Courmayeur
An elegant mountain resort at the foot of Mont Blanc, combining luxury with breathtaking Alpine scenery. It's a top destination for skiing, hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, and stylish après-ski culture.
Things to do
- Ride the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car — A rotating panoramic gondola lifts you to 3466m with jaw-dropping Mont Blanc views.
- Ski Courmayeur resort — The well-groomed slopes suit all levels; the north-facing terrain holds snow well.
- Hike a stage of Tour du Mont Blanc — Walk a section of this famous Alpine trail for spectacular glacier and peak scenery.
- Explore the historic village center — The cobbled Via Roma is lined with boutiques, cafés, and 18th-century buildings.
- Visit the Alpine Museum — The Museo Alpino Duca degli Abruzzi tells the story of Mont Blanc exploration and alpinism.
Food to try
- Valdostana Scaloppine — Thin veal cutlets topped with Fontina and ham, then baked or pan-fried until melted.
- Mocetta — Air-dried chamois or beef cured with mountain herbs, thinly sliced as an antipasto.
- Fonduta Valdostana — A silky Fontina cheese fondue served with bread or polenta for dipping.
- Genepi liqueur — A herbal digestivo made from Artemisia plants harvested in the high Alps.
Local customs & good to know
- Dress smartly for après-ski — Courmayeur's café culture is stylish; locals dress up even after a day on the slopes.
- Mont Blanc permit rules — High-altitude routes on Mont Blanc require permits and experience; don't attempt alone.
- French is widely spoken — Given proximity to France, French is commonly used alongside Italian in shops and restaurants.