Make an enquiry about a ski break to Courmayeur.
the resort
Forming part of the Aosta Valley near the French and Swiss borders, Courmayeur exudes a classically Italian ethos and has retained much of its old village charm. In addition to stunning alpine scenery and incredible views of Mont Blanc, Courmayeur itself is a picturesque mix of French and Italian influences. The cobbled streets lined with old timber buildings, create a magical and cosy setting at night as fairy-lights twinkle under the eaves of elegant boutiques.
The main Checrouit ski area is split by a ridge with one side offering a northeast exposure, best for early skiing to catch the morning sun; whilst the opposite northwest face has good tree runs down to Val Veny. Courmayeur is the ideal location for a short ski break, due to its varied terrain, good snow levels and close proximity to Geneva.
beginners and intermediates
For absolute beginners, the nursery slopes at Val Veny and Dolonne offer the best location to get to grips with your snow plough turns. Once up the signature gondola which sweeps across the valley to Plan Chercrouit, beginners may find the skiing a little limited. However, those who have made the step up to intermediate level are spoilt for choice, with the majority of the runs in Courmayeur being red. The highest point reachable for intermediate skiers is Cresta Youla at nearly 2625m where there is a good and challenging route that ends at the base of the cable car.
advanced and off piste skiing
Advanced skiers have a few black runs to choose from and can reach the highest point at Cresta d'Arp, provided they can handle the off-piste run back down to Cresta Youla. The world-famous Vallée Blanche is also accessible to anyone who can competently ski a black run and there is also the option of a heli-skiing adventure, one of the best ways to make the most of the superb slopes.
The main draw of Courmayeur for advanced skiers has to be the off-piste adventures which include skiing around the back of the Cresta d'Arp and dropping down a wide, open bowl, before winding through the Val Veny. Alternatively, traverse from Cresta d'Arp to Dolonne or Prè-St-Didier. A ski guide is highly recommended to make the most of the fantastic off-piste opportunities in Courmayeur and is absolutely required if attempting the technically challenging Toula glacier.
après ski
Despite the multitude of bistros, bars and restaurants on the mountain, the best après ski tends to be down in town. The main street, Via Roma, is a joy for après skiers with numerous bars and cafés dotted around the pedestrianised centre.
Most will begin in Bar Roma, a large venue with a rustic atmosphere. Further down the Via Roma, the Café Della Posta radiates an authentic charm with its large sofas and fireplace. A more traditional après ski option is the American Bar with Le Privé upstairs, offering tapas and sushi in a relaxed setting. Cadran Solaire is also a favourite for the well-heeled Italians from Milan, which on weekends, really contribute to the lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Typical of Italy, the evenings tend to be low-key until the midnight hour approaches and the town begins to liven up. The most popular late night venues are Poppy's Pub and Planet Disco Bar, as well as Jimmy's Night Café in Entrèves.
resort activites
Curling, dog sledding, golf on snow, paragliding, snow biking, snowshoeing, sports centre with climbing wall, paragliding, squash and tennis.
If you would like any further information about ski holidays to Courmayeur and the hotels we feature, please call one of our Personal Travel Consultants on 020 8939 0862.
