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  • A Summer Night Full of Music and Memories

    A Summer Night Full of Music and Memories

    Last weekend, I had the chance to attend a very special concert in my hometown, Albissola Marina. The concert took place in the beautiful gardens of Villa Faraggiana and was performed by an all-female choir—which includes none other than my mom!

    This year, the entire setlist was a tribute to the iconic Swedish band ABBA. I’ll admit: ABBA isn’t exactly my go-to genre… but the performance truly surprised me. The energy, the voices, and the positive vibe were contagious. It was one of those evenings where you can’t help but smile, even if you’ve heard Dancing Queen one too many times.

    More than 400 people attended the concert, which created a great atmosphere. What impressed me the most, though, was the sound quality. Singing outdoors in a garden, as a choir, is never easy—the acoustics can be unpredictable. But they nailed it. Clear, balanced, and powerful voices filled the night air, and the audience responded with standing ovations and loud applause.

    The event had a real sense of community. Alongside friends and family, many locals came to support the choir, making the evening feel even more meaningful. I felt proud watching my mom on stage, doing what she loves and doing it so well.

    And speaking of things I love…

    Here comes a small off-topic detour: while I was still basking in the afterglow of the concert, I got news that made me equally happy—it snowed up at Plateau Rosa and Bontadini, high above Cervinia! Just a light dusting, but still. Every snowfall in summer feels magical, no matter how little.

    Of course, it won’t stop the glaciers from melting or bring back the golden days of summer skiing, but every flake is a reminder of why I care so much about the mountains. It’s not just about skiing—it’s about the emotion that comes with snow, even in July.

    Back to the concert, though—I’m planning to edit a short video recap of the event soon. It’s not every day you get to celebrate good music, community spirit, and your mom rocking the stage all in one night.

    See you soon

    Riky

  • 🇮🇹 100 Years of Stories: Celebrating Grandpa Piero’s Century of Life 🎂🌿

    🇮🇹 100 Years of Stories: Celebrating Grandpa Piero’s Century of Life 🎂🌿

    Some moments are so special that they leave a mark not just in your memory, but deep in your heart. This past week, we celebrated one of those moments — the 100th birthday of my grandfather, Pietro, or as everyone affectionately calls him, Peu. Reaching a century of life is already something extraordinary, but celebrating it surrounded by love, laughter, and legacy made it truly unforgettable.

    A Garden Full of Life and Stories 🌳❤️

    We chose to host the celebration in the garden — a place that has seen generations of our family grow, and where many memories have been shared. But this wasn’t just a typical family gathering. Dozens of people came to celebrate Grandpa Piero, not only relatives, but also longtime friends, neighbors, and even the Mayor of Albissola Marina, who joined us for the occasion.

    Seeing so many familiar faces gathered together, all united to honor my grandfather’s life, was deeply moving. Everyone came with a story to tell, a photo to show, or simply to give him a hug and a smile. It was a true celebration of community — one that reflected the impact this incredible man has had on the lives around him.

    A Life Marked by Courage and Kindness 🇮🇹🌟

    For those who don’t know, Piero (Peu) is a former partisan — a man who fought during difficult times for values he believed in, and who has lived a life of courage, simplicity, and honesty. His story is part of Italy’s story, and now, at 100 years old, he continues to inspire us with his humility and strength.

    During the celebration, the Mayor of Albissola paid tribute to him with a short speech, and even local media joined in to commemorate the event. One of the articles that came out about the celebration perfectly captured the spirit of the day. You can read it here.

    A Personal Project: Capturing His Story on Camera 🎥📖

    To make sure these memories — and above all, his voice and his thoughts — are never lost, I’ve started working on a video project: an interview with my grandfather, where he shares parts of his life and the lessons he’s learned across ten incredible decades.

    We’ve already started filming. Sometimes it’s just a short story, a smile, a memory from when he was a child… other times, he opens up about the war, about family, about love. I can already tell that this will be one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever worked on. Not just for me — but for our whole family, and for those who want to understand more about the past from someone who lived it in full.

    The Power of Legacy 🕊️

    The celebration made me think a lot about legacy — about what it means to leave something behind. Grandpa Piero hasn’t just lived 100 years; he’s filled those years with purpose, kindness, and integrity. His legacy is not made of medals or trophies, but of people — those who came to celebrate him, and those who carry a piece of his story in their hearts.

    In today’s fast world, we sometimes forget the value of listening to those who came before us. This birthday was a reminder to slow down, to ask questions, to listen. There’s so much to learn from someone who has truly lived through a century of history, challenges, and change.

    Looking Ahead with Gratitude 🌅

    As the sun went down on the garden that day, with music playing and voices laughing, I felt incredibly lucky. Lucky to have such a grandfather, lucky to share this moment with my family, and lucky to be able to capture it — not just in photos and videos, but in feelings.

    Thank you Grandpa Peu, for everything you’ve given us.
    Happy 100th birthday — and here’s to the memories we’ve made, and those still to come. 🥂

  • 🌨️ High Temperatures and High Altitude: Back on the Glacier in Cervinia

    🌨️ High Temperatures and High Altitude: Back on the Glacier in Cervinia

    This past week, I returned to Cervinia — one of my favorite places in the world — but this time, it wasn’t for the usual skiing or teaching sessions. Instead, I had the chance to experience the glacier from a completely new perspective: as part of a commercial shoot for Swiss television. And let me tell you, it was a challenge!

    When Summer Hits the Slopes ☀️🎿

    You might be thinking, “Skiing in July?” Well, yes — but skiing in summer is a different beast entirely. The Cervinia glacier remains open for a limited time during the summer months, allowing for high-altitude skiing above Plan Maison and up to Plateau Rosà. However, the biggest obstacle during this time isn’t the terrain… it’s the temperature.

    Unfortunately, this week the thermometer wasn’t on our side. Even during the night, the temperature barely dropped below +4°C, which is far too warm for the snow to refreeze properly. As a result, the snow surface didn’t compact overnight, meaning by early morning it was already soft, slushy, and difficult to manage — even more so if you’re trying to make ski turns look perfect for the camera.

    A Different Kind of Work Day 🎥

    Unlike most of my trips to the glacier, this time I wasn’t there to teach or train. Instead, I found myself in front of a film crew, lights, mics… and a lot of pressure. I had been cast to act in a television commercial for a Swiss production. I can’t share too many details just yet (TV secrets!), but I can say that it involved putting on my ski gear and playing the part of… well, myself.

    That may sound easy, but trust me — being a ski instructor in real life and acting as one on screen are two completely different things! Delivering lines while maintaining perfect ski form and dealing with inconsistent snow conditions was a real test. Still, I embraced the challenge, and I think it turned out well.

    A Familiar Face on the Glacier 🙌

    One of the highlights of this unexpected work trip was bumping into Nicola, a fellow ski instructor and someone I’m incredibly proud of. A few years ago, I helped train Nicola when he was preparing for his exams, and seeing him now working on the glacier as a certified ski instructor made me feel proud.

    There’s a special kind of satisfaction that comes from watching someone you’ve mentored succeed. Nicola’s dedication and hard work paid off, and to know I played a small part in his journey is incredibly rewarding. We snapped a quick photo together to remember the moment — a symbol of how the ski world always finds a way to bring people back together.

    Escaping the Heat 🧊➡️🔥

    While the skiing conditions weren’t ideal, one major upside of heading to the mountains was escaping the intense heat. Down in Liguria, we had been stuck in a full-blown heatwave, with temperatures hovering around 35°C every day. Being on the glacier at over 3,000 meters felt like stepping into a different world — fresher air, fewer people, and that crisp mountain breeze I had missed so much.

    Even though I wasn’t there for a typical ski trip, I soaked in every second of that cool air, the dramatic Alpine views, and the unique energy of summer skiing. And the good news? The temperatures are finally starting to drop, which means better snow conditions are just around the corner. With colder nights ahead, the snow will hopefully start to set properly again, making way for improved skiing in the coming weeks.

    What’s Next? ⛷️

    I’m back home now, still sweating a bit in the summer sun but feeling grateful for the short escape to higher altitudes. This unexpected adventure reminded me how varied and unpredictable life can be — one week I’m fishing or biking, the next I’m filming a commercial on a glacier.

    As always, I’ll keep sharing what I’m up to here on the blog, and you can follow the behind-the-scenes and daily updates on Instagram (@riccardovaraldo) — where I might just drop a sneak peek from the shoot when the time is right 😉.

    Thanks for reading, and stay tuned — new stories coming soon!

  • ⛵ Sailing, Sun & Pesto: A Day on the Ligurian Sea

    ⛵ Sailing, Sun & Pesto: A Day on the Ligurian Sea

    Every time I step onto a sailboat, I feel a special kind of freedom. The sound of the wind filling the sails, the salty breeze on my skin, and the endless blue horizon ahead — it’s pure magic. This week, I spent a full day at sea, sailing with my good friend Andrea on his boat, and it reminded me once again why I love life on the water.

    Andrea’s sailboat has become my go-to escape when I want to disconnect from the routine and reconnect with nature. It’s not a luxury yacht or a high-performance racing machine — and that’s exactly why I love it. It’s real, it’s authentic, and it gives you that raw connection with the sea that you don’t get with a motorboat. No engines, no noise — just the wind and the waves.

    Smooth Sailing at 6 Knots 🌬️🌊

    We set sail early in the morning from the port of Savona. The wind wasn’t particularly strong, but it was steady enough to give us a nice cruising speed of about 6 knots. Just enough to feel alive, to feel the boat slicing through the water with a gentle rhythm. If you’ve ever been sailing, you know the feeling: it’s meditative and exhilarating all at once.

    We didn’t have a set route — just a general plan to head toward Varigotti, one of the most beautiful coastal spots in Liguria. We wanted to take our time, enjoy the journey, and let the wind decide how fast or slow we’d get there.

    Fishing, the Slow Way 🎣🌞

    Of course, no day at sea with Andrea would be complete without a bit of fishing. We set up the trolling lines and cruised slowly, hoping to catch something fresh for lunch. And luck was on our side! A few decent-sized albacora (little tunas) took the bait, and before long we had a nice catch cooling in the icebox.

    There’s something deeply satisfying about catching your own food and cooking it right there. But this time, we saved the fish for later and opted for a Ligurian classic for lunch…

    Pasta al Pesto, the Sailor’s Fuel 🍝🌿

    Lunchtime on a boat has a special flavor — especially when you’re hungry from the wind and sun. Andrea prepared one of my all-time favorite dishes: pasta al pesto. For those who don’t know, pesto is a traditional Ligurian sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmigiano, and olive oil — simple ingredients, but full of character.

    We cooked it onboard, using the tiny kitchen (or “galley,” as sailors say), and let me tell you: nothing tastes better than pasta eaten with the view of the open sea and the scent of basil mixing with salty air. We paired it with some cold water and a few smiles — perfection.

    A Swim in Paradise 🏖️💦

    After lunch, we dropped anchor near Varigotti — a picturesque coastal village known for its turquoise waters and golden cliffs. The sun was shining, the water was warm, and it didn’t take long before we jumped in for a refreshing swim. No stress, no phones, just floating in the sea with the sun on our faces.

    It’s in moments like these that I feel most alive — not chasing speed, not chasing goals, just being in the moment.

    Back to Port, Full Sail 🏁⛵

    As the afternoon passed, we raised the sails once more and headed back toward Savona. No engines, just the wind doing its job. The boat glided smoothly, cutting through small waves, while we shared stories and talked about future adventures.

    There’s a special kind of silence that comes with sailing — not the absence of sound, but the presence of peace. It’s the silence that allows you to hear your thoughts clearly, to feel your heartbeat in sync with the motion of the sea.

    Already Counting the Days…

    By the time we docked back in Savona, the sun was dipping low, painting the sky with shades of orange and pink. I stepped off the boat tired, sun-kissed, and completely recharged. Days like this remind me how lucky I am to live in such a beautiful place, and how much joy simple things can bring: a friend’s boat, a homemade lunch, a dive into the sea.

    I already can’t wait for the next sailing trip. Until then, I’ll hold onto the memories and keep chasing that feeling of freedom.

  • 🎉 32 Candles, Summer Heat & a Bit of Sweat

    🎉 32 Candles, Summer Heat & a Bit of Sweat

    This past week was special — I celebrated my 32nd birthday! And like every year, I did it the only way I know how: with the people I love, in a place that feels like home. The party was held at a stunning beachside venue in Bergeggi, a little slice of paradise on the Ligurian coast. The best part? The place is managed by one of my dearest friends, and it made the night even more meaningful.

    We have a tradition, she and I. Being born just a few days apart, we’ve celebrated our birthdays together for as long as I can remember. Even as kids, our families — who have been friends long before we were born — would always find a way to make our shared week feel magical. And to this day, that tradition continues. Whether it’s our birthdays or Christmas, we celebrate together like we always have. There’s a comfort in that kind of consistency — in knowing some things never change, even as life moves fast.

    The party was everything I could’ve hoped for: great food, joyful toasts, sea breeze in the air, and the kind of laughter that echoes well into the night. For a moment, I forgot about training schedules, healing feet, or heat waves. I was simply present, grateful to be surrounded by people who matter.

    🥵 Summer Heat Is Here

    But once the birthday magic faded and Monday hit — reality came back hard. Summer didn’t just “arrive” this week — it exploded onto the scene. We went from spring breezes to full-blown, sweat-dripping, 30+ degree Celsius days without warning. Don’t get me wrong, I love summer. But when you’re trying to stick to your training routine, the heat adds a whole new level of difficulty.

    The gym? Like a sauna. My usual bike rides? Brutal. Even early mornings feel like midday now. But I’m not complaining — okay, maybe just a little — because I know this heat is also part of what makes summer in Liguria so unique. Long days, golden evenings, the scent of salt in the air… it’s all part of the rhythm of this season.

    🚴‍♂️ Back in the Saddle

    There is some good news though: my foot is finally starting to heal. It’s still not perfect — I wouldn’t dare walk barefoot on the sand just yet — but I’m able to cycle again and even sneak in a few light runs. Compared to a few weeks ago, this feels like a small victory. I had underestimated how long the recovery would take, but slowly and surely, I’m getting back to full form.

    Each day I push a little more. Whether it’s five more minutes on the bike or one more set at the gym, I’m building back strength — not just physically, but mentally too. Injuries are tough, especially when you’re someone who’s always on the move, but they also teach patience. And trust me, I’m still learning.

    ❤️ Grateful and Moving Forward

    So here I am — 32 years old, feeling a little older (and hopefully wiser), a little stronger, and still full of plans for the months ahead. Summer is just starting, and I know there are plenty of adventures waiting: on the water, in the mountains, and probably somewhere far from home again.

    Thank you to everyone who sent me birthday wishes, who celebrated with me, and who follows my journey week after week. I’ll keep sharing the ups, the downs, and the sweat in between. If you want to stay updated in real time, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @riccardovaraldo and on Strava.

    See you next week — and stay hydrated out there! 😅🚴‍♂️🎂

  • Waves, Friendships, and Island Vibes: My Surf Adventure in the Maldives 🌊🏝️

    Waves, Friendships, and Island Vibes: My Surf Adventure in the Maldives 🌊🏝️

    If you ask me to describe paradise, I might just start by telling you about my recent trip to the Maldives. I’ve just come back from an unforgettable vacation filled with incredible waves, pure island vibes, amazing people, and a few thrilling moments that reminded me why I love the ocean so much.

    Now I’ll tell you my surf adventure in the Maldives!

    Surfing in Dream Conditions 🏄‍♂️

    This trip was all about surfing – and wow, did the Maldives deliver. Every single day, I found myself paddling out into crystal-clear turquoise waters and riding some of the most perfect waves I’ve ever seen. Some days the swell came in just right, offering those clean, glassy faces that every surfer dreams of. Other days, the waves were bigger than expected – a bit intimidating at first, but incredibly fun once you committed to the drop.

    There were moments when the size of the waves made me hesitate. But pushing through that fear was the most rewarding part. Every ride brought adrenaline, joy, and that feeling of complete freedom you can only get on a wave. I left the water every day with sore arms and a huge smile on my face.

    Fishing in Paradise 🌿🎣

    When I wasn’t surfing, I found peace in another passion of mine: fishing. The Maldives, with its vibrant marine life and calm lagoons, turned out to be the perfect spot. I spent some early mornings and golden sunsets on the water, casting lines, sharing stories, and just enjoying the slow rhythm of island life. There’s something therapeutic about being on a boat in the middle of the Indian Ocean, far from everything, fully present in the moment.

    New Faces, Real Connections 😊🤝

    One of the biggest surprises of this trip was the people I met. From fellow surfers to locals, I had the chance to connect with amazing individuals from all over the world. Some came from as close as Liguria, others from as far away as New Zealand. Despite our different backgrounds, we were all drawn together by a shared love for the ocean and adventure.

    We spent our evenings swapping stories over fresh fish dinners, laughing under star-filled skies, and planning our dawn surf sessions. There was no need for filters or small talk – just genuine people sharing unforgettable moments. It reminded me that sometimes, the best part of traveling isn’t the destination itself, but the people you meet along the way.

    A Reminder of Why I Travel ✈️☀️

    This trip to the Maldives was everything I needed and more. After months of training, routine, and cold temperatures, escaping to a tropical island brought me balance and perspective. It recharged my body and my spirit.

    It also reminded me of why I travel: to grow, to discover, to challenge myself. Whether it’s surfing a wave that scares me, opening up to strangers who become friends, or just listening to the sound of the ocean at night, these moments are what fuel me.

    What’s Next?

    Now that I’m back, I’m already dreaming of the next adventure. But for now, I’m holding onto the salty memories, the sound of the waves crashing on the reef, and the laughter shared with people who, even if just for a moment, felt like family.

    Thanks for following my journey. If you want to see more of my travel moments, surf clips, and daily adventures, follow me on Instagram @riccardovaraldo and on Strava – same name. See you out there! 🌍🌪️

  • Discipline, Results, and a Mysterious Destination: A Week of Personal Growth 🧘‍♂️✈️

    Discipline, Results, and a Mysterious Destination: A Week of Personal Growth 🧘‍♂️✈️

    This past week has been all about dedication, consistency, and a touch of mystery. With the ski season behind me and summer creeping in, I’ve shifted my focus to strengthening my body, staying disciplined with my routine, and… preparing for a trip I’m incredibly excited about. But more on that later 😉

    The Plank Challenge 💪

    I’ve decided to challenge myself with a simple but demanding daily exercise: the plank. I started with something manageable and every single day I’ve been adding 5 more seconds to my hold time. Today, I reached 1 minute and 40 seconds — and it felt great! 🥵

    The plank is such a deceptively tough exercise. At first, it seems easy — you’re just staying still, right? But after a while, you feel every muscle in your body screaming, and it becomes as much a mental challenge as a physical one. I’m already noticing better core stability, and I’m sure this will pay off both in the gym and next winter on the slopes. My goal is to keep this streak going and see how far I can push it. The journey is just beginning.

    Diet on Track 🥗

    Another big win from the past couple of weeks is my nutrition. I’ve been eating clean, keeping things balanced, and being mindful of portions. And the results speak for themselves: I’ve lost 2 kilograms in just two weeks.

    What’s been working for me is not following a strict diet, but instead finding balance. Plenty of fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and cutting out most processed foods. I’m also keeping my meals simple and nutritious. This way, I don’t feel like I’m missing out, but I’m still seeing progress. Losing a bit of weight makes everything feel lighter — physically and mentally.

    Big News: I’m Going Somewhere Hot! ☀️

    Here’s the exciting part: this Friday night I’ll be boarding a flight to a very warm destination. I won’t reveal the exact place yet — that’s for my Instagram followers to discover (follow me @riccardovaraldo if you’re curious 👀). But I’ll give you a little hint: it’s in Asia, it’s going to be very hot, and I can’t wait to explore.

    The trip will last until the 16th, so I might not be able to post next week’s blog article. But I promise to make up for it with a full travel story once I’m back — with pictures, highlights, impressions, and maybe even a few surprises.

    This will be my first real break after months of intense skiing, training, and working. It feels good to take time for myself, especially now that I’ve gotten into a healthier rhythm with my body. I’m curious to see how I’ll manage my routine while traveling, but I plan to stay active, eat well (as much as the local cuisine allows 😅), and soak up every second of the experience.

    Staying Active, Staying Focused

    Even though I’m heading off for an adventure, I’m not letting go of my goals. The plank challenge continues — I’ll find a few minutes every day, no matter where I am, to stick to my plan. And when I get back, I’ll jump straight into the next phase of training, with new energy and hopefully a nice tan 🌞

    This journey — both physical and personal — is about discipline, passion, and finding balance. Whether I’m on the slopes, on a bike, in the gym, or discovering a new corner of the world, I want to live it all fully and consciously.

    Stay tuned for the next article — it’ll be a hot one, in every sense of the word 🔥

  • From Cycling to Tuna Fishing: A Little Pause with Big Catch

    From Cycling to Tuna Fishing: A Little Pause with Big Catch

    It’s not the post I was hoping to write this week, but hey — that’s life! 🚲💥 For the past two weeks, I’ve been dealing with a nasty plantar wart right under the arch of my foot. Yeah, one of those painful ones that makes even walking uncomfortable, let alone pushing hard on bike pedals. I really thought it would heal faster, but unfortunately, it’s still sore and annoying, and it’s keeping me off the saddle for now.

    For someone like me who loves road cycling, especially those quick 50–60 km loops that give me my two-hour dose of adrenaline and fresh air, being sidelined is frustrating. Cycling, for me, is more than just a workout — it’s a way to stay connected to nature, to train my legs during the off-season, and honestly, to clear my head. It also complements skiing beautifully: those long efforts uphill are amazing for endurance, and the control you learn while cornering downhill really translates to better edge control when skiing. So yes, not cycling sucks. 😅

    But luckily… Mother Nature gave me a break. No waves on the forecast 🌊✖️ — so at least I’m not suffering from the surf withdrawal too! If the sea had been pumping, it would’ve been torture not to be able to ride those waves. In a way, I think the sea is cutting me some slack. 😄

    Still, I can’t just sit around. So, I’ve kept up my gym routine 🏋️‍♂️ and found a new-old passion: fishing. Being out at sea, breathing in that salty air, waiting for a strike — it’s incredibly calming and grounding. It’s also given me a chance to reconnect with the sea in a different way. I grew up around boats and lines and reels, so it feels natural to be out there again.

    🎣 And last week? I had a solid win: I landed a beautiful albakora (aka little tuna) weighing in at over 3 kg! 💪🐟
    Not the biggest catch of my life, sure, but definitely one of the most satisfying. I was out early in the morning, no wind, flat calm waters. You know that stillness when the ocean feels like glass? That. I dropped the lure and boom — after a short but intense fight, I pulled in this shiny, strong little beast. Here’s the photo 📸 — and no, it’s not Photoshop!

    Moments like that remind me that even when life doesn’t go as planned (no bike, no surf), there’s always something to appreciate — or to hunt 😉. I’ve always believed in making the most out of what you’ve got, and this minor injury is just another opportunity to explore something different.

    I know I’ll be back on the bike soon enough. Hopefully the wart calms down soon — I’m doing all I can to speed up healing. Until then, I’m staying active in every way I can. If you’re curious or want to keep track of when I’m back on two wheels, feel free to follow me on Strava — my nickname is @riccardovaraldo. 🚴‍♂️🔥

    In the meantime, thanks for following along my not-so-linear sports journey. I’ll keep you posted — whether it’s from the saddle, the gym, or the fishing boat.

    Stay moving, stay positive —
    Riky

  • From Snow to Saddle: Why Road Cycling Is A Super Summer Sport 🚴‍♂️❄️

    From Snow to Saddle: Why Road Cycling Is A Super Summer Sport 🚴‍♂️❄️

    From Snow to Saddle: Why Road Cycling Is A Super Summer Sport 🚴‍♂️❄️

    When ski season winds down and the snow begins to melt, many people pack away their gear and wait patiently for winter to return. Not me. As soon as the skis are back in the garage, another passion takes over — road cycling. 🚲

    There’s something magical about riding a road bike. It’s simple, silent, and deeply personal. Just me, the bike, the road, and the rhythm of my legs turning the cranks. It’s a different kind of mountain adventure, but one that gives me the same sense of freedom and connection to nature 🌄. While winter gives me the mountains in white, summer gifts me the roads in green 🌿.

    I’ve always loved cycling, but over the years it’s become much more than a hobby — it’s my favorite off-season training 💪. Why? Because it keeps me fit, clears my mind, and, perhaps most importantly, it’s incredibly complementary to skiing 🎿.

    The muscles we use on the bike — especially the quads, hamstrings, and glutes — are exactly the ones that skiers need strong and responsive. Every climb on the bike is a strength session for the legs 🔥; every descent a mental focus exercise. 🧠

    More than that, there’s a very specific connection between cycling and skiing technique: when you take a corner on a bike, you learn to lean in, manage balance, and control the outside leg — exactly what we do when carving down a ski slope ⛷️. When I’m descending a curvy road at speed, I can’t help but think how similar it feels to a clean GS turn on hard-packed snow.

    Nowadays, I typically go for shorter, more focused rides — around 50 to 60 kilometers — which means about two hours or a bit more of riding ⏱️. It’s the sweet spot for me: long enough to get a proper workout, short enough to fit into a busy day.

    I used to do much longer rides in the past — 100 km or more wasn’t unusual — and while I still love the idea of long, slow days in the saddle, lately I prefer a faster rhythm ⚡. Maybe one day I’ll find the spark again to go for those epic full-day adventures. For now, though, I enjoy the intensity and efficiency of my current sessions.

    Cycling is also fantastic for the mind. It’s meditative, especially when I’m out early in the morning or riding through quiet forest roads 🌲. It’s time for myself — to think, breathe, or just switch off. As a ski instructor, I spend most of my winter talking, teaching, guiding. On the bike, I find my own pace, my own silence.

    One of the best parts? The landscape. Whether it’s riding up to a mountain pass or along the valley floor surrounded by wildflowers 🌸, cycling lets me experience the Alps in a completely different way. No lifts, no crowds — just leg power and the sound of tires on tarmac. The same mountains I ski in winter, I ride in summer. And that, to me, is incredibly special 💫.

    If you’re a skier and haven’t tried road cycling yet, I can’t recommend it enough. Not only will it keep your legs strong for the next season, but it will also sharpen your awareness, balance, and endurance. It’s the perfect cross-training — and it makes you appreciate winter even more when it comes back around 🔄❄️.

    Curious about my rides? I share them regularly on Strava, where you can find me as @riccardovaraldo 📲. Maybe you’ll get inspired to hop on your bike and see where the road takes you!

    Because in the end, whether it’s skis or pedals, it’s all about the ride — and the joy of movement 🚵‍♂️🎿

    See you on two wheels… or two skis.

    – Riky

  • 🌼 Spring Skiing in Cervinia: What to Expect This May

    🌼 Spring Skiing in Cervinia: What to Expect This May

    Spring Skiing in Cervinia: What to Expect This May

    It’s May — flowers are blooming, bikes are back on the road, and beach towels are making their first appearances… but up here in Cervinia, winter isn’t quite ready to say goodbye. If you’re like me and not quite done with ski season yet, you’re in luck: spring skiing in Cervinia kicks off again from May 5th, 2025, with a reduced but still very skiable area open for all the snow lovers out there.

    So, what can you expect if you’re planning a late-season trip?

    🎿 What Slopes and Lifts Will Be Open?

    Even though it’s technically the start of the off-season, there’s still plenty of snow up high, and that means a good number of runs are staying open:

    • Pista 6 and 46 will be groomed and open, with return skiing available all the way down to Plan Maison, the spring skiing hub.
    • The Bontadini chairlift will operate daily from 9:00 to 14:45.
    • The Breuil-Cervinia – Plateau Rosà cable cars are also running, giving access to the spectacular slope 7, which reaches up to Cime Bianche Laghi. This area will be skiable until 15:00.

    📅 On selected dates — May 9–11 and May 16–18 — the Baby La Vieille skilift will be open too, along with slope 8 bis, from 8:30 to 16:30. A great bonus for those looking for a few extra runs on the weekend!

    ❄️ What About the Swiss Side?

    Conditions permitting, the Swiss glacier section (Trockener Steg and the Furggsattel chairlift) will also be open. This area usually maintains excellent snow quality in May and offers that unique experience of summer skiing with stunning Alpine views.

    💶 Summer Skipass Prices – May 2025

    Spring skiing also means better value. From May 5th until the Italian side closes, Cervinia runs on a special summer season skipass price list.

    ✅ Skipass Prices – Consecutive Days

    DaysAdultSenior / YoungJunior
    1 Day€63.00€55.50€31.50
    2 Days€121.00€106.50€60.50
    3 Days€174.00€153.00€87.00
    4 Days€222.00€195.00€111.00
    5 Days€264.50€233.00€132.50
    6 Days€302.50€266.00€151.00

    🔁 Skipass Prices – Non-Consecutive Days

    DaysAdultSenior / YoungJunior
    2 Days€123.50€108.50€61.50
    3 Days€181.50€159.50€90.50
    4 Days€237.00€208.50€118.50
    5 Days€290.00€255.00€145.00
    6 Days€340.00€299.50€170.00

    🧒 Baby (born after 31/10/2016): ski free with a paying adult
    🎉 Over 80s (born before 01/11/1944): ski completely free!
    🆔 All discounted categories must show valid ID at the ticket office.

    🌞 My Take on Spring Skiing

    Spring skiing in Cervinia has a vibe of its own. The snow might be a bit softer, but the sun is stronger, the lines are shorter, and there’s something magical about carving down slopes in just a light jacket — or even in a t-shirt some days!

    Personally, I always love this time of year. It’s more relaxed, more social, and it feels like a reward for those of us who just can’t get enough of the mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just want to extend your season one more time, Cervinia in May delivers.

    📲 Stay in Touch!

    If you’re curious to see more behind-the-scenes from Cervinia or just follow along my spring adventures — from ski slopes to road bike rides — make sure to follow me on Instagram:
    👉 @riccardovaraldo

    And don’t miss out on the weekly vlog on my YouTube channel — in Italian, but with subtitles available!

    That’s all for now — get your skis ready, throw on some sunscreen, and I’ll see you on the slopes (or online)!
    Next week, new updates as always — between Tuesday and Wednesday!

    Cheers,
    Riky 🎿

  • Surfing the Rain and Waiting for Summer

    Surfing the Rain and Waiting for Summer

    he weather lately has been far from summer vibes—cloudy skies and scattered rain showers seem to be the theme of these days. But hey, not all is lost!
    As you can see from the photo, I’m using this time to surf every chance I get. Wet suit on, board under my feet, and salt water in my hair… there’s still a lot of fun to be had—even under grey skies.

    I’m still staying consistent with my diet, but to be honest, the scale isn’t rewarding me yet 😅
    But I’m not giving up—consistency always wins in the long run.

    Meanwhile, in Cervinia, from Plan Maison and above, it’s snowing again! Yes, in May! Looks like summer is in no rush to show up in the Alps, which makes me smile—because deep down, I never really get tired of snow.

    Back home in Liguria, I’m enjoying the gym sessions and the first bike rides of the season.
    I’ll admit it—getting back on the bike after a long winter takes effort. The legs are complaining, but it’s a good kind of struggle.
    One ride at a time, the shape will come back.

    That’s it for now—thanks as always for following along. I’ll be back next week with a new blog post, as usual between Tuesday and Wednesday.

    Catch you soon,
    —Riky

  • A Fresh Look for Summer: New Haircut, Big Plans

    A Fresh Look for Summer: New Haircut, Big Plans

    Just a week has passed since I returned home to Liguria, and things are already in full swing! First of all—you probably noticed the new haircut 😉
    I felt like it was time for a change: something lighter, fresher, and definitely more practical for the hot summer days ahead. It feels great!

    Life back home is treating me well. After a long and intense winter season, it’s refreshing to slow down just a bit and enjoy everything this region has to offer. Even though it’s only been a few days, I’ve already packed in a lot—and to make sure you don’t miss anything, make sure you follow me on Instagram: @riccardovaraldo. That’s where I post behind-the-scenes moments from my everyday life.

    And there’s more: I’ve officially launched my weekly vlog on YouTube! 🎥
    It’s currently only in Italian, so if you don’t speak the language, just turn on the subtitles. Every week I share a glimpse into my off-season life—from workouts to local adventures and everything in between.

    Speaking of off-season… not everything is sunshine and spritz. This winter I gained a few extra kilos (thanks, raclette and polenta!). So starting this Monday, I’m officially back on a clean diet. And to support the effort, I’ve also resumed gym training three times a week and got back on my road bike!
    I’ve only done one ride so far, but my weekly goal is at least two rides, ideally three. It feels so good to be moving again and chasing new goals—even in the off-season.

    That’s it for now, friends. Stay tuned for next week’s blog post—coming, as usual, between Tuesday and Wednesday. Thanks for following my journey, both on and off the slopes!

    Catch you soon,
    Riky