Cervinia / Valtournenche is a world famous ski resort in the Aosta Valley of the western Alps, near the Italian/Swiss border. Cervinia is among the highest resorts in the Alps and connects with Zermatt and the mighty Matterhorn (4,478m) in Switzerland on an international ski pass. The snow record is unbeatable and there is also summer skiing on the Swiss Glacier and Plateau Rosa.
Cervinia / Valtournenche ski resort is characterised by the spectacular scenery that surrounds it. Cervinia is a purpose-built resort that appears to have been thrown together in a hurry to capitalize on the magnificent terrain, while some find the hamlet of Valtournenche, farther down the valley, more pleasant (and cheaper).
There is a variety of accommodation in both villages, in hotels, apartments, chalets and private residences, with about 5,000 beds in total. Swimming and ice-skating are among other non-skiing activities, and there are numerous bars and restaurants where you can enjoy the nightlife. Cervinia is particularly lively.
Over 100kms of wide, groomed, treeless snowfields at Cervinia interconnect with 40kms of runs at Valtournenche to offer a total of 150kms of pistes. The slopes are linked by 31 cableways, gondolas, chairlifts and surface lifts and the longest run is eight kilometres. Pistes are mostly geared to beginners and intermediates so expert level and thrill-seeker skiers and snowboarders will have to venture across the border.
The skiing terrain more than doubles when you include the easily accessible slopes above Zermatt. The return ski from Zermatt via Europe’s highest cableway, the Klein Matterhorn (3,820m), is fantastic. Zermatt itself boasts a popular curling centre and the brilliant Alpine Museum. Highly recommended is a trip to the city of Aosta and its remarkable Roman ruins.
The ski season at Cervinia / Valtournenche runs from November to late April with special rates to December 19, and in April. Turin’s Casselle Airport is the preferred point of entry and, together with car hire, offers the quickest option for getting here.
