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A leading Italian consumer association are raising alarms over what they describe as completely unjustified price increases for lift tickets this winter season, warning that skiing could become a luxury reserved for the wealthy.

Substantial Price Increases Across Italy

Across the Alpine regions and stunning Dolomite mountains in the northern areas to the slopes of Abruzzo, prices are poised to increase by up to 40% compared to prices from three years ago, according to recent analysis.

The prestigious Dolomiti Superski pass, which provides entry to all 12 resorts in the exclusive Dolomites, will now cost skiers €86 per day during the current winter. In the popular Abruzzo resort, a daily ski pass is expected to reach €60, following substantial visitor surges last season.

Seasonal Pass Costs and Supplementary Charges

Meanwhile, seasonal ski passes will vary between €755 per adult in Roccaraso to upwards of €1,800 in the Aosta valley.

The cost of renting ski equipment has similarly risen, along with lodging costs and dining expenses throughout mountain resorts.

Watchdog Leader Cites Unjustified Increases

The consumer association president, leading the watchdog organization, emphasized that the price increases—which operators blame on increased utility expenses, resort maintenance, and requests for superior gear—were completely unjustified and unacceptable.

"Both because Italian inflation rates are managed effectively and energy tariffs, which had increased expenses for ski resort operators in 2022, have returned to normal," he explained.

The president further stated that prices have now reached levels where budget-conscious visitors are being compelled to skip their traditional settimana bianca, or ski holiday, altogether.

Tourism Decline and Broader Context

Melluso observed a significant drop in mountain tourism during the current winter period, with 1 million fewer Italians hitting the slopes compared to the previous year due to increasing expenses.

Even with these hikes, Italy remains a cheaper option for winter sports fans in the European region compared to neighboring Switzerland, French destinations, and Austria.

International Event Background

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, the foreign affairs official, recently stated that Italy had submitted a proposal to the United Nations urging a "worldwide ceasefire" during the international event.

"With Milan Cortina we must similarly convey a peaceful communication and conversation... to stop warfare during the Olympics," Tajani emphasized.