The Overview
Michael Fulton
Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.
Cimone dominates the Northern Apennines as Emilia Romagna's largest ski destination, with 50km of interconnected terrain sprawling across the region's highest peak at 2,165m. This expansive resort encompasses six distinct skiing sectors—Passo del Lupo, Lago della Ninfa, Le Polle, Cimoncino, Montecreto, and Pian del Falco—all accessible with a single ski pass. The resort's exceptional width and natural terrain conformation create ideal conditions for intermediate and advanced skiers, while comprehensive snowmaking coverage across 50km ensures reliable conditions throughout the season.
With 20 modern lifts including an aerial tram, six-person chairs, and quad chairs efficiently transporting skiers across the mountain's three faces, Cimone delivers a sophisticated Apennine skiing experience within the protected Frignano Regional Park setting. The resort's position straddling the Emilia-Tuscany border at elevations between 900m and 1,976m creates distinctive terrain rarely found in Italian Apennine destinations, combining extensive vertical drops with the trademark wide pistes that characterise this historic mountain.
1076m
Vertical
25
Runs
50 km
Piste
4m
Annual snow
The Terrain
25 runs across 50 km of piste
Cimone spreads 25 runs across 50 km of piste of terrain. It leans intermediate at 50%, with 8 beginner runs to find your feet and 5 advanced or expert runs when you want to push.
Terrain split
25
runs
25 runs across 4 grades
Beginner8 runs · 30%
Intermediate13 runs · 50%
Advanced5 runs · 20%
Expert0 runs · 0%
Time it right
When to visit Cimone
Cimone typically operates from mid-December through early April, with peak conditions concentrated in January through March when the resort benefits from its elevated Northern Apennine position. The comprehensive snowmaking system covering the entire 50km of terrain provides exceptional reliability throughout the season, supplementing natural snowfall that averages 350cm annually. The resort's elevation span from 900m to 1,976m creates varied snow conditions, with upper slopes maintaining excellent coverage while lower runs benefit from extensive artificial snow infrastructure.
Monte Cimone's position as the highest peak in the Northern Apennines exposes the resort to consistent weather systems, though clear days reveal extraordinary panoramic views extending from the Alps to the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas. The predominantly intermediate terrain with 50% red runs appeals particularly during stable midwinter periods, while the 30% beginner terrain at lower elevations remains accessible even during marginal snow years. The resort's protected position within Frignano Regional Park creates a distinctive microclimate that often preserves snow quality when other Apennine destinations struggle.
Season 2025 - 2026
13 Dec 2025
Opens
6 Apr 2026
Closes
114
Days open
4 m
Annual snow
Getting there
Getting to Cimone, and where to stay
Located in Modena province at the heart of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, Cimone sits approximately 100km from Bologna and 150km from Florence, making it the most accessible major ski destination for both cities. The historic mountain villages of Sestola, Fanano, Riolunato, and Montecreto provide comprehensive accommodation and dining options at the resort's base, offering authentic Emilia Romagna hospitality and traditional cuisine including tigelle flatbread, gnocco fritto, and fresh tortellini. Bologna Airport provides the primary international gateway just 90 minutes away, while Florence Airport offers alternative access for visitors combining Tuscan cultural experiences with Northern Apennine skiing.
The resort's strategic position along the regional border delivers cultural diversity, with valley towns reflecting both Emilian and Tuscan influences in their architecture, cuisine, and local traditions. This distinctive location within the High Modenese Apennines Regional Park surrounds visitors with protected beech and coniferous forests, providing scenic beauty and environmental significance beyond the skiing. The nearby cities of Modena and Bologna offer exceptional cultural attractions, world-renowned restaurants, and the legendary automotive heritage of Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati factories, creating opportunities for comprehensive Italian experiences beyond the slopes.
Where to stay
Search all stays →Hotels and lodges near Cimone, powered by Stay22.
Latest News
From the SnowStash desk
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Mount Hotham to Close for the 2026 Season on Sunday, September 6
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Thredbo to Replace Ageing Gunbarrel Quad With New Six-Seat Chairlift for 2028
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