|
Champoluc Skiing Holidays
Champoluc, situated in the Ayas Valley in the heart of the Italian Alps, is one of the main resorts making up the giant Italian ski area, the Monterosa. The area is comprised of three valleys, Ayas, Gressoney and Alagna, which all sit beneath the majestic Monte Rosa, the second highest mountain in Europe, offering an extensive ski area. Champoluc, set in stunning forests and with fabulous views, is a quaint unspoilt village with traditional architecture, and a good deal of modern facilities.
Skiing in Champoluc – The Mountains
Champoluc, located at 1,570m, is the main resort in the Ayas Valley and is lift-linked to the other resorts in the Monterosa circuit, creating an area with 180km of pistes served by 38 lifts. A series of modern updated lifts moves skiers quickly and efficiently around the area, and up to the highest elevation of 3,260m at the top of the Indren glacier, resulting in little or no queues. The high-altitude slopes are boosted by some extensive snow-making facilities, with almost half the slopes served by snow cannons. The area is predominantly suited to intermediate skiers, especially within the Ayas and Gressoney Valleys, where a wealth of long, wide red and blue trails can be found. Beginners have their own nursery area at the top of the village in Champoluc, and 18 easy trails throughout the entire region. Experts in Champoluc should cross over to Alagna, where they’ll find much tougher skiing including some challenging blacks, thrilling off-piste terrain and, from the top of the glacier, a 2,000m vertical drop. The Monterosa Ski area is a haven for heli-skiers, due to the huge amount of high mountains in the area and its’ close proximity to France, where heli-skiing is banned. Champoluc, and the whole Monterosa circuit is included on the Aosta Valley Pass, which offers skiers a massive 800km of terrain over 12 resorts, including Cervinia, Zermatt, La Thuile, Courmeyer and Chamonix.
Skiing in Champoluc – The Village
Champoluc, dating back to the 15th century, is a charming village with a traditional ambience, perfect for families and those looking for a relaxing base. Surrounded by scenic pine trees and with a river running through its’ centre, the village of Champoluc is unspoilt and picturesque. Although by no means lively, the après-ski scene is busier than one would imagine, with Champoluc being home to 25 restaurants and 15 bars, situated both in the main square and at the bottom of the piste. Whilst skiing in Champoluc, other activities to try include ice-skating, swimming, walking and hiking, and paragliding.
Monterosa Skiing Holidays
Italy Skiing Holidays
|
