Beginners skiing near lake como - end December

Hi, can someone please assist me. I am looking for the nearest suitable ski resort near Varenna (Lake Como) for 3 days of beginners ski lessons. Dates are the end of December so preferably somewhere that is high so that snow is very likely.

Regards

Neil

Hi Neilausten, welcome to the forum.

Do you intend to stay in Varenna and commute daily? If so, your best bet is probably going to be Madesimo at about an hour drive away. However, I've not been there since I went with my school 40 years ago, so cannot really comment to what it is like these days.

If you intend to stay in the resort for a few days, then there are plenty to choose from within a few hours drive. Please let us know, as I am sure someone will be able to give you some decent pointers.

Hi, I plan to stay at the resort for the three days. Madisemo accommodation is fully booked. Would appreciate your recommendations.

Hi, you could try either Bormio or Livigno, both high altitude. Haven't been to Bormio but Livigno is good for beginners especially if staying in the centre, very easy access to the beginner slopes.

Shoot up to Chiesa nice village and pretty snow sure from mid December ....

Probably the best beginners area is Piani di Bobbio, but I doubt they'll have enough snow in early December.
Livigno and Bormio are over 2 hrs drive from Varenna.
Haven't been to Chiesa, but if Madesimo is full, you can try Campodolcino which is linked to the ski area via the Ski Express (underground train).
I normally stay half board at Hotel Europa and find it to be very good value for money; the owner is super helpful and if you go before Christmas you can get discount on ski passes if you stay at least 3 nights (they used to do 3 days + one free or something similar).
As for snow .......... unless you go on a glacier, these days no ski resort has "assured snow" in early December, but if the temperatures drop the cannons will be working day and night.
The first time I went to Hotel Europa, Motta (the part of the resort you access with the Ski Express) was closed for lack of snow so the hotel organised a shuttle service to Madesimo. It then snowed heavily overnight and on day 2 Motta and the links were all open.

Alternatively you could also try Aprica, although that's lower than Chiesa and Madesimo.

Sorry, you're going at the end of December.....In that case you should have snow anywhere you go.

If you do opt for Madesimo and you need more info on the ski area, please feel free to ask.