Prali

According to the figures provided by the resort, the ski area offers approximately 25 km of alpine ski runs, extending from the valley floor at 1,450 metres to the 2,510-metre Bric Rond. The vertical drop of more than 1,000 metres is considerable for a resort of this size and allows skiing in different environments: from wooded trails in the lower section to the open, panoramic terrain at higher elevations.

The ski area is served primarily by the two fixed-grip two-seater chairlifts, Malzat–Pian Alpet and Pian Alpet–Bric Rond, supplemented by the ski lifts and magic carpet in the beginners’ area. The lifts are functional but overall traditional and not particularly fast: Prali focuses more on the quality of its terrain, its vertical drop and its mountain atmosphere than on rapid connections.

The runs are mainly of intermediate and upper-intermediate difficulty and are particularly appealing to intermediate and expert skiers. The best-known trail is the Gigante, a technical and challenging run that also reflects the resort’s racing tradition. There are also easier trails and an area for first steps on snow near the village, but skiers who already have good command of their skis are probably the visitors who will appreciate the entire ski area most.

One of Prali’s strengths is freeriding. The mountain’s shape offers slopes with different aspects, open valleys and descents through the larch trees, in several cases accessible directly from the lifts. Off-piste routes should naturally be tackled only in favourable snow conditions, with suitable training and safety equipment; those unfamiliar with the area are advised to hire a mountain guide.

The altitude and favourable exposure of the upper section generally help preserve the snow, and in the most favourable seasons Prali can offer spring skiing until late April or even May. The resort remains small, and its accommodation and après-ski offering cannot compare with those of Piedmont’s large ski areas, but its peaceful setting, generally affordable prices and absence of mass tourism are precisely part of its appeal.

For cross-country skiing, the valley has a trail crossing meadows, forests and hamlets between Ghigo and Villa: the municipality indicates a total of 11 km groomed for both classic and skating techniques, of which 2.5 km are FISI-approved. The winter offering is completed by snowshoeing, ski touring and skating.

Prali is also popular during the summer. The chairlifts make it easier to reach the Conca dei Tredici Laghi, a plateau dotted with lakes, former military shelters and panoramic trails overlooked by Mount Cournour. The area offers hiking routes of varying difficulty, trails connected with Waldensian history and the Glorious Return, a bike park served by the lifts and an adventure park. A visit to the valley can also be rounded off with Scopriminiera, the museum route leading into the heart of the historic talc mines of Val Germanasca.