Courmayeur

Courmayeur is perfect for combining modern skiing with a traditional atmosphere. The resort lies at the foot of Mont Blanc, Europe's highest mountain, close to the French border in the Aosta Valley. The attractive village with its boutique shops, cobbled streets, and bars ensures enjoyable après and relaxing evenings. The resort perfectly suits those looking for a stylish destination – you're likely to be able to eat at some of the best restaurants in the Alps here, with three Michelin-starred chef Heston Blumenthal gracing the kitchens each year. It's proximity to Turin and Geneva also make it a superb weekend trip. 

Situated only 22km from Chamonix, it attracts serious skiers (and climbers in the summer) looking to take advantage of excellent off piste offerings. With the Italian aspect of Mont Blanc giving completely different weather to the French side, Courmayeur also serves as an excellent escape when other resorts are experiencing white outs. 

A three stage cable car built in 2016, the Skyway Monte Bianco provides unparalleled 360 degree views as it ascends to the highest publicly accessible point of the Mont Blanc. Not for the faint hearted, but there is also a range of exhilarating descents offered from the mid station, including the famous Vallée Blanche.

There are several good nursery slopes situated at the Plan Checrouit and Maison Vieille. The resort is perfect for intermediate to good skiers with a good choice of testing runs and treeless bowls.

La Thuile is an easy drive or bus ride away; Aosta/Pila and Chamonix are not far, and Cervinia and Monterosa are reachable; all are covered by various lift passes.