*** UPDATE 16.01.21: Since this piece was published it appears the Italian Government have now said all of the country's ski areas must stay closed to at least 15th February. ***
Italy's largest ski region, the Dolomiti Superski, which includes many of the country's leading ski resorts and is reputed to take a third of the total Italian ski holiday market has announced it won't open for the season until at least February 15th.
Italian ski areas appear to be allowed to open in certain circumstances from this coming Monday, January 18th, according to the ever-changing government regulations.
"Unfortunately, the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic does not allow us to open the season as planned on 18 January. For safety reasons, this date must be postponed again, at least until 15 February. We are very sorry, that we cannot give you any better information, especially since all the ski areas of Dolomiti Superski have prepared themselves with great commitment for this winter season," a statement from the region explains.
The region includes dozens of ski resorts including Val Gardena, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Alta Badia, Arabba and Val di Fassa.
Last month one of the Val Gardena ski areas announced it would not open at all this season due to the pandemic.
Cortina d'Ampezzo will host the World Alpine Skiing Championships behind closed doors from 8th February.
"We are however confident and optimistic that we will be able to welcome you as soon as possible on the slopes of the Dolomites," the Dolomiti Superski statement concludes.