Italy's High-Altitude Ski Resort Offers Stunning Terrain And Slopes For Every Level

The village of Breuil-Cervinia (commonly called Cervinia) is nestled in the spectacular Italian Alps, 72 miles north of Turin and a few goat lengths from the Swiss border. Its heavenly ski resort boasts some of the highest skiable terrain in Europe, with most pistes above 6,000 feet and some even exceeding 11,000. This altitude ensures abundant snow cover and a delightfully long season, which often extends from November into May.

From this lofty position on Europe's rooftop, Cervinia's skiers are treated to miles of snow-packed terrain, lots of golden sunshine, and endless views of peaks and mountain ranges. These include its namesake mountain, Monte Cervino (commonly called the Matterhorn), along with the Jumeaux, the Fruggen, the Grandes Murailles, and the jagged cone of the Château des Dames — whose fitting French name translates to "castle of the ladies."

Another thing we love about Cervinia is that skiers have the opportunity to glide over to the Zermatt, Switzerland side of the enormous Matterhorn on linked piste and ski in two countries on the very same day. This is a border crossing that's actually fun, as long as you return to the Cervinia side before the lift closes, or it's a long car ride back to Italy. 

One of the world's top skiing destinations, Cervinia offers 200 miles of pristine slopes wheh taken together with Zermatt . The Cervinia side of the mountain comprises the Plan Maison area with its flatter and easier terrain and Laghi Cime Bianche, the portion with the longer and steeper runs. The latter area also encompasses terrain above Valtournenche, a village that's a short jaunt from Breuil-Cervini. These two Cervinia areas cater mainly to beginner and intermediate skiers, particularly those who appreciate long, scenic cruises.

In fact, the longest official ski run in Europe is located in Laghi Cime Bianche. The red (advanced intermediate) route starts at the top of the Klein Matterhorn glacier at Europe's highest cable car stop and descends over 7,700 feet over 13 miles to the village of Valtournenche. Our legs burn just thinking about it. 

Skiers craving steeper and more adventurous terrain, though, probably won't find it in Cervinia. The resort has a few moderate black runs around the Plan Torrette,but it's mostly slim pickings on this side of the mountain. To get their fix, then, expert skiers should zoom over to Zermatt for the day or consider going off piste, preferably with a guide to ensure safety. 

Keep in mind that the higher elevation areas of both Cervinia and Zermatt are very exposed to the elements and can be brutally cold, windy, and/or foggy in bad weather. In inclement conditions, stay in the lower and more sheltered areas of the resort. In particular, the area above Valtournenche is a good bet, as the lifts here are less likely to close due to high winds. For more on the weather and seasons, check out the best time of year to go skiing in the Swiss and Italian Alps.

The adjacent village of Breuil-Cervinia, while small and simple, offers ample alpine charm for visitors. Accommodation on the slopes and in the center of town is plentiful, and tends to be less expensive than in nearby Zermatt. The car-free cobblestone streets in downtown Breuil-Cervinia are lined with chic eateries and bars, sometimes with live music, creating a warm and inviting après-ski ambiance. Shops, spas, and other activities like an ice rink provide additional off-slope area diversions. 

If you're planning an epic ski trip and can't decide whether to stay in Cervinia or Zermatt, we have thoughts. Cervinia may be preferable for a quick and affordable ski weekend, given the lower cost of accommodation and convenient access from Milan and Turin. But if you have a bit more time and budget, Zermatt may be the best destination for discovering the Matterhorn area according to travel influencer Rick Steves.