Italy offers a more relaxed approach to enjoying the mountains. Expect high quality on mountain restaurants, spectacular scenery and relaxed evenings over a big meal. Piste grooming is generally good and investments in lift infrastructure are now paying dividends.
Courmayeur
Resort size: 100km (Blue 27%, Red 59%, Black 14%)
Lifts: 21; Vertical: 1,225m-2,755m; Transfer from Geneva 1h30
Courmayeur Piste Map: http://aosta-valley.co.uk/
There are 3 main areas to the resort above the town. The compact piste area is suitable for intermediates, but there is also extensive off-piste including access to itineraries on Mont Blanc and towards Chamonix. You’ll be glad of the quality of cuisine available after a days skiing.
Our favourite deal in Courmayeur
4 Star Hotel Cresta et Duc
Guide Price from £506pp with Half Board
Nearest Lift: Courmayeur Cable Car
La Thuile
Resort size: 160km (Blue 31%, Red 40%, Black 19%)
Lifts: 37; Vertical: 1,175m-2,610m; Transfer from Geneva 1h30
La Thuile Piste Map: http://aosta-valley.co.uk/
La Thuile is a large intermediate area and relatively uncrowded even at peak times. Pistes are a mix of tree lined runs and open bowls. It is lift linked to La Rosière in France to form the Espace Bernado area. The village is relatively quiet in the evening with a few bars for a night cap.
Our favourite deal in La Thuile
4 Star Hotel Planibel
Guide Price from £390pp with Half Board
Nearest Lift: Les Suches Gondola