Old world rustic charm meets big mountains is one way to summarise Alagna, a traditional Italian village at the base of the huge Monte Rosa massif.
This is skiing and riding for the ambitious and adventurous – the descent from the top of Passo Salati back to the village (black-red) is 1,700m alone. The ski area, numbering some 200km of pistes, is spread over three valley systems 20km apart, great for those who like to explore, and the views are spectacular. The freeride terrain is limitless with some of the best off-piste in Italy.
Back in town, the old wooden chalets and traditional vibes give the feel of a cosy Alpine resort.