🔗 Share this article Italy's Watchdog Slams Ski Pass Price Hikes as Completely Unjustified A leading Italian consumer association are raising alarms over what they describe as entirely unreasonable price increases for ski passes this winter season, warning that alpine sports could become an exclusive privilege for the wealthy. Substantial Price Increases Throughout the Country Across the Alpine regions and breathtaking Dolomites in the northern areas to the slopes of Abruzzo, prices are poised to increase by as much as 40% compared to 2021 levels, according to fresh research. The prestigious Dolomiti Superski pass, which grants access to all 12 resorts in the premium Dolomite area, will now set visitors back €86 per day during the current winter. In Roccaraso, a single-day lift ticket is expected to reach €60, after experiencing significant overcrowding last season. Annual Ticket Prices and Supplementary Charges At the same time, seasonal ski passes will vary between €755 per adult in the Abruzzo region to as much as €1,800 in the Aosta valley. The cost of renting ski equipment has also increased, along with lodging costs and restaurant prices throughout mountain resorts. Consumer Group President Points to Unreasonable Hikes Gabriele Melluso, heading the watchdog organization, stated that the price increases—which operators blame on higher energy costs, resort maintenance, and requests for superior gear—were completely unjustified and unacceptable. "Particularly since inflation in Italy are under control and utility costs, which had raised operational costs for ski resort operators in 2022, have returned to normal," he explained. He added that prices have climbed to points where budget-conscious visitors are being compelled to skip their traditional settimana bianca, or ski holiday, altogether. Tourism Decline and Broader Context He noted a sharp decline in mountain tourism during the current winter period, with a million fewer domestic visitors visiting ski resorts compared to the prior season due to rising costs. Even with these hikes, Italy remains a cheaper option for winter sports fans in the European region compared to neighboring Switzerland, French destinations, and Austrian locations. Olympic Context The growing concern over winter sports expenses comes as the country prepares to host the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics between February 6 and 22. The nation's top diplomat, Antonio Tajani, recently stated that Italy had presented a plan to the United Nations urging a "worldwide ceasefire" during the international event. "With Milan Cortina we must also send a peaceful communication and dialogue... to stop warfare during the Olympics," he declared.