main square will host an ice-skating rink and immersive shows such as Colors 2 - The Journey Continues, embodying the spirit of Christmas.

ph credits: Andreas Tauber Weihnachtsmarkt

Games and fun for kids of all ages

The AKI Family Resort Plose by Adler is a five-star retreat set in the snow-covered nature of  Plose. Located in Meluno in the Eisack Valley, at an altitude of 1,000 metres asl, the resort enjoys panoramic views of Bressanone.  Designed for the comfort and enjoyment of the whole family, the AKI Games World and the AKI Kids Club have stimulating play-educational activities, also outdoors, aimed at younger guests. Children will also delight in the wood workshops where they can create candles and stars for Advent, while the Enchantment of Flames offers unique moments with marshmallows and hot drinks around the bonfire. 

ph credits: Alex Filz

An adults-only spa nestled in the forest

The resort's Spa & Wellness area has heated pools, water attractions and saunas suitable for the whole family. Thanks to the proximity to the Plose ski resort, guests can enjoy winter activities such as skiing, tobogganing on the RudiRun run, snowshoeing and skating on frozen lakes. Guests can also relax in the Adults-Only Spa which is nestled in the forest or take part in guided hikes and e-bike tours.

Childcare facilities and kids’ play areas

The  Adler AKI Family Resort Plose in Bressanone offers over 80 hours of childcare per week for children from one month old, a 24-hour baby-food corner and an educational programme with indoor and outdoor activities, play areas, creative workshops and a wellness area for the whole family. To complete the holiday experience, the cuisine combines Alpine and Mediterranean traditions, with gourmet dishes for parents and special menus for children. For information: www.aki-plose.com 

The Vigilius Mountain Resort offers its guests 5-star stays in the pursuit of nature, sustainability and wellness in the heart of the Dolomites.

Digital-free and TV-free stays

The eco-design Vigilius Mountain Resort is located in Lana, eight kilometres from Merano and close to Bolzano. At an altitude of 1,500 metres, the resort, which was recently awarded a Michelin Key, can only be reached by cable car, guaranteeing a stay in close contact with nature from the moment of arrival.  The Vigilius Mountain Resort offers the unique experience of almost total digital disconnection. The common areas are digital-free, while Wi-Fi is switched off at 23:00. The rooms are also TV-free, and guests who wish to do so can leave their smartphones at the reception or in the available safes.

Exclusive experiences for physical and mental well-being

Monte San Vigilio changes face with the seasons, offering unique experiences all year round: snowshoeing, skiing and ice skating in winter; hiking and discovering the alpine flora in summer and the Vigilius Mountain Resort provides rental equipment such as crampons, snowshoes and toboggans in the colder months, to mountain bikes and e-bikes for summer adventures. The resort offers its guests a rich variety of activities all year round, a focus on local customs and on physical and mental well-being.

ph credits Tobias Kaser

Not-to-be-missed Christmas celebrations

For Christmas and New Year there are exclusive programmes combining Alpine traditions, culinary experiences and musical events. The highlights of the festivities are the traditional Rauhnächte, 12 holy nights between Christmas and Epiphany, with artistic and culinary activities taking centre stage.  Then there is Christmas Eve with a festive dinner in the Restaurant 1500 and mass in the little church of San Vigilio, which can be reached on foot or by chairlift. On New Year's Eve the 8-course gala dinner will be in the Stube Ida, followed by live music, dancing and the Midnight Gondola, a toast in a cable car with fireworks. And visitors will not want to miss the Sterntaler Lana Christmas Market in the atmospheric Capuchin Garden. For these festive occasions the Vigilius Mountain Resort vouchers are available as gift ideas, with an exclusive promotion of an extra 10%. As places for all these events are filling up fast reservations should be made as soon as possible at +39 0473 556600 or by e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Wellness in the Aquiléia Spa and traditional cuisine

The renovated Aquiléia Spa on 1,200 sqm of wellness offers two floors of relaxation with activities and treatments including massages using heated Swiss pine sticks. Guests can also enjoy an indoor whirlpool connected to an outdoor pool, a solarium, relaxation area and sauna with panoramic views.  The Restaurant 1500 offers an exceptional culinary experience with farm-to-fork products used in the creations from Chef Daniel Sanin. Stube Idaalso welcomes day guests, offering seasonal dishes to be enjoyed both indoors and on the sunny terrace with views of the Dolomites.

Activities in and around Monte San Vigilio

There are numerous activities organized in summer, like the Südtirol Jazzfestival Alto Adige, the MeranoOjazz and the Merano Music Weeks, while LanaLive is a cross-disciplinary cultural festival. At Trauttmansdorff Castle the Touriseum and Gardens welcome visitors all year round, as do the museums of the Messner Mountain Museum circuit while there are also classic car rallies and events for wine lovers such as the Vernatsch Cup at the Vigilius Mountain Resort. For information: https://vigilius.it/en/home

The Nature Programme at Familienhotels Südtirol is packed with outdoor activities for younger guests.   

Creative activities for younger guests

The aim of the creative programme is to use games and workshops to educate children, helping them to develop manual, social and cognitive skills and raising their awareness of the importance of respecting and understanding the environment.  Each year the activities follow a main theme, always accompanied by off-the-shelf proposals, with the childcare assistants accompanying the youngest children in their discovery of nature artistically and playfully.    

ph credits Alex FilzHikes and nature adventures are part of the programme

The workshops this year will see the children try their hand at creating ice sculptures, birdhouses and Christmas decorations made from leaves, berries and other elements collected from nature. Also on the programme are hikes and nature adventures where they can learn to recognize animal tracks, cook dishes made from wild plants, roasting them over a bonfire, and using natural pigments such as berries and earth to paint in the snow.

“Programmes designed to stimulate children's curiosity”

“Our hotels not only offer luxurious surroundings, but also educational programmes designed to stimulate children's curiosity and learning,- explains Daniela Klotz, consultant, trainer and responsible for the Nature Programme and educational activities at Familienhotels Südtirol. -Our goal is to ensure that during their holiday children not only have fun, but also acquire new skills and knowledge that will leave a lasting impression.” 

Areas designed for babies and teenagers  

New for the autumn season is the Magic Workshop. Young guests can make magic wands and magician's hats, as well as magic bags for performing illusions. They will also create all the materials needed to put on the final show performing in front of their parents and receiving a magic diploma and a book full of magic tricks. The Familienhotels Südtirol hotels, residences and resorts offer family-friendly stays, replying to the interests of young and old alike with activities and modern, cozy areas designed especially for little ones, from babies to teenagers.

Have you ever experienced New Year’s Eve in a scattered hotel in Scicli? 

Five days of festivite fun

Scicli Albergo Diffuso invites you to celebrate an unforgettable Sicilian New Year, immersed in nature and local traditions, with an exclusive experience combining adventure, relaxation and the authentic flavours of Sicily. From 29 December to 2 January enjoy five days and four nights discovering a different Scicli, enveloped in a festive, wintry spirit that will make your stay even more special.

A charming town, nature treks and visits to wineries

New Year's Eve 2025 in Scicli: Trekking and Tradition allows you to rediscover the charm of this charming village in a unique atmosphere, far from the summer crowds. Imagine strolling through historic alleyways, nature treks amidst breathtaking scenery, visits to local wineries for wine tastings and a New Year's Eve dinner with colourful Christmas lights. Baroque churches, medieval alleyways, noble palaces, ancient pharmacies, museums and archaeological sites - some of them among the main settings of the successful RAI television series Inspector Montalbano - are all places to discover before celebrating New Year's Eve 2025.

Armosa wine tasting

A New Year’s Eve Gala dinner

The programme starts on 29 December with a welcome drink, followed by a guided evening tour of the historic centre of Scicli, a UNESCO heritage site. On 30 December it’s time for some urban trekking to explore the historical and cultural wonders of the village, time for a free lunch and, in the afternoon, a visit to a local winery with typical product tastings. On 31 December it’s time for nature with trekking among scenic trails and winter landscapes, a light packed lunch and, in the evening, the New Year's Eve Gala Dinner with traditional dishes, music and midnight toast. 

A ricotta cheese tasting in a masseria farmhouse

On 1 January it’s time to relax with a scattered breakfast, followed by free time to explore the historic centre at leisure, and then a hot ricotta cheese tasting in a traditional masseria farmhouse in the afternoon. And on the last day, 2 January, after a scattered breakfast guests will receive a small local gift as a souvenir of their stay. 

Staying in historic houses in the centre of Scicli

Scicli Albergo Diffuso is a unique holiday experience in the historic centre of Scicli, with rooms in restored ancient houses that retain the charm of the past. Starting from €447 per person in a standard double room, the package is an extraordinary opportunity to experience a different and thoroughly original New Year's Eve.

For information:  https://www.sciclialbergodiffuso.com