Cervinia is a premier ski destination known for its extensive terrain, reliable snow conditions and breathtaking scenery. Located at 2,050 metres, this high-altitude resort is part of the Aosta Valley in Italy, and shares its ski area with Zermatt in Switzerland, offering skiers and snowboarders an unparalleled experience with over 360km of interconnected pistes. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced skier, Cervinia has something to offer everyone. Read on to discover our complete guide to skiing in Cervinia.
Cervinia Ski Area
The Cervinia ski area is part of the larger Breuil-Cervinia Valtournenche Zermatt domain, renowned for its vast and varied terrain. The ski area consists of approximately 150 km of marked pistes on the Italian side, with runs that cater to all skill levels. The highest point of skiing reaches 3,899 metres on the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, providing one of the longest vertical drops in the world, descending over 2,000 metres down to the village.
Beginner Skiing in Cervinia
Cervinia is an excellent choice for beginners, with its wide, gentle slopes and consistent snow conditions. The Plan Maison area is particularly well-suited for novices, featuring numerous nursery slopes and easy runs. The blue pistes in this area, such as piste number 5, provide a safe and enjoyable environment for learning. As beginners gain confidence, they can explore the longer blue runs like the Ventina, a 7 km run that descends from Plateau Rosa at 3,480 metres down to Cervinia, offering stunning views and a rewarding experience without being overly challenging.
Intermediate Skiing in Cervinia
Intermediate skiers will find Cervinia a paradise of long, cruisy blue and red runs. The Cretaz area, accessible directly from the town centre, offers a variety of red runs that are perfect for refining your technique. Notable runs for intermediates include piste number 7, which provides a great balance of challenge and enjoyment. Another must-try is the red run 8, which offers beautiful views of the Matterhorn and a thrilling descent. For those looking to venture into Zermatt, the interconnected area expands the options significantly, with more varied terrain and scenic runs.
Advanced Skiing in Cervinia
Advanced skiers have plenty to keep them occupied in Cervinia. The resort boasts several challenging black runs. The most famous black run is the Furggen, which descends from the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Known for its steep gradient and mogul fields, this run is not for the faint-hearted. Additionally, the black run number 59 offers a thrilling descent with spectacular views.
Off-piste Skiing in Cervinia
Cervinia offers a wealth of off-piste skiing opportunities for those seeking adventure beyond the groomed runs. The lift-served off-piste areas provide easy access to some of the best powder in the Alps. The Vallone di Cime Bianche is a popular spot, offering a vast expanse of untouched snow and challenging terrain. The descent from the Theodul Glacier into Zermatt is another favourite, providing a thrilling ride through varied snow conditions and stunning alpine scenery. It’s crucial to hire a local guide when skiing off-piste in Cervinia to ensure safety and make the most of the terrain.
Snowparks in Cervinia
Freestyle enthusiasts will be delighted with Cervinia’s dedicated snowpark. Located at Plan Maison, the Indian Park is one of the largest in Europe and features a variety of jumps, rails, and boxes to suit all levels. The park is meticulously maintained and offers different lines for beginners, intermediates and advanced riders. Additionally, the natural terrain around the park provides ample opportunities for backcountry freestyle sessions.
Conclusion
Cervinia stands out as a top ski destination with its extensive, high-altitude terrain and spectacular views. From gentle nursery slopes for beginners to challenging black runs and off-piste areas for experts, there is something for everyone in this Italian gem. The seamless connection to Zermatt further enhances the skiing experience, making it a must-visit for any winter sports enthusiast. Whether you’re looking to cruise down long, scenic runs or test your skills in the snowpark, Cervinia offers an unforgettable skiing adventure.
