Ski at the Foot of the Matterhorn
Cervinia (Breuil-Cervinia), nestled high in Italy’s Aosta Valley, is a premier ski resort with iconic views of the Matterhorn and direct access to Zermatt, Switzerland. With high-altitude slopes and glacier access, Cervinia offers reliable snow from October to May—and even summer skiing.
📍 Location
- Region: Aosta Valley, northwest Italy
- Altitude: 2,005 m (village) to 3,883 m (ski summit)
- Nearest airports: Turin (2 hrs), Milan (2.5 hrs), Geneva (3 hrs)
🏔️ Why Visit Cervinia?
- Snow-Sure Terrain: Ski season often lasts 7–8 months due to elevation and glacier access.
- Cross-Border Adventure: Linked with Zermatt and Valtournenche for 350+ km of skiing.
- Beginner-Friendly: Wide, mellow pistes and extensive ski schools.
- Advanced Access: While Cervinia itself has mostly intermediate terrain, advanced skiers can cross into Zermatt for steeper challenges.
- Year-Round Appeal: Hike, bike, or ski on the glacier in summer months.
❄️ What to Do
Ski & Snowboard
- Ideal for intermediate cruisers and families.
- Notable run: 11 km Ventina descent from Plateau Rosa into town.
- Terrain park at the top of the gondola for freestyle riders.
Non-Ski Activities
- Glacier cable car rides with views of the Matterhorn.
- Snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice climbing.
- Spa and wellness centers in town.
Summer
- Summer skiing on the glacier (June–September).
- Hiking trails around Lago Blu and up to mountain refuges.
- Mountain biking and high alpine trekking.
🛌 Where to Stay
- Luxury: Boutique lodges with wellness centers, Matterhorn views, and gourmet dining.
- Family-Friendly: Mid-range hotels with ski-in/ski-out access and kids’ activities.
- Apartments & Chalets: Great for groups or longer stays.
🍽️ Where to Eat & Drink
- Cozy mountain huts offering hearty Aosta Valley cuisine (think polenta, fontina, and venison).
- In-town pizzerias and wine bars for après-ski.
- Upscale dining with fine Italian wines and Matterhorn views.
🚗 Getting There
- Drive: Easily reached by car from Turin or Milan.
- Transfers: Shuttle services and private transfers available from major airports.
- Parking: Ample day and overnight parking in town.
🧭 Cervinia Travel Tips
- Buy the international ski pass if you want to explore Zermatt.
- March–April is a sweet spot for fewer crowds and great snow.
- Don’t miss Lago Blu for a perfect Matterhorn photo backdrop.
- Consider a rest day to enjoy spa treatments or Italian cuisine.
TL;DR
Cervinia is a high-altitude, snow-sure ski destination perfect for intermediate skiers, families, and those looking to combine Italian charm with Swiss slopes. Add glacier skiing and Matterhorn views, and you have a top-tier Alpine escape—year-round.
Cover Photo by Karin Hiselius on Unsplash
Bonjour Alps 