A new air service between London Stansted and the small Italian city of Bolzano, right next to the Dolomites, launches this winter.
Run by the Bolzano-based airline SkyAlps which uses smaller, 74-seat, turbo-prop airliners that generate about half the CO2 of conventional planes, the company says, the new service will make getting to some of Europe's most stunning areas like Alta Badia and Val Gardena much quicker and easier.
Up to now most skiers and boarders heading to the Dolomites fly into Innsbruck, Milan, Verona or Venice, usually 2-4 hours from most ski areas. By contrast Bolzano's small airport is within an hour of most of the well-known ski areas in the Dolomites. With just a couple of gates, travel through the airport is typically very fast too, so there's less time wasted in arrivals and departures as well.
With seat prices starting from €184 each way, the new route will operate twice a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays with flights now on sale for the whole winter season, running until 14 April.
Travellers can relax and enjoy a premium experience aboard the 2 hour and 35-minute flight, tasting the extensive in-flight menu comprised of regional delicacies and wine from 48 selected producers, including four awarded quality wines every month.
SkyAlps' Dash 8 Q400s aircraft consumes around 50% less fuel than the average jet and is extremely efficient. At 2.3 litres per passenger per 100 kilometres travelled, the planes achieve an emission saving of around 50% compared to conventional jet.
SkyAlps' new route is affordable and environmentally friendly, but still a premium option for those travelling to the Dolomites. Whether you're an avid skier, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking to experience a slice of Alpine paradise, this new route promises to be the gateway to unforgettable experiences.
The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for their breath-taking landscapes, pristine slopes, and world-class skiing opportunities. It offers some of the best skiing in Europe, The Dolomiti Superski is the largest ski circuit in the world, boasting 1,200km of ski slopes and accessible by 50 lifts across 15 resorts, including world famous destinations like Bal Gardena, Alta Badia, Arabba and Cortina d'Ampezzo.
In terms of the in-resort experience, the Dolomites selling points include the fact that they are protected from northerly storms, meaning the chances are you'll get more blue bird days than anywhere else in Europe. The sun shines an average of 8 days out of 10 and the villages here offer an almost entirely Italian atmosphere, where travellers get to embrace a traditional Italian ski holiday. The region is also known for its delectable cuisine, with traditional Alpine dishes and Italian flavours, it's a culinary experience perfect for even the fussiest of easters.