Champoluc

Champoluc is the largest resort in the Monterosa area, with great glacier views, uncrowded slopes and fabulous off-piste.

Champoluc is the largest resort in the Monterosa region, a huge ski area also known as Italy’s very own “Three Valleys”. Surrounded by wooded terrain and based at one end of the Monterosa ski area (with Gressoney in the central valley and Alagna on the far side), Champoluc boasts spectacular views of the region’s dramatic glaciers and peaks. Those based here have access to the whole Monterosa circuit; renowned in particular for its uncrowded slopes and fabulous off-piste terrain.

Quick facts

  • Main resort in the Val d’Ayas, one of three valleys in the Monterosa ski area
  • Resort altitude of 1570m with access to 180km of pistes from 1200-2970m
  • Quiet slopes throughout the week, more crowded on weekends
  • Best in Monterosa for beginners, and good for higher standards too
  • Access to fantastic off-piste terrain and heliskiing opportunities
  • Great restaurants both on and off the piste serving mainly Italian fare
  • Pleasant ski resort-style village with traditional satellite hamlets nearby
  • The best option for après-ski in Monterosa although still relatively quiet

Getting to Champoluc

The closest airport is Turin, just 1 hour 30 minutes away, but Milan and Geneva are within easy reach also (Milan 2 hours, Geneva 3 hours). Car hire and airport transfers can be arranged. Alternatively, the drive from Calais through France and then through the Mont Blanc tunnel into the Aosta Valley takes approximately 10 hours.

More about Champoluc

ABOUT THE RESORT

Champoluc is strung out along a mountain road, and has a classic ski resort ambience, in contrast to other Monterosa resorts, which feel more like authentic little Italian villages. With more hotels than other resorts in the area, Champoluc is the largest base in the three valleys. Whilst it has less charm than the resorts of Gressoney and Alagna in the other two valleys, it still has some good old Italian character, and several older hamlets in its surrounds.

ON THE MOUNTAIN

Ideal for intermediates and experts, Monterosa offers mainly red runs, and amazing off-piste and heliskiing opportunities. But Champoluc specifically is also the best choice in the region for beginner skiers, with easy-to-reach beginners’ slopes at Antagnod. Snowboarders will love the free-riding across all three valleys, and cross-country skiers are spoilt for choice too. There’s also plenty of good mountain restaurants for lunch in the sunshine or a quick fuel stop.

OFF THE MOUNTAIN

Champoluc is a pleasant village with several craft shops, an ice rink, and good restaurants serving delicious Italian classics. Of all the villages in the Monterosa ski area, it’s the best place for après-ski cocktails and live music, although still relatively quiet compared to other Alpine resorts. Visitors can take in a bit of the area’s history in Champoluc’s satellite villages, and perhaps even buy a pair of traditional wooden clogs as a souvenir.

WHERE TO STAY

There are several lovely small hotels, many family-run, in Champoluc, either in the village centre or in the surrounding woodland nearby. To book or for advice, contact one of the Champoluc specialists listed below.

PACKAGES AND TOUR OPERATORS

A number of UK tour operators can assist with arranging all elements of your holiday to Champoluc including accommodation and travel from the UK and can advise you on the best accommodation options for you.

UK Tour Operators in the Aosta Valley