Courmayeur is a year-round destination with a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, such as skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking, biking, and exploring in the summer. However, this town offers many other things to do besides these, which is the focus of this article. Let’s quickly provide you with six memorable things to do in Courmayeur, no matter what time of year you visit.
Memorable Things to Do in Courmayeur
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Take a ride on the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car
- Visit the Val Ferret
- Go hiking in the Mont Blanc Massif
- Visit the Santuario di Notre-Dame de Guérison
- Enjoy the Courmayeur nightlife
Skiing and snowboarding
Skiing and snowboarding are popular activities in Courmayeur, thanks to its world-class slopes, breathtaking scenery, and buzzing après-ski scene. This Italian town is a winter paradise for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, offering an unforgettable skiing and snowboarding experience.
Courmayeur’s ski area is a part of the Courmayeur Mont Blanc Ski Resort, one of the biggest and most versatile ski resorts in the Alps. The resort has over 100 kilometers of slopes, ranging from gentle beginner runs to difficult black diamond slopes. Similarly, there are also many off-piste options for experienced skiers and snowboarders.
Take a ride on the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car
The Skyway Monte Bianco cable car, which flies high above the Italian Alps, takes visitors to the heart of one of the world’s most famous mountain ranges. The Skyway ascends in two stages from the lively town of Courmayeur, first to the intermediate station of Pavillon du Mont Fréty and then to its final destination, Punta Helbronner, at an altitude of 3,466 meters.
The first part of the journey takes passengers through a beautiful valley with views of the surrounding mountains. Once at Pavillon du Mont Fréty, visitors can disembark and explore the area, which includes a restaurant, gift shop, and a number of hiking trails.
The second part of the Skyway is even more breathtaking as the cable car ascends even higher, giving passengers panoramic views of the Alps. On a clear day, it is possible to see for miles in every direction, including the iconic Mont Blanc itself. Taking a ride on the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable and memorable experiences in Courmayeur!
Visit the Val Ferret
In addition to the slopes offered by this charming Alpine town, there is also a hidden gem in Courmayeur: the Val Ferret, a tranquil valley that offers a glimpse into the authentic heart of the Alps.
The Val Ferret is a naturalist’s dream, with its lush meadows, glistening streams, and imposing peaks. The Alpine marmot, the bearded vulture, and the edelweiss flower are among the unusual creatures and plants that call this place home.
This place offers a wide range of outdoor activities all year round. In the summer, you can go hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and horseback riding. In the winter, you can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating.
Val Ferret is truly a place where time slows down and you can connect with nature in all her beauty. It is a place where you can truly relax and connect with nature.
Go hiking in the Mont Blanc Massif
Mont Blanc Massif hiking is also one of the things to do in Courmayeur. It is a popular winter destination for skiers and snowboarders, but it is also a great place to hike in the summer. There are over 400 kilometers of marked trails to choose from, so there is a hike for everyone in Courmayeur. Some suggested hikes include hiking to Refugio Bonatti, Bivuoac Fiorio, or Miage Lake.
However, it is important to be aware of a few tips for hiking in the Mont Blanc Massif, such as choosing a trail that is appropriate for your fitness level and experience, wearing appropriate footwear and clothing, and so on.
Visit the Santuario di Notre-Dame de Guérison
The Santuario di Notre-Dame de Guérison, a centuries-old chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is situated in the picturesque Val Veny, at the foot of Mont Chétif. The walls of this revered site, which has long been a pilgrimage destination for those seeking comfort and healing, are adorned with countless ex-votos, which serve as testimonials to the many miracles attributed to the Madonna.
However, the Santuario is not only a religious shrine but also a work of art and architecture. The exterior of the church has a simple yet elegant Neoclassical facade, while the interior is a dazzling display of colorful frescoes and intricate carvings. Take some time to admire the altarpieces, which depict scenes from Mary’s life, as well as the stained glass windows, which cast a rainbow of light over the sanctuary.
Enjoy the Courmayeur nightlife
After a day on the slopes or exploring the town’s many attractions, Courmayeur’s lively nightlife scene offers something for everyone, from cozy cocktail bars to lively discos. You can easily start the evening with an aperitivo, a traditional Italian way to wind down after a long day and socialize with friends. Many Courmayeur hotels, restaurants, and bars offer aperitivo specials, which typically include a drink and a selection of small bites.
Additionally, if you are looking for a more sophisticated nightlife experience, Courmayeur has several excellent cocktail bars. These bars offer a carefully selected range of classic and creative cocktails, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The town is also home to several lively discos, where you can dance the night away to the latest hits. These clubs typically have a large dance floor, a DJ, and a bar.
Conclusion
Courmayeur is a place where you can experience the beauty of nature, the thrill of adventure, and the delicious flavors of Italian cuisine. No matter what time of year you visit, you will find plenty of things to do in Courmayeur, and it is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So, feel free to explore some of the top Courmayeur places and things discussed in this article, and feel free to explore more options.
