January 10 – 17th
Experience the feeling and culture of the Aosta Valley, home of superb alpine skiing in the resorts of Pila and Courmayeur but also feel the charm and authenticity of the small ski resorts that are so typical in this region. Trip is split into three stages. Aosta, Chamois and Courmayeur. This incorporates two large ski areas, a Roman city, and a small secluded ski village.
Itinerary Plan
Drive from the airport to Aosta, this will be the base for the first 3 days. Enjoy skiing in Pila, activities in Aosta in the evening and explorers may want to venture to Crevacol to get the miles in. Next stop Chamois – Drop the car in Buisson, and take the gondola to Chamois, the hotel is conveniently located next to the gondola. After a day skiing the slopes in Chamois relax back and enjoy the evening at one of the restaurants in this tiny village. From Chamois to Courmayeur – the final days of the trip will be based from here, experience the large ski area, links to La Thuile and visit the skyway up Monte Bianco. Courmayeur is perfect for shopping or enjoying the Italian food and wine. From Courmayeur it’s a fitting end to the trip driving all the way back down this beautiful and impressive valley.
Aosta (Pila) (3 Nights)
The activities set in Aosta are similar to a City break vibe and the accommodation is very centrally located. The hotel caters for ski equipment and a quick taxi can get to the base in 10 mins. Hotels near the Piazza are lovely and this gives perfect access to the pila gondola and the city attractions. Enjoy your morning coffee in the piazza before a long day on the slopes.
Accommodation:
- 4 Star Hotel. €113/night. Includes ski lockers in the centre of Aosta.
Recommended things to do/ places to eat:
- Porta Pretoria – Ancient street with boutiques within the roman walls.
- Teatro Romano + Aosta old town – Roman ruins (tour guide available from hotel) immerse yourself in the rich history of Aosta.
- Osteria da Nando (restaurant) 12min
- Vecchio Ristoro (restaurant) 4 min
- Slopeside restaurants in Pila. – Restaurant Bedivere and Res Yeti.
For the explorers:
Crevacol – a wonderful small ski resort – is only a 20min drive north from Aosta. Explore the off piste and the special run over the autostrada. There are some restaurants and bars nearby on Saint Rheme.
Chamois (1 Night)
Chamois’ location and perfect secluded setting is excellent for 1 night and 1 day skiing, the resort has enough to do for two nights and the small village feel is unique in Italy and perfect for a couple to spend a day and night. It is also family friendly too. The small feel of the resort means that skiing would be limited for more than 2 days however Cervinia is only up the road.
- 33 Minute drive to Buisson from Aosta – Gondola is (€5 return) – Parking is free and right next to the gondola.
- Day Ski Pass for Chamois – €20/Adult. (Note: ski rental unavailable in Chamois.)
Accommodation:
4 Star hotel. €78/night
Recommended things to do/ places to eat:
- Chez Pierina (restaurant)
- Bar Funiva (good place for a cold pint)
Courmayeur (3 Nights)
Skiing available in La Thuile also – this is a 14min bus away from the centre of Courmayeur – La Thuile is linked to La Roisiere. (all on the Aosta Valley Pass)
Courmayers class and fantastic slopes are excellent for those wanting a proper italian ski resort experience. As Courmayeur is a top destination, activities, restaurants and bars are covered very well. Accommodation is central and the distance to Aosta is minimal allowing for a flawless transfer of base for 3 days.
Accommodation:
3 Star Hotel €117/night – good location breakfast included.
Recommended things to do/ places to eat:
- Montebianco Skyway. (included in some lift passes)
- Courmayeur – indoor tennis courts. (bookable via phone)
- Maison Viele. (après bar)
- Ristorante Chalet Plan Gorret. (restaurant) 13 min
- Lo Sciatore. (restaurant) – 4 min
- Ristorante La Terrazza – 9 min
