Skiing in Tuscany for Wine Lovers
- Rebecca Gouttenoire
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Winter Escapes Surprisingly Close to Florence
Tuscany may be famous for vineyards and rolling hills, but winter reveals a lesser-known side of the region: small ski resorts tucked into the Apennines and southern mountains, surprisingly close to Florence and some of Tuscany’s most important wine areas.
No, this isn’t where the Winter Olympics will be hosted — but it is a wonderful alternative if you’re looking to add a touch of snow to your Tuscan winter vacation.
For travelers based in Florence during the colder months, skiing isn’t an alternative to wine tourism — it’s a natural complement. Think short ski days, scenic drives, cellar visits, and fireside dinners, all within easy reach of the city.
A Florence-Based Winter Experience
One of the best cities to base yourself in during winter is Florence. While the city is often criticized for being overcrowded in summer and shoulder seasons, winter is calmer, more intimate, and deeply rewarding. Museums are easier to visit, reservations are simpler to get, and Florence’s dining scene truly shines.
Unlike many countryside villages that slow down or close in winter, Florence never really does. That’s why you can still enjoy small-group wine tours with Grape Tours year-round — and somehow, winter is when Tuscany feels most authentic.
Sometimes, the perfect wine day really does start with snow under your feet.
If you’d like to add skiing to your winter itinerary, renting a car is essential for most of these destinations.
Below are the best places to ski in Tuscany from a wine lover’s point of view, all accessible as winter day trips or short overnight escapes from Florence.
Monte Amiata: Skiing on a Volcano Near Brunello Country
Monte Amiata is one of the most compelling winter destinations in Tuscany for wine enthusiasts.
An extinct volcano rising above southern Tuscany, Monte Amiata offers relaxed skiing combined with immediate proximity to Montalcino, Montecucco, and the Val d’Orcia—home to some of Italy’s most celebrated red wines.
Why it works for Florence-based wine travelers
A rewarding overnight extension from Florence
Ski in the morning, wine tasting in the afternoon
Close to Brunello di Montalcino producers
Volcanic soils shared by both vineyards and slopes
Monte Amiata is ideal for travelers who want to pair snow with world-class wine in a single winter itinerary.
Abetone: Tuscany’s Classic Ski Resort in the Apennines
Located in the northern Apennines, Abetone is Tuscany’s most established ski area and one of the easiest to reach from Florence.
While Abetone is better known for skiing than wine, it sits near the Garfagnana and Serchio Valley, regions rich in traditional cuisine and small-scale wine production.
Why Florence visitors enjoy Abetone
One of the closest ski resorts to Florence
Authentic mountain food paired with local IGT wines
Quiet après-ski atmosphere focused on dining, not nightlife
Abetone is perfect for those seeking a true winter day trip from Florence followed by excellent food and wine.
Doganaccia & Cutigliano: A Local Ski Escape from Florence
Less known internationally, Doganaccia and the nearby village of Cutigliano are favorites among Florentines looking for a quick winter getaway.
The slopes are modest, but the setting is authentic and relaxed.
Why it pairs well with wine tours from Florence
Easy to combine with a Florence-based itinerary
Ideal before or after a wine tour departing from the city
Local osterie serving regional Tuscan wines without pretense
This area offers a glimpse into how Florentines themselves enjoy winter—simple, seasonal, and delicious.
Zeri (Lunigiana): A Hidden Winter Destination for Curious Wine Lovers
For travelers drawn to off-the-beaten-path Tuscany, Zeri in Lunigiana offers a rare combination of snow, isolation, and forgotten wine traditions.
Though small in scale, Zeri sits in a region shaped by Ligurian and Apennine influences, where wine production remains deeply tied to landscape and heritage.
Why it appeals to wine-focused travelers
Rare grape varieties and micro-production wines
A strong sense of place and tradition
Perfect for travelers seeking discovery rather than fame
Zeri is best suited for those who see wine travel as exploration, not checklist tourism.
Why These Ski Areas Stay Non-Touristy
While large parts of Tuscany are heavily visited by international travelers, these skiing regions remain largely the domain of local Tuscans. They may not be Italy’s most famous ski destinations — and that’s precisely their charm.
If you enjoy going where the crowds don’t, eating simply and well, and pairing wine with real winter landscapes, Tuscany’s ski areas are absolutely worth discovering.
