Hotel La Meridiana, Madesimo

Madesimo's ski school is held in extremely high regard. You might well assume that this would be a great place to learn as a result, but this isn't quite the case. Once the nursery slopes are conquered, there is quite a big step up in difficulty of terrain. Madesimo is best suited to intermediates, although with around 50km of runs, it won't take too long to cover all that's on offer. For experts, there is really only one substantial challenge - the Canalone piste. Boarders have a specialist park but, as with skiers, this is a better place for intermediates than beginners. It is, however, an uncrowded resort, served by a good lift system.

The village is small and attractive, with a very friendly, laid-back atmosphere, but offers limited après-ski. The restaurants are pretty good. Quiet, with only a small ski area, Madesimo is not that close to pistes provided by other resorts. But it is great value, has some reasonable terrain and is wonderfully peaceful.