Courmayeur is so much more than a ski resort. It is the most charming place on the sunny side of The Highest Peaks of the Alps. 

The ski area is very well maintained and it is a pleasure to cruise around both sides of Mont Frety. I can easily spend an hour or two looping around both side of the high speed quad of plan de la Gabba. The never ending Internatizionale is best in the morning. Gigante is another favorite on the very far end of the ski area. For lovers of Freeride there a two hotspots.  From the summits of the ski area starting at Cresta Youla the whole  way around down to Zerotta or starting from the last tiny cable of Cresta d’Arp all the way to Dolonne. The other hotspot is on the Monte Bianco side using the brand new Skyway to the top of Punta Helbronner.

But all in life is not about skiing. The pedestrian Via Roma has more than you can ask for, of pricey shops and welcoming bars. The hospitality of Courmayeur is well known, also across the border as many tourist staying in Chamonix come over at least once to savour the friendliness and good food.

Talking about food – the choice is abundant. For lunch on the mountain you can hardly be disappointed. Just to mention a few;

Carlo and his son Francesco at Christiana at Plan Checrouit are in fact attractions on their own. How they greet their guests is a piece of art. Their pizzas are to die for and so is the pasta.

Giacomo at Maison Vieille has been around for a long time and it is still an absolute favorite stop for any kind of intake. Coffee, a long lunch or even an après-ski. 

La Chaumière just above the Monte Bianco Ski School is a gastronomic highlight.

Anna at Chiecco is a multicultural personality with very talented people in the kitchen to support her show.

The very best Tiramisu worth a detour is at Chez Ollier not far from Pra Neyron. But don’t come too late because it might be eaten by then.

I remember discussing the skiing with one of the bosses at the lift company. Skiing is important and we take pride in preparing the slopes with 265 snow guns and snowcats pass every inch of the area every night. But frankly, food is more important. ”Our main task is to supply the nice mountain restaurants with hungry skiers” 

In town we have a couple of favorites. Like the tiny Pizzeria Tunnel with the best Pizzas on the planet. Pierre Alexis has changed a couple of times throughout the years and now it is a very good place with excellent slowfood. If you haven’t been to Mont Frety, you should because the gastronomy food is well worth another detour. Are you keen on grilled meat make the gentle little walk over to Dolonne and head for Lo Sciatore.

For a snack we recommend the American Bar. Besides being a classic place for pre- and after dinner drinks, the new chef will serve all kind of tempting food.   

Caffe de la Posta is a must for watching people either before or after dinner.  

Bar Roma has that lounge feeling where you can spend a larger part of the evening. 

The best bar in town is without surprise at Royal et Golf. The bartenders are top notch. Ask for their special… and you are all set to enjoy la Dolce Vita.

If you like Courmayeur, which you will, you might just as well spend the night. Royal et Golf has everything you need, if you have the budget.

Our private favorite hotel since the downing of times is the family run Meublé Laurent. But please don’t tell anyone. 😉

Enjoy !