When you think of Mt Blanc, it’s natural that the chic French resort of Chamonix first comes to mind. But just a 20 minute drive on the other side of the tunnel is the sunnier side of the mountain, and nestled beneath the gorgeous snow-capped peaks is the Italian village of Courmayeur – and it’s an absolute gem. Think perfectly groomed pistes through pine forests, open bowls that are ideal for boarders and a wide range of slopes suited for first timers and those still prone to the occasional wipe-out. With snowmaking covering 80% of the ski area and the highest lift going up to 2,600m, you won’t have to worry about adequate snow.
Italy is generally quieter than France and Austria so it’s quite possible to find empty slopes mid week, particularly if you avoid the usual peak periods of Christmas, New Year and February half term holidays. You’re also more likely to pick up a bargain outside these times. The season runs from mid December to mid April so take your pick. December is more festive, January and February generally cooler and more snow-sure. March onwards you can find great spring skiing. Facing south, Courmayeur gets lots of sunshine so if skiing in a t-shirt is your thing, head out in April.
Things to do in Courmayeur
In the village there’s a swimming pool, climbing wall and ice skating. But one of the most spectacular things you can do is to take the Skyway Monte Bianco – the cable car that takes you up to 3,466 metres. Don’t tell the French, but the view of Mt Blanc is much better this side of the mountain and you can see for miles into Italy. For the more advanced, this is also the gateway to off-piste adventures. Enquire in the guides office in Courmayeur (also home to a recently updated museum) – easy tours are also possible. This being Italy, you can also look forward to delicious local cuisine and wines – and the best cappuccinos. If you’re a foodie, you’ll be in heaven here.
Hotels & Apartments in Courmayeur
Our top recommended hotels and apartments. To find the perfect one for you, speak to one of our specialists
Au Coeur Des Neiges & SPA
Courmayeur, Italy
3 minute walk
Auberge De La Maison
Courmayeur, Italy
7 minute bus
B&B Residence Checrouit
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute walk
Centrale
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute bus
Chalet Plan Gorret
Courmayeur, Italy
8 minute bus
Cresta Et Duc Hotel
Courmayeur, Italy
4 minute walk
Gran Baita Hotel & Wellness
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute bus
Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc
Courmayeur, Italy
7 minute bus
Grand Hotel Royal E Golf
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute walk
Hotel Aigle
Courmayeur, Italy
4 minute bus
Hotel Aiguille Noire
Courmayeur, Italy
4 minute bus
Hotel Berthod
Courmayeur, Italy
5 minute bus
Hotel Bouton d'Or - Courmayeur
Courmayeur, Italy
4 minute bus
Hotel Chalet Joli
Courmayeur, Italy
5 minute bus
Hotel Chalet Svizzero
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute bus
Hotel Courmayeur
Courmayeur, Italy
7 minute bus
Hotel Crampon
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute bus
Hotel Cristallo - Courmayeur
Courmayeur, Italy
5 minute walk
Hotel Croux
Courmayeur, Italy
5 minute bus
Hotel De La Telecabine
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute bus
Hotel Dei Camosci
Courmayeur, Italy
5 minute bus
Hotel Del Viale
Courmayeur, Italy
7 minute bus
Hotel Dente Del Gigante
Courmayeur, Italy
5 minute bus
Hotel Des Glaciers
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute walk
Hotel Dolonne
Courmayeur, Italy
5 minute bus
Hotel Funivia
Courmayeur, Italy
5 minute bus
Hotel La Grange
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute bus
Hotel Les Jumeaux Courmayeur
Courmayeur, Italy
2 minute walk
Hotel Lo Campagnar
Courmayeur, Italy
4 minute bus
Hotel Lo Scoiattolo
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute bus
Hotel Maison Saint Jean
Courmayeur, Italy
5 minute bus
Hotel Ottoz Meublé
Courmayeur, Italy
4 minute bus
Hotel Pavillon
Courmayeur, Italy
2 minute walk
Hotel Pilier D'Angle & Wellness
Courmayeur, Italy
5 minute bus
Hotel Stella Del Nord
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute walk
Hotel Triolet
Courmayeur, Italy
2 minute walk
Hotel Vallée Blanche
Courmayeur, Italy
5 minute bus
iH Hotels Courmayeur Mont Blanc
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute bus
L'Abri des Amis
Courmayeur, Italy
6 minute bus
Le Massif Hotel & Lodge Courmayeur The Leading Hotels of the World