Very high alpine skiing suited to beginners and inters!
Cervinia is the highest resort in Italy and one of the highest in the Alps where snow reliability is one of the most consistent in the Alps

The town itself sits at an impressive 2050m with a lift system that reaches the dizzy height of 3899m, which can only mean one thing – great snow and a long season! Linked with Zermatt, this is an extensive ski area which is particularly well suited to beginners and intermediate skiers and snowboarders.

The wide open “motorway” pistes boost confidence and inspire improvement in all. It is generally reckoned that a complete beginner would be able to tackle the consistently gentle gradient from Plateau Rosa all the way down to Cervinia at some point during their first week. A mind blowing 1430 vertical metres! Don’t take the wrong turn, however, or you’ll end up in Zermatt.

For an early intermediate this makes for a fabulous day out. Head up and over the border, down past Trockner Stegg and carry on to the famous Swiss resort in time for a well earned lunch. The more adventurous will have time to explore some of the other parts Zermatt’s three main areas before rushing back into Italy for a well earned Vin Brulé or Bombadino (you’ll like it).

And there’s more to come. The 17km run from Plateau Rosa all the way to Valtournenche dares you to complete it non-stop. And if you really want something special then there are literally unlimited heliskiing opportunities on the adjacent Monte Rosa. All of this is presided over by one of the most unmistakeable mountains in the world – the Matterhorn. So big it makes you feel you can reach out and touch. Enjoy.

Author: Rob Downham
Head of Overseas – Alpine Elements Group