Courmayeur

Courmayeur, a diamond nestled among the majestic peaks of the Alps with the magnificent Mont Blanc as a backdrop, offers ski enthusiasts an unforgettable experience in an extraordinary Italian ski resort.
With its 18 ski lifts connecting the slopes of Checrouit and Val Veny, Courmayeur offers 33 perfectly groomed pistes, immersed in a natural setting of forests and sunny valleys.

Situated less than two hours by motorway from Milan and Geneva, Courmayeur offers the possibility of tackling a difference in altitude of 1,550 metres between Arp and Dolonne. Thanks to the innovative snowmaking system, which covers more than 80% of the skiable area, skiing enthusiasts can enjoy quality snow.

The village of Courmayeur awaits you much lower down, at an altitude of only 1,224 metres. The village is situated on the slopes of Mont Blanc, where you will find authentic traditional villages along the course of the Dora Baltea river, which runs through the village and the entire Aosta Valley.

The village of Courmayeur is noted for its great sense of hospitality and the attention to detail that has always distinguished and characterised its many accommodations, from the luxury hotel to the alpine hut, from the historic cafés in the centre to the hostels on the slopes.

Courmayeur: a unique experience, skiing at dawn

Courmayeur offers a unique skiing experience: skiing at sunrise on the slopes of the majestic Mont Blanc. Immersed in the silence of the morning, the first rays of the sun caress the summit of Mont Blanc, delicately tinging it with pink.
This exclusive experience is dedicated to a maximum of 50 people who wish to get up early for this
to get up early to experience this exciting adventure at dawn.
The meeting point is at the Dolonne cable car departure station at 7.25 am. Guests must present themselves directly at the entrance turnstile with a valid ski pass and the receipt of their online purchase. They can then take the Checrouit gondola lift and ski down the Checrouit piste until the resort opens. In case of bad weather conditions, a refund is guaranteed.
This experience is not offered every day. There are three Sundays to ski with the first rays of the sun in Courmayeur (4 February, 25 February and 10 March).

Innovation and sustainability at the Courmayeur ski resort

We know how important it is to invest in growing snow, which is why the work recently carried out on the snowmaking system increased the percentage of slopes with an investment of approximately 6.5 million euros, one of the largest in the sector in Italy. To complete this intervention in the 2023-24 season, high-production, low-pressure snow cannons were installed at strategic points of the ski area: these are cutting-edge, energy-efficient systems.
These are cutting-edge, energy-efficient systems, which allow snow to be produced with a higher yield for a lower energy consumption.

“OVER THE LAST DECADE, WE HAVE INVESTED CONSIDERABLE RESOURCES IN ORDER TO OFFER OUR GUESTS THE BEST POSSIBLE EXPERIENCE WHILE MAXIMISING ENERGY SAVINGS AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT”

Over the past ten years, Courmayeur has devoted considerable resources to optimising energy consumption and the impact on the environment. The supply of electricity by CVA Energie, a CVA Group company focused on sustainability in the Aosta Valley, is an example of this commitment.
As of this year, the energy diagnosis system of the facilities (ski lifts, snowmaking systems and snow grooming) will be fully operational with energy meters that allow constant monitoring and optimisation of consumption.

The water used for snowmaking is not extracted from reservoirs, but exclusively from groundwater in the water table, via wells, so as not to impact the landscape. It is extremely pure water which, when it melts, is returned to the environment with the same characteristics it had when it was extracted from the ground.
They also have another technological system that allows them to constantly check the thickness of the snowpack on the slope in order to be efficient in the distribution of snow and to better manage the production of programmed snow with a view to optimising energy and water consumption.

For the winter opening, the general overhaul and technical modernisation of the Courmayeur cable car will be completed for the winter opening of the next season. The reliability and safety of the installation has become imperative by upgrading to the latest ropeway technology.

The most demanding ski slopes in Courmayer

For thrill-seekers, Courmayeur offers two thrilling slopes. These slopes start at an altitude of 2,750 metres in Arp and offer moments of pure fun for the most experienced skiers. The slopes in question include a ski run of about 700 metres, a steep north-facing slope (beware that in the early hours, it can sometimes be very hard/frosty), on which a black run of about 600 metres in length has been marked out, characterised by a 70% gradient. These descents are a real challenge and promise thrills and adrenaline in its purest form.

The Checrouit and International descents are not to be missed either, offering unique thrills thanks to their steepness and the evocative backdrop of Mont Blanc.
Blanc.

Learning to ski at the Courmayeur ski resort

The ski area of Courmayeur Mont Blanc will satisfy both experts and beginners in the world of skiing or snowboarding, for a carefree experience, with all the services at your fingertips. From the beginner ski pass to rentals and ski lessons with ski instructors.
With the beginner ski passes, which give you access to three ski lifts, you are entitled to discounts on equipment hire at the Ski In, Alpineve and Lo Chalet high altitude rentals (adult rental rate €18.00 – junior rental rate €12.50).

Family holidays in Courmayeur

Children under the age of 8 ski free with the purchase of an adult, junior or senior ski pass.
Attractive discounts are also available for children under 14 and 18 years of age.
Children who are too young to enjoy a skiing experience can accompany their parents on the slopes and have fun with the babysitters at the Snow White mini-club, just a few steps from the arrival of the Plan Checrouit ski lifts.

Gourmet experiences in Courmayeur

More than 20 restaurants at the foot of the slopes will delight the most demanding palates and refresh those in a hurry to get back to the slopes.
Start the day with freshly baked croissants and creamy cappuccinos to give you the energy you need to hit the slopes. After an unforgettable morning’s skiing, stop for a delicious lunch at one of the resort’s restaurants (prices are more affordable than in resorts in France or even Spain). From traditional Alpine cuisine to gourmet options, there’s something for everyone.

The Courmayeur experience doesn’t end with the sunset. After skiing, a good plan is to stop off at Plan Checrouit for a refreshing afterski or a live musical performance. In the evenings, the resort transforms into a gastronomic paradise with restaurants offering a wide selection of fine wines. On the Checrouit side, thanks to the Courmayeur cable car open until midnight, you can savour gourmet cuisine prepared by top chefs. It is the perfect time to relax and share unforgettable culinary experiences with friends and family.

Those looking for an experience that combines the pleasures of the palate with an adrenaline-fuelled experience can reach some of the restaurants on the Val Veny piste by snowmobile.

Two souls in one ski resort: chic and wild

Courmayeur is chic, but also wild: two opposing souls coexist in the same ski area. For those in search of charm and elegance, the Checrouit piste,
hides gastronomic and innovative restaurants, après ski and relaxation between runs. Those who, on the other hand, are looking for the uncontaminated and wild side of Courmayeur should not miss the Val Veny piste which offers descents in the magic of the forests and unique views of Mont Blanc. You will find cosy huts where the warmth and aromas of local products welcome the guest for a complete experience.

If you are one of those who go down hard and want to test your skills on skis, we recommend you to try the Speed check at full speed. The speed check run on the Checrouit piste is designed for speed lovers. For a challenge down to the last second, on the piste you can in fact time yourself to discover your performance on skis.

For freeride lovers, the upper part of the ski area, from the arrival stations of the Youla and Arp cable cars, offers unique off-piste itineraries, which in the past have also featured in some stages of the Freeride Word Tour. In fact, Courmayeur is one of the few ski resorts that offers adrenaline-filled corridors, interesting slopes and virgin pistes with optimal snow conditions and breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.
One unusual piste is the “Pista dell’Orso” (Bear Piste) is the exception to the rule of the ski area as far as grooming is concerned. This piste is not groomed by snow groomers, the piste offers entertaining descents between ‘moguls’ on a piste that varies between 40% and 70%.

Courmayeur Snowpark

The playground for lovers of acrobatics, in the heart of the ski area, designed for lovers of acrobatic skiing and snowboarding, but also for those who want to take their first steps in the speciality.
Situated at an altitude of 2,000 metres, the park has been designed down to the last detail and is equipped with a progressive zone with four lines for all levels of rails, whoop and funbox, two easy jumps and two jumps – easy and medium level – and very easy rails, suitable for children and beginners.

The first cable lifts were installed in the Coumayeur ski resort.

It is in Courmayerur that the history of ski lifts began: in 1908 the Donzelli, Gilberti and Lora Totino families had the first cable lift built. In 1939, this pioneering idea gave birth to the Monte Blanco Company, which built the cable car from La Palud to Punta Helbronner. From then on, the mountain gradually went from being the destination of only a few climbers to becoming a place accessible to all.

Today, with more than 100 kilometres of pistes, Courmayeur is one of the top winter sports resorts in Italy and Europe. The alpine ski resort of Courmayeur is visited by skiers from all over the world.

For lovers of Nordic skiing, there is nothing better than a pleasant stay in Val Ferret, which even has slopes suitable for less experienced skiers.

Conceived as a thermal village, the area offers Spas and Spas, thanks to the thermal waters of the area.

There are 17 lifts, including cable cars and gondolas, which allow us to enjoy the surroundings in total comfort, and we recommend Freeride enthusiasts to take the Vallé Blanche glacier and the Toula glacier.

From this pleasant resort in the Aosta Valley, many excursions are available, ideal for those who do not just want to ski. By cable car: crossing the Mont-Blanc massif or the Cresta d’Arp. By car: Val Veny, Val Ferret, the Testa d’Arpi or the Petit-Saint-Bernard-Bernard route, one of the main passes in the Alps, which was already used by the Romans.

Skiing in Courmayeur Mont Blanc: the highlights of this international Alpine resort

Located in the heart of the Aosta Valley, Courmayeur Mont Blanc is one of Italy’s most iconic resorts and the most glamorous in the western Alps.

At the foot of the Mont Blanc massif, it combines tradition, authenticity, and modern facilities catering to both demanding skiers and families.

Its elegant and panoramic ski area is complemented by high-quality services, fine dining, and a village with a cosmopolitan atmosphere all year round.

A technical and varied ski area

The Courmayeur ski area is divided into two large sectors: Chécrouit and Val Vény, both connected by ski lifts and panoramic slopes.

It has 33 slopes (11 blue, 17 red, and 5 black) and 18 ski lifts, with altitudes ranging from 1,210 meters in Dolonne to 2,755 meters in Cresta Arp.

The total length of groomed slopes is 42 km, although the entire area offers up to 100 km of skiable terrain if off-piste routes and secondary trails are included.

Snow is guaranteed thanks to a snowmaking system that covers 82% of the area, with more than 500 production points and 378 state-of-the-art snow cannons.

The 2025–2026 season runs from November 29 to April 6, with opening hours from 8:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., extended to 8:25 a.m. on weekends and holidays.

Access and main sectors of Courmayeur

If you are staying in the center of Courmayeur: Take the Courmayeur – Plan Chécrouit cable car, which provides direct access to the heart of the domain.

It operates every day until midnight, allowing you to enjoy dinner at altitude with views of Mont Blanc.

If you are staying in Dolonne: The Dolonne gondola lift is the most convenient access point, with covered parking and automatic ticket machines.

Ideal for families and groups looking for speed and convenience.

If you are staying in Entrèves or Val Vény: The Val Vény cable car takes you to the most scenic area, with direct views of the glacier and wider, quieter slopes.

Parking in this area is uncovered, with reduced rates until early afternoon.

Great ski runs you can’t miss

The domain offers long-distance itineraries and an impressive cumulative vertical drop:

• Arp – Dolonne: more than 1,500 meters of vertical drop and almost 8.5 km of continuous descent.
• Youla – Zerotta (Val Vény): 1,099 meters of vertical drop and some of the coldest snow in the valley.

The upper sectors offer spectacular views of the Mont Blanc massif and the Val Ferret.

Freeriding and heliskiing

Courmayeur is one of the most prestigious freeriding destinations in the Alps.

Areas such as Toula, Marbrées, and the connection to the Vallée Blanche allow for off-piste descents of up to 2,000 meters of vertical drop. Heliskiing is permitted in controlled areas, with daily operations from Mont Fortin and other adjacent peaks. The resort has information points on snow conditions and safety, and all freeride areas require rescue equipment (avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe).

Snowpark, families, and ski schools

The Courmayeur Snowpark, located between Chécrouit and Aretu (at about 2,000 m), offers double jump lines, rails, and a learning area for freestyle beginners.

Children can enjoy the Baby Club Plan Chécrouit, next to the cable car arrival point, and wide beginner slopes supervised by instructors. The ski schools have more than 300 instructors, with lessons in several languages and programs adapted to all ages.

Courmayeur ski passes and benefits

• 4-day or longer passes: include free use of the Courmayeur – Plan Chécrouit night cable car.
• Children under 8: free ski pass when accompanied by an adult.
• Young people up to 24 years old: 20-30% discounts.
• Aosta Valley ski pass: direct access without going through the ticket office at all resorts in the valley.
• Ikon Pass: valid for up to 7 days (Ikon) or 5 days (Ikon Base) between November 1 and May 31.
• Discounts on the Mont Blanc Tunnel and transfers to Chamonix upon presentation of your Courmayeur ski pass.

Gastronomy and mountain life

Courmayeur’s gastronomy is an essential part of the experience.

High-altitude refuges such as Maison Vieille, Chécrouit, and Christiania are known for their Valle d’Aosta cuisine: polenta concia, meat in wine, and Fontina DOP cheese.

In the valley, the restaurants in the center offer a combination of Alpine tradition and Italian innovation. Après-ski has an elegant character: sunny terraces, live music, and cocktails in front of Mont Blanc.

In the evening, the center of Courmayeur buzzes with shops, cafes, and a refined alpine atmosphere.

Tips from the I Love Ski Community for skiing in Courmayeur

1. Get up early

Start your day in Dolonne or Courmayeur center: the Chécrouit slopes are perfect between 9:00 and 11:00 a.m.

2. Cross over to Val Vény

At midday, the sun lights up the slopes of Val Vény. This is the best area for carving with well-packed snow.

3. Descend the Arp – Dolonne

The longest and most complete run: 1,545 meters of vertical drop with views of the massif.

4. Dinner at altitude

Make a reservation at the Rifugio Maison Vieille and return on the night cable car: an exclusive experience with views of the illuminated Mont Blanc.

5. Don’t forget your avalanche transceiver

If you’re skiing off-piste, Courmayeur offers some of the best freeride lines in the Alps. Always carry rescue equipment.