This Alpine Ski Town Is Italy's 'Little Tibet'-and It Will Host Snowboarding and Freestyle Events in the 2026 Olympics

"Sometimes nicknamed Italy's "Little Tibet," this town in the Rhaetian Alps-with a population of around 6,800-is famous for freestyle skiing and snowboarding. Nestled in the heart of the Alta Valtellina in Lombardy, right on the Swiss border, it sits at an elevation of nearly 6,000 feet and is surrounded by imposing mountains that wrap around the valley. Thanks to its various snow parks, Livigno was chosen to host snowboard and freestyle competitions during the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympics."

"Until the 1950s, Livigno was completely isolated during the winter, when heavy snow would make the roads connecting it to Italy and Switzerland impassable. After a 1951 avalanche that killed seven people, the townspeople banded together to ensure that Livigno wouldn't be cut off anymore in the winter. Following improved roads came the first ski lift-and with it, the first tourists."

Livigno is a high‑altitude town in the Rhaetian Alps of Lombardy, near the Swiss border, with about 6,800 residents and nearly 6,000 feet elevation. The town is renowned for freestyle skiing and snowboarding and features multiple snow parks; it will host snowboard and freestyle competitions during the 2026 Milano‑Cortina Olympics. Until the 1950s, heavy winter snow isolated Livigno; a 1951 avalanche prompted community efforts to keep winter access open. Improved roads and the first ski lift brought tourists over the past 70 years, helping Livigno retain traditional mountain authenticity while operating as a modern resort. Accommodation highlights include Hotel Lac Salin, a four‑star slope‑side hotel with gourmet dining and a large spa. Recommendations cover hotels, activities, dining, and shops with tips from local experts.

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