On the peaks of perfection

Head for the mountains of South Tyrol, says Niamh Kirk, and you'll soon be skiing in style

- Niamh Kirk

Want to learn to ski effortlessly? Then head for the spectacular slopes of Italy's South Tyrol.

With impressive alpine peaks, magnificent views from all angles, and 300 sunny days a year, the northernmost part of the country, neighbouring both Austria and Switzerland, provides plenty of thrills, both on and off the pistes.

For those looking for a beautiful base to glide into after a day on the pistes, the modern and luxurious Falkensteiner Hotel in Kronplatz oozes Italian swagger.

A member of the Leading Hotels of the World group and loved by sports stars and celebrities, this five-star super-resort packs in the wow factor with fabulous facilities including a heated outdoor rooftop pool, a Finnish sauna with fabulous views, and a yoga studio to find your flow.

The rooms are spacious, well-appointed rest spots - even your ski helmet has an allocated space - and clad in wood panels to give that cosy, mountain vibe.

You also don't have to worry about lugging your ski equipment to your room, as the hotel offers secure lockers to store it all.

It's easy to reach the slopes from here with either a two-minute free shuttle to the gondola, or if you fancy stretching your legs, it is no more than a five-minute stroll.