Are you looking for an Italian mountain village with authentic charm, just a stone’s throw from France? Between breathtaking panoramas, Transalpine art of living, and adventures at altitude, one destination stands out: reachable in less than 30 minutes from Chamonix, it embodies alpine elegance, Italian style. But let’s keep the suspense a moment…
Located at the foot of the southern slope of Mont-Blanc, this alpine gem captivates with its warm atmosphere, its mountain heritage, and unique panoramas. Cobblestone streets, stone houses, mountain shops, and trattorias mingle in a setting dominated by glaciers.
In winter, skiers enjoy a varied domain and the legendary Vallée Blanche. In summer, hikers discover the Val Ferret or Val Veny, two sublime valleys to explore on foot or by bike. And all year round, the must-see Skyway Monte Bianco offers an unparalleled view of Europe’s rooftop.
An unforgettable personal experience
During a recent stay, I crossed the Mont-Blanc tunnel on a clear morning. A few kilometers later, the sun flooded the valley. The contrast was striking: on one side, the mineral rigor of the massif, on the other, Italian softness and its scents of coffee. In a few hours, I alternated between high-altitude skiing, lunch on a terrace, and a walk along a clear stream.
The calm, elegance, and authenticity of this resort left a mark on me. And that feeling of having found a perfect refuge between nature, culture, and gastronomy.
The name of this jewel? Courmayeur, one of Italy’s most beautiful alpine villages, nestled against Mont-Blanc.
What to do in Courmayeur? The must-do activities
In winter
Courmayeur is a reference among ski resorts in the Aosta Valley. Its ski area, facing due south, guarantees generous sunshine and appreciated snow quality.
- Alpine skiing: 100 km of well-maintained slopes, between larch forests and panoramic views of Mont-Blanc. Ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers.
- Off-piste skiing & freeride: the most adventurous will take the legendary Vallée Blanche, departing from Punta Helbronner, returning via guides to Chamonix or Courmayeur.
- Skyway Monte Bianco: exceptional cable car that links Courmayeur at 3,466 m altitude in a few minutes. Breathtaking views of the Italian, French, and Swiss Alps.
- Fun activities: tobogganing on dedicated slopes, snowmobile rides, ice skating, snow fatbiking, and guided snowshoe walks.
In summer
Far from resting between seasons, Courmayeur becomes a true playground for mountain, nature, and outdoor lovers.
- Panoramic hikes: routes for all levels in the Val Ferret (calm and wild) and the Val Veny (more mineral, close to glaciers). Possibility to follow sections of the Tour du Mont-Blanc.
- Mountain biking and e-bike: marked loops and trails accessible from the center. Possibility to rent electric bikes with assistance for effortless climbing.
- Climbing & via ferrata: secure sites around the valley, perfect for beginners or progression, often with impressive views of the peaks.
- Paragliding: tandem flights departing from Col Chécrouit or Plan Chécrouit. Guaranteed sensations with a plunging view over the Courmayeur valley.
Culture, well-being, and heritage
Courmayeur is not limited to nature: cultural heritage and well-being experiences perfectly complement any stay.
- Alpine Museum Duke of the Abruzzi: immersion in the history of mountaineering in the heart of the Aosta Valley, through the exploits of mountain guides and explorers.
- Shrine of Our Lady of Healing: perched at the entrance of Val Veny, this shrine is a place of contemplation offering a sublime panorama over the hanging glaciers.
- Saussurea Alpine Botanical Garden: one of the highest in Europe, accessible via the Skyway, with over 900 species of high-altitude plants.
- Pré-Saint-Didier Thermal Baths: 5 km from Courmayeur, these 18th-century thermal baths offer outdoor pools with views of Mont-Blanc, saunas, hammams, and relaxing treatments.
Practical information: coming to Courmayeur from France
By car
- From Chamonix: 30 min via the Mont-Blanc tunnel
- Tunnel rates (light vehicle – 2025):
- One-way: €52.30
- Round trip (valid 7 days): €65.90
- Book of 10 passages: €170
- More info on tunnelmb.net
By public transport
- Bus Chamonix – Courmayeur (25 min, from €8.98 via FlixBus)
- Train to Aosta + bus
- Nearby airports: Geneva, Turin, Milan
