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Ski Aosta Valley in North West Italy and you're close to both France and Switzerland for cross-border skiing, plus you can choose from a range of ski resorts and have access to three of the highest peaks in Europe. The information in this article is taken from your essential guide for visiting Italy.

An easy drive fromTurin, Milan and Geneva, Aosta has become one of Europe's most popular locations for winter holidays, loved equally by skiers, snowboarders and telemarkers.

But dig a little deeper and you'll discover Italy's smallest region is also big on food, offers excellent hotels, comes good on many fine traditions and even has remarkable mountain vineyards.

A brief history of the Aosta Valley

The Ancient Romans conquered Aosta Valley in 25BC and fortified its peaks to control strategic mountain passes. Even today you can see the majestic ruins of their legacy across the region.

In its more recent history, Aosta only became part of Italy in 1821. Before that it belonged to Savoy, so Savoyard traditions play a large role in life here and most locals speak both French and Italian.

Which ski resort should I visit?

Breuil-Cervinia for best snow in Aosta Valley

At 2,009m, lofty is the most snow-sure village in Italy. It's a small, mountain town on the less busy side of the Matterhorn - better know as Monte Cervino round these parts.

Although it's a modern resort in terms of facilities, you'll find several vintage hotels mixed in with newer apartment blocks and you can expect an authentic winter holiday atmosphere, as it's a favourite resort with Italians.

Despite the ski-village vibe, Breuil-Cervinia offers over 350km of terrain as well as cross-border skiing in Switzerland and Italy. Plus, its lift network accesses Plan Maison, Plateau Rosa and Zermatt - weather permitting.

Where to stay in Breuil-Cervinia

is within easy walking distance of Breuil-Cervinia village centre and only 500m from the Plan Maison lift. Alternatively, if ski-in-ski-out is a deal breaker, think about booking .

Monterosa Ski for three linked valleys

Mellow links three valleys and offers over 180km of runs in a mix of blues, reds and blacks. The Passo dei Salati-Indren gondola accesses slopes at 3,275m, and the area's also known for its off-piste terrain and exceptional glade skiing.

A good all-rounder Monterosa has eight resorts in total, all pride themselves on a family-friendly atmosphere, as well as a range of on and off-mountain activities and a wide choice of restaurants.

Try at 1,579m for its peaceful ambience, stunning views and varied skiing. Gressoney-La-Trinité is Champoluc's nearest neighbour and sits at 1,637m. Or there's pretty Alagna, just south of Monta Rosa at an altitude of 1,191m.

Where to stay in Monterosa Ski

For a mix of luxury and an eco-friendly vibe, book in Champoluc. This laid-back resort covers après ski with an all-day bistro, Finnish sauna, hammam and lap pool. But also has indoor and outdoor climbing walls for more energetic guests.

Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Have a look at some sample itineraries. Both Complete Italy or Italy Itineraries offer inspiration. All can be modified together with your local expert, then booked for a stress-free holiday. Click 'Modify this itinerary' to contact a local Italy expert.

Courmayeur the famous Aosta Valley ski resort

sits at 1,224m and is probably Aosta Valley's most famous resort, it certainly has the most dramatic landscape and a well-deserved reputation for extreme luxury in everything from après-ski to accommodation.

Popular with skiers from Milan, the resort offers over 100km of runs and a range of 14 peaks at altitudes of 4000m plus.

It's also linked to Chamonix by and accesses Vallée Blanche, the world's longest lift-served run. Both and the Punta Helbronner 3,462m high viewpoint are easily reached from Courmayeur too.

Where to stay

To indulge fully in Courmayeur's spectacular views morning and evening, book lux eco-resort with spa. Conveniently located for Courmayeur centre, Le Massif is also close to Mont Blanc, hence the amazing views.

La Thuile the crowd-free Aosta resort (1,450m)

Historic is a traditional mountain town on the Aosta Valley's French border. It sits just beneath Mont Valaisan at an altitude of 1,450m and is part of the renowned ski area.

Families and novice skiers like La Thuile for its gentle, north-facing slopes. However, a network of 35 lifts, over 150km of pistes rising to more than 2,600m, also appeals to more experienced skiers.

This is one of the best areas in the Aosta Valley for ski-touring and heli-skiing so it attracts a fair share of extreme winter sport enthusiasts. But if you want a different mood entirely, go visit the graceful Roman ruins in La Thuile town.

Where to stay

Book for the pleasure of a luxury spa hotel with wonderful mountain views, just three minutes from La Thuile ski lifts. As well as convenience and soothing powers, Montana also has an indoor pool and charming alpine style bedrooms.

Ready to travel to Italy? Find out about the best time to go and the best places to see and things to do in Italy. For inspiration use the Italy itineraries from and our local travel experts. A bit more hands on, learn about getting there, getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

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