Alpine escapes and Olympic thrills in Cortina

If snow, slopes, and alpine air are more your scene, head for Cortina d’Ampezzo, where the mountain events will take centre stage - skiing, snowboarding, and the heart-stopping bobsleigh runs that will echo through the Dolomites. Here, the pace slows a little, and life revolves around crisp mornings, open-air celebrations, and long, delicious dinners by the fire. The mountain lodges and boutique hotels have that perfect balance of comfort and style, like a glass of red wine, a steaming bowl of pasta, and snow falling softly outside your window.

And if you can’t decide between the city and the mountains? A split stay might be your golden ticket with a few days of high-energy Olympic fever in Milan, followed by a retreat to the mountains for a slower, scenic finish to your trip. It’s the best way to experience both sides of the games.

A taste of the season

Winter here is made for food lovers. In Milan, expect rich truffle risottos, warming bowls of risotto alla milanese, and a glass of Franciacorta to toast the day’s winners. Up in Cortina, the menus shift to mountain comfort: creamy polenta, slow-cooked stews, and apple strudel shared by the fire. You’ll still find panettone in bakery windows at this time of year and baristas serving espresso with a grin.