Livigno obtained special tax privileges as early as in 16th century due to tough conditions the habitants were exposed in the high mountain settlement. The severe weather left its trace even in the name of the town, Livigno, which derives from old expression 'vinea et vinerola' which refers to the German word meaning ‘avalanche’, a constant danger in the area.
The weather conditions change rather rapidly in the area and during the winter you should check which on of three roads leading to Livigno is opened, the road from Italy side leads through the Foscagno Pass (2,291 m) and two from Switzerland Forcola di Livigno (2,315 m) and the Munt La Schera tunnel.
This is common with all alpine municipalities located high above the sea level , ( Livigno lies at altitude of 1 800 m a.s.l.) but once you get there you will enjoy continuos pleasure of winter holiday.
Two sides of Livigno valley are served by two different ski areas probably better developed Livigno Mottolino and featuring slopes on high altitudes Carosello 3000.
On the Carosello side there is alo the longest run in Livigno - 3,5 km long Vetta Blesaccia with the altitude difference 980 m. Mottolino features the most difficult run 2km long from Monte Sponda, and one of the best Italian snowparks.
Both areas are covered by one skipass , and there are some other possibilities to buy combined tickets including the other ski resorts in Alta Valtellina: Bormio, Santa Caterina Valfurva, Cima Piazzi and Isolaccia.
Apres ski premises offer vas night life opportunities and - what else - shopping area.
After the creation of European community there is no customs on the borders within, and the old name 'Duty-Free' has been changed to 'Tax-Free' as the region has the permission to sell the goods without the Italian VAT tax. The prices about 20 % cheaper than elsevhere attract not only the visitors but also the local people from the area who came here to buy food or petrol.
