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A leading Italian consumer association are sounding the alarm over what they describe as entirely unreasonable cost hikes for ski passes this winter season, cautioning that alpine sports could become a luxury reserved for affluent individuals.

Significant Cost Rises Across Italy

From the majestic Alps and stunning Dolomite mountains in the northern areas to the slopes of Abruzzo, prices are set to rise by as much as 40% compared to 2021 levels, according to recent analysis.

The prestigious Dolomiti Superski pass, which provides entry to all 12 resorts in the premium Dolomite area, will now set visitors back €86 per day this season. In the popular Abruzzo resort, a daily ski pass is projected to hit €60, following substantial visitor surges during the previous winter.

Annual Ticket Prices and Supplementary Charges

Meanwhile, seasonal ski passes will range from €755 per adult in the Abruzzo region to as much as €1,800 in the northern Aosta area.

The expense of hiring winter sports gear has also increased, along with lodging costs and restaurant prices throughout alpine destinations.

Consumer Group President Cites Unjustified Increases

The consumer association president, heading the consumer protection group, stated that the cost rises—which operators blame on higher energy costs, resort maintenance, and demand for better equipment—were completely unjustified and not acceptable.

"Both because inflation in Italy are under control and utility costs, which had increased expenses for mountain facility managers in 2022, have returned to normal," Melluso noted.

He added that prices have now reached levels where budget-conscious visitors are being forced to abandon their traditional settimana bianca, or winter vacation, completely.

Tourism Decline and Broader Context

He noted a significant drop in mountain tourism during the current winter period, with 1 million fewer Italians visiting ski resorts compared to the prior season due to increasing expenses.

Even with these hikes, Italy remains a more affordable destination for skiing enthusiasts in the European region compared to neighboring Switzerland, France, and Austrian locations.

International Event Background

The increasing worry over skiing costs comes as the nation gets ready to host the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics between February 6 and 22. Italy's foreign minister, the foreign affairs official, announced on Friday that Italy had presented a plan to the United Nations calling for a "worldwide ceasefire" during the global competition.

"Through the Winter Games we must also send a peaceful communication and conversation... to stop warfare during the Olympics," he declared.