Ski area
There are 2 distinct sections of ski area in Courmayeur, both of which favour intermediates with mostly red runs. The east-facing Checrouit area, accessed by a series of large fast cable-cars, climbs to a paradise of open, well groomed red runs all above the tree line. The other side of the mountain, Val Veny in contrast has the areas few black runs as well as some pretty woodland runs for carving through the trees. For more ambitious skiers the Punta Hellbronner cable car rises from La Palud up the Mont Blanc from which you can descend the famous Vallee Blanche run to Chamonix village (a bus ride is necessary back to Courmayeur).
The resort
Located amongst dramatic scenery on the sunnier south-side of the Mont Blanc is the famous old town of Courmayeur. Just across the Italian border, at the end of the Aosta valley, this historic town combines great skiing with old world charm and superb, stylish Italian hospitality. A good value ski holiday can be found both on and off the slopes in Italy.
Our accommodation is split between the main town of Courmayeur with its maze of narrow cobbled streets and the two satellite hamlets of Entreves and La Palud, very typical stone built mountain villages. Each village is only a short bus ride from central Courmayeur and has direct lift access up on to the slopes.
Courmayeur is a great place for a weekend away. It has an Italian charm and spirit and great atmosphere focussed around the Via Roma. With 60 stylish bars comfortably furnished to relax in after a hard days skiing (often serving free canapés) and restaurants, two night clubs plus 2 cinemas, Courmayeur has a lively après ski scene.
When not on the slopes choose from swimming, ice-skating, bowling, paragliding or simply sample some fine Italian cuisine at one of the restaurants both on and off the mountain.