The ski season in Italy lasts until mid-March, which means you’ve got a whole lot of time to coordinate a decent trip to the slopes! The selection of ski resorts in Italy is longer than most ski runs, but four locations seem to pop up on skiing “top ten” lists that combine great powder, exciting runs (regardless of your skill level) coupled with stunning scenery. What more could you ask for? Take notes and then get ready to wax your skis…you’re gonna need them!
Courmayeur (1224 meters). They don’t call Courmayer the “Pearl of the Alps” for nothing! Courmayeur is at the top of my list and after a visit it’ll be at the top of yours as well. Picture this: ice-capped peaks that hover 4000 meters about your head, 60 kilometers of slopes ranging from the simplest bunny slope to the descents that’ll challenge even the most skilled downhill racer. 40 slopes that are integrated right into the sides of Monte Bianco. Courmayer is one of THE places to go if hitting the slopes ranks high on your winter to do list. Thanks to a variety of skiing terrain and creature comforts. Not to mention its historical importance (since 1850, Courmayeur has been the home of the Alpine Guides – legendary explorers and lifesavers who live in the shadows of Monte Bianco. Courmayeur is kept in pristine condition year-round but especially during the peak skiing season — which fortunately lasts at least another two months. Check out courmayeur for travel information and great links on room and board.
Next up is La Salle (1001 meters). Often referred to as the “Doorway to Monte Bianco” and an area ideal for Alpine skiing and trekking excursions. Situated at the entrance of the Mont Blanc Valley, La Salle dominates the valley of the Valdigne. For those who love peaceful treks in the mountains, there is a choice of itineraries large enough to suit everyone’s needs, which enables you to get closer to the uncontaminated mountain environment and to admire spectacular views. During the winter season there are numerous alpine skiing itineraries and excursions using snowshoes. In the local villages you can check out the historic ruins including the Châtelard castle, and the tower of Ecours. In the Romanesque style church of Sant’Orso at Derby are preserved two medieval icons and a fourth century crucifix; close to the church there are three old towers. Places to visit are the Ethnographic Museum at Cheverel and the parish museum of sacred art in La Salle. The enogastronomic tradition of La Salle is rich and varied; the famous wine “Blanc de Morgex et de La Salle” is produced here as well (but more on that later).
In the number three spot is Pre-Saint Didier (1000 meters). Known for the l’Orrido the deep valley formed eons ago by in the Dora di Verney and one of the most spectacular sights in the Valley d’Aosta. Pre-Saint Didier is in the extreme NW corner of Italy, in region and province of Valle d’Aosta. 5 miles SE of French border (by road). 12 miles S of Mont Blanc tunnel. Situated in a narrow, steep-sided valley running S to N at the confluence of 2 streams: Rutor, descending from the glacier of the same name, and Verney, flowing from a mountain lake; these go on to form La Thuile River. The surrounding mountains are mostly bare rock or covered in stands of pine trees. Views of Mont Blanc and Matterhorn from the slopes. Market/Suitability: Will suit most types wanting good, uncrowded skiing in a fairly quiet, low-key resort. Mixture of nationalities including Italian, French, British and Scandinavian. Many groups delivered by tour coaches. Something for all skiing levels, although probably slightly better for intermediate and advanced skiers. Free miniclub for families with young children. There are a dozen or so hotels, mainly in the 2 and 3-star category, mostly small, family run and offering B&B only.
The last site on my list is Murex (1300 meters) and has less to do with skiing but more to do with wine! Only a few kilometers from the trendy alpine resort area of Courmayeur, at an altitude of nearly 1300 meters the tiny town of Morgex boasts vineyards that produce “the highest white wine in Europe”. Vin de Morgex, also called “glacier wine”, is produced at an altitude of 1300 meters, at the foot of Monte Bianco in the heart of Valle d’Aosta. This is the highest region from which wine is produced in all of Europe Morgex is 27 kilometers from Aosta, on the strada nazionale n° 26 which leads to the Monte Bianco tunnel. The nearest international airport is Torino Caselle, connected to Aosta by Highway A5. For travelers looking for accommodations with a degree of charm or sophistication, or for an outstanding restaurant, you need to go into Courmayeur, which is about 10 kilometers from Morgex. There is, however, one excellent hotel with a panoramic view in the small neighboring town of La Salle.The Mont Blanc Hotel Village (La Croisette, 36 tel. +39-165-864111, fax +39-165-864119)
So there you go — four of the best skiing locations you ever set eyes (or skis on) and all within close proximity of one another! For more information on this area check the AC archive for other articles I’ve written on Italy skiing.
In the meantime, have a safe trip, keep your ski pass handy and don’t forget to send a postcard!
By: Gary Picariello
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