Ayas is a valley in the heart of the western Alps lying to the north of Turin and below the Swiss border and encompasses three ski resorts: Champoluc, Antagnod and Frachey. Skiing and snowboarding at Ayas is mainly geared to intermediates, with the Monte Rosa range providing a fine backdrop. There is summer skiing on the Plateau Rosa.

Ayas ski resort encompasses many picturesque villages; some are quiet and traditional, while others are more geared to eager après-skiers. There are numerous restaurants and shops, as well as a range of sports programmes, first-aid and childcare services.

Accommodation is wide-ranging in hotels and pensions, chalets and apartments, and private homes are also available. Non-ski alternatives include ice-skating and mountaineering, while the nightlife can be fairly lively, with plenty of bars and discos, as well as the casino in nearby St Vincent.

There are a combined 180kms of downhill slopes at the Ayas Valley, 150kms of which are dedicated to beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. There are 18 ski lifts, which include chairlifts, surface lifts and a cable car, with an hourly capacity of 22,000 people. In addition, 400 snow cannons guarantee snow on 70kms of the ski fields.

For alternative skiing, the nearby resort of Gressoney offers varied skiing and snowboarding in beautiful surroundings and is interconnected with Ayas. The village of Lignod has some wonderful ancient buildings and a pretty chapel.. Grains has remnants of a 10th century castle, while Aosta retains its Roman connection.

The ski season runs from December to April at Ayas ski resort and cheap rates can be had at the beginning and towards the end of the season. The most convenient way to get to the Ayas Valley is to fly to Turin and hire a car, or take a train/bus combination transfer.