If you regularly head on skiing holidays across Europe and beyond, you may be used to a certain style of accommodation and setting.
The Italian Alps offer many of the facilities that you would associate with ski resorts elsewhere, but there are a number of little touches that you may find that make skiing in Italy a cut above the rest.
The Aosta Valley The Aosta Valley is home to some of the most popular and exciting ski slopes and resorts in the country - and it can claim to be the setting in which the highest mountain in Europe lies.
Mont Blanc casts an imposing and fascinating figure on the Italian Alps' skyline, as well as providing people on skiing holidays with a host of options to enjoy the white stuff.
In addition to Mont Blanc, people on skiing holidays to this part of Italy can enjoy the sights of Matterhorn and Monte Rosa.
Some of the major towns in the valley include Aosta, Donnas, Saint Vincent and Courmayeur.
Located in a position where Switzerland, France and a region called Piedmont are its borders, the Aosta Valley is an ideal retreat for holidaymakers.
Courmayeur The key to any successful ski resort is good snow - and Courmayeur can almost guarantee snowfall throughout the ski season.
As well as the ski slopes in close proximity to the town, there are plenty of other things to keep you entertained.
Ski resorts often lose their sense of national identity, but here there is a distinct Italian feel.
Small cafes and quality restaurants are scattered across the villages, and some are set on beautiful cobbled streets.
It is sure to make for a relaxing evening setting after a day of fun and games on the slopes.
Ice skating facilities, curling games, swimming and snowshoe walking can also be accessed if you find a chalet deal and opt to stay in this part of Italy.
Moreover, the area's ski school will provide novices with all the equipment and learning they require to be successful surfers of the snow.
Roman remains Staying in Aosta is like a step back in time, due to the Roman walls and various artefacts from the era that can still be viewed to this day.
This part of the Italian Alps may prove to be an ideal option for those who want to mix their skiing holiday with a bit of culture.
Why Italy? Tourists often head to Italy to spend time on the beach or by the lakes, or to explore various cities brimming with art and culture.
However, with its plethora of slopes and scenic winter resorts, it is easy to see why it is a popular choice with people who enjoy their skiing holidays too.