Alagna

1. Lift-Accessed Backcountry

Alagna offers expansive lift-served off-piste terrain. The cable cars and funicular reach high into the Monte Rosa backcountry (up to 3,700 m), opening vast powder fields and couloirs that seem to stretch on forever . You’ll use the lifts to gain elevation, then drop into untracked bowls and glacier-carved valleys – all without long uphill slogs.

2. Huge Vertical Drops

Few resorts can rival the 2,000–2,500 m continuous vertical that Alagna delivers. From the top lifts, you can ski from the high glacier all the way down to the valley floor for run after run of leg-burning bliss. For example, the legendary “La Balma” off-piste descent boasts about 2,000 m of vertical drop and is a must-do run for anyone claiming to have skied Alagna.

3. Freerider’s Paradise

Alagna’s reputation among expert skiers is well-earned. Steep chutes, open bowls, and long powder runs abound, with some of the most challenging off-piste lines in the Alps accessible right from the lifts. This is the place for advanced-intermediate to expert skiers to push their limits on natural, un-groomed terrain – big lines and deep powder are the norm here, not the exception.

4. Authentic Italian Alps Experience

Unlike glitzy mega-resorts, Alagna is a quaint alpine village that has kept its soul. Charming centuries-old Walser farmhouses, a historic church steeple, and friendly locals give the town an old-world ambiance. You’ll savor the Piedmont region’s renowned cuisine (think rich polenta, local cheeses like Toma, and hearty risotto) and relax in cozy family-run bars – all adding cultural flavor to your ski adventure.

5. Uncrowded & Unspoiled

Alagna truly is a “best-kept secret” of the Alps. Even in peak season, you won’t find the highway-like crowds of more famous resorts. Instead, you’ll often feel like you have the mountain to yourself – carving fresh tracks in quiet powder stashes and soaking in the solitude of high alpine vistas. The après-ski scene is low-key and intimate (an Aperol Spritz by the fire, anyone?), which perfectly suits those more interested in tomorrow’s first tracks than in all-night parties.

Q: What do you recommend packing?

A: Please see the detailed packing list below.

Q: Will I be required to sign a waiver? 

A: Yes, all participants must sign a waiver as a condition of registration. Click here to review the waiver.

Q: Do I need to share a room?

A: No, if you'd feel more comfortable please inquire about our single supplement.

Q: What happens if ability levels are different in the group? 

A:We keep ratios reasonable to manage this and we do our best to create a compatible mix in the presale of the trip.  

Equipment:

• Skis and snowboards (touring setup if required)

• Boots

• Bindings

• Poles

• Helmet & goggles

• Gloves/mitts

• Waterproof outerwear

• Variety of warm layers

• Backpack (25L)

• Avalanche safety Gear (shovel, probe, beacon)

Other items:

• Slippers

• Sunscreen

• Buff/balaclava

• Lip protection

• Sunglasses

• Headlamp

• Water bottle

• Camera/phone

Don't Forget:

• Passport

• R/X / over the counter medications

• Power converter

• Travel & Personal Insurance

• Baggage

• Flight check in time

• Credit Card / Cash

Morning — Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at the hotel (think freshly baked breads, eggs, fruit, and Italian coffee). By 8:30, we meet at the ski room to grab our gear and head out. Your guides will conduct a quick avalanche beacon check each morning before we set off. Then it’s a short stroll to the lifts to catch the first ride up. As you ascend, take in the sunrise lighting up Monte Rosa’s peaks – you’ll be raring to go!

Mid-day — Typically, we ski approximately 3 hours in the morning before taking a lunch break. Around 12:30 PM we’ll pause at a rifugio (mountain hut) or slope-side restaurant for lunch. This is your chance to sample authentic local fare – perhaps a bowl of hot polenta with melted cheese, fresh pasta, or a hearty soup – and yes, you can order a quick espresso to recharge . Lunch is not included in the package, so bring some euros; dishes are usually reasonably priced, and splitting a carafe of local red wine among friends is never a bad idea! The break also allows the group to relax and share stories from the morning’s runs.

Afternoon — After lunch, it’s back on the mountain for more adventures. The afternoon might involve seeking out new zones with fresh powder or refining skills on challenging terrain we identified earlier. Our guides often use this time for on-hill coaching – giving you tips as you tackle that chopped-up snow or try a trickier line. Expect to ski until lifts close (around 3:30–4:00 PM in winter). By the last run, the legs are pleasantly fatigued and the valley’s afternoon light is gorgeous for photos. We then ski or download by lift back to the village.

Evening — Upon returning to the hotel, a bit of après-ski is in order. You might grab a beer or vin brulé (mulled wine) at a local bar with the group, or simply soak in the hotel’s spa to rejuvenate. Each evening around 7:00 PM, we gather for dinner (included) at the hotel or a nearby restaurant. It’s a time to feast on Italian mountain cuisine – three courses of goodness like homemade gnocchi, braised meats, and tiramisu for dessert. Over dinner, relive the day’s highlights and laugh about any wipeouts. Afterward, you’re free to socialize – some nights might involve a brief stroll through the village or a nightcap at the hotel bar, while other nights you’ll welcome an early bedtime. Rest up, because tomorrow we do it all again, diving into more of Alagna’s incredible terrain!