The fascinating history of skiing in Limone Piemonte
The Riserva Bianca of Limone Piemonte is one of the most famous ski resorts in the Italian Alps, with over 80 km of slopes for all levels.
What is the Riserva Bianca of Limone Piemonte and why is it so important for skiing?
The Riserva Bianca of Limone Piemonte is one of the most famous ski resorts in the Italian Alps. It is known for its over 80 km of slopes, suitable for all levels: from beginners who want to learn in peace to more experienced skiers looking for technical and fun slopes.
How many ski lifts are there in Limone Piemonte and how does the ski area work?
The area is served by seventeen modern and efficient lifts. These lifts allow for quick movement between the various slopes without long waits, making the skiing experience very enjoyable.
Does Limone Piemonte only offer downhill skiing?
No. In addition to alpine skiing, there is a modern snowpark for snowboarders and freestyle lovers, and about 5 km of trails dedicated to cross-country skiing. It is therefore a complete destination for snow lovers.
Why is the Riserva Bianca suitable for both beginners and experts?
Because it offers easy slopes for those who want to learn and technical slopes for those who love challenges. Every skier can find the ideal path for their level.
When was the relationship between Limone Piemonte and skiing born?
The bond between Limone and skiing has over a century of history. It all started towards the end of the 1800s.
How did the first skis arrive in Limone Piemonte?
In 1896, Adolfo Kind, a Swiss engineer living in Turin, brought a pair of skis into his living room. This novelty attracted curiosity and interest. Limone, well connected to Turin by train, was one of the first Italian alpine resorts to see people skiing on its mountains.
Who were the first skiers on the mountains of Limone Piemonte?
Among the first to use skis were the soldiers of the Alpine Corps. They quickly became interested in the new technique because it allowed them to move more easily on the snow.
What did the Alpini do in Limone Piemonte?
The Alpini created a special unit called “Alpini Skiatori”. Here in Limone, they trained and also organized competitions. One of the first documented races took place on March 3, 1907, on Monte Vecchio: teams of soldiers went up and down with skis to retrieve a flag.
When was the first ski club in Limone Piemonte founded?
In 1915, the first ski club was founded, but World War I slowed down all development. Only in the 1920s did Limone return to expand as a tourist and ski destination.
Was Limone Piemonte already famous in the 1920s?
Yes. Even then, it attracted illustrious guests such as the Italian royal family and the Grimaldi of Monaco. This special relationship with the Principality continues to this day.
When did the first ski lifts appear in Limone Piemonte?
The first ski lift dates back to 1937. It was a simple and almost artisanal system, nicknamed “slittone”. It allowed skiers to overcome about 700 meters of elevation between the Colle di Tenda and the “Tre Amis” refuge without effort.
Why was the first ski lift so important for Limone Piemonte?
Because it marked the beginning of the winter tourism era. Before, skiers had to walk uphill with skis on their feet. With the lift, skiing became more accessible and fun.
What happened during World War II?
The war halted all development. All projects were suspended, and it was necessary to wait for the end of the conflict to resume growth.
When did ski development resume in Limone Piemonte?
In 1948, the single-seater lift of Cros was inaugurated, the first aerial lift in Southern Piedmont. In just fourteen minutes, it overcame an elevation of 450 meters.
Was the Cros lift expanded?
Yes. In 1952, a second section was added, making it the longest lift in Italy.
What other lifts were inaugurated in the following years?
At Christmas 1958, the Sole lift began operating, which directly connected the town to the ski area. In the 1960s, the first ski lifts also arrived.
Why were the 1970s important for Limone Piemonte?
Because winter tourism was growing rapidly. In 1973, the Sole lift became a two-seater and new lifts were added, such as the two-seater “Alpe di Limonetto” and the ski lift “Pian del Leone”.
What was born thanks to these new lifts?
The Riserva Bianca ski area was born, with connected slopes and a single ticket. The first mountain restaurants also appeared, making the experience even more enjoyable.
How did the Riserva Bianca evolve in the 1990s?
In the 1990s, a modernization period began. In the Sole area, the two ski lifts “Laghetti 1-2” were replaced by the four-seater lift “Alpetta”, one of the first lifts with automatic coupling technology.
Who managed the lifts during that period?
L.I.F.T., a new company born from the merger of two previous entities. It was crucial for the relaunch of the ski resort.
Did the Municipality of Limone Piemonte support the development of the ski resort?
Yes. The municipal administration played a fundamental role, especially thanks to the funds available during the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin.
What modern lifts were built thanks to these investments?
Several four-seater lifts were built, such as “Cabanaira”, “Pian del Leone-Pancani”, “Belvedere”, “Col di Tenda” and “Carosello”. The two-seater “Limonetto-Pernante” was also built.
What is the most modern lift built in recent years?
The eight-seater cable car “Campo Principe-Laghetti”, dedicated to the memory of Severino Bottero. It takes skiers and snowboarders directly from the town center to the ski area.
Why is the history of skiing in Limone Piemonte so fascinating for tourists?
Because it allows discovering how a small alpine village became one of the most important ski destinations in the Maritime Alps, thanks to passion, innovation, and tradition.
