Breuil-Cervinia, often referred to simply as Cervinia, stands as one of the premier ski resorts in Italy. Strategically located at the Aosta Valley's terminus and framed by the iconic Matterhorn, this high-altitude haven offers a wealth of intermediate cruising terrains.
Here's a practical guide we've put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Cervinia ski holiday. You're going to learn everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and even the best spots to grab a bite or chill out after skiing. But that's not all! At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some really handy contact numbers and links.
Let's get started!
Breuil-Cervinia, Italy - overview
- Where is Breuil-Cervinia?
- Breuil-Cervinia the resort
- Breuil-Cervinia ski area
- Skiing in Breuil-Cervinia
- Breuil-Cervinia ski season dates
- Breuil-Cervinia snow history
- Restaurants in Breuil-Cervinia
- Things to do in Breuil-Cervinia
- Breuil-Cervinia apres ski, and nightlife
- Breuil-Cervinia resort map
- Breuil-Cervinia tourist information
Where is Breuil-Cervinia?
Breuil-Cervinia is located in the Aosta Valley region of northern Italy, at the base of the Matterhorn mountain.
For a detailed view of Breuil-Cervinia's location, you can explore it on Google Maps.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
Breuil-Cervinia the resort
- Resort altitude: 2050 m
- Resort permanent residents: 700
Cervinia, originally a climbing village, has blossomed into one of Italy's prime ski destinations. The compact, car-free town boasts a center adorned with cobbled streets, rich in historic charm and modern aesthetics. Amidst its vibrant main street, you can discover a wealth of shops, bars, and restaurants, echoing Italy's rich tradition of style and gastronomy. The breathtaking views from Cervinia, set in a high-altitude basin between the iconic Matterhorn and Piccolo Cervino, are nothing short of spectacular. Accommodation varies, with many choices situated within the village heart, yet several ski-in/ski-out hotels conveniently perched just above the central area. While the après-ski scene is more refined, it doesn't lack vigor, especially during weekends. A remarkable feature of Cervinia is the price point, especially when compared to neighboring Switzerland.
Pros | Cons |
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Phenomenal views and landscapes | Lifts often close during high winds |
Excellent snow quality & reliability | Drive up to Cervinia village can become challenging during bad weather |
Ideal for beginners and intermediates | There's not a huge amount for expert skiers, and snowboarders |
Linked with Zermatt in Switzerland | Sometimes, strong winds and low clouds can make the conditions a bit challenging |
Here is how Breuil-Cervinia looks like
Watch Breuil-Cervinia on YouTube .
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Breuil-Cervinia ski area
- Summit elevation: 3480 m
- Kilometres of pistes: 150 km
- Vertical drop: 1430 m
- Ski lifts: 16
Breuil-Cervinia, part of the larger
Matterhorn Ski Paradise area, offers an expansive skiing experience with 150 km of pistes in the Italian sector, stretching beneath the southern face of the imposing Monte Cervino. The area boasts 60 pistes (12 greens, 30 blues, 14 reds, and 4 blacks), serviced by 19 lifts, and it unfolds into two main sectors:
- Breuil-Cervinia: The central hub of the ski area, located in a sunny bowl of slopes, caters to all levels of skiers. It's known for its long, wide, well-groomed slopes, and an exceptional learn-to-ski area at Plan Maison, right under Monte Cervino. While on-piste options for expert skiers may be limited, the off-piste powder offers excellent opportunities for advanced riders.
- Valtournenche: Situated further down the valley, this sector predominantly features intermediate pistes that extend into the valley. Its highlights include the 1,400m vertical valley run from Cime Bianche through Salette to Valtournenche, lined with several restaurants and bars. Though more exposed, it provides a delightful experience, especially the descent to the gondola base and car park.
Skiing in Breuil-Cervinia
Beginners
Cervinia's nursery slope, complemented by a long magic carpet and a nearby chairlift, serves as the perfect starting point. As beginners gain confidence, they can transition to the expansive flat areas around Plan Maison and the gentle blue trails higher up. Notably, fast learners often find themselves reaching the resort's zenith within just a few days, descending via the network of blue trails.
Intermediates
This resort could very well be described as an intermediate skier's paradise. Its vast terrain, consisting of wide and rolling pistes descending from the Swiss border, offers endless opportunities for exploration. Skiers can indulge in the iconic runs leading to Valtournenche or traverse the long Ventina red run. Additionally, with the option of upgrading to the Zermatt lift pass, intermediates can unlock a whopping 295 km of blue and red slopes in the Matterhorn Ski Paradise.
Advanced
While Cervinia might not be a hotspot for experts, it does offer some tantalizing opportunities. There are several marked black runs, with Black 59 being particularly notable for its steep descent and challenging mogul section. Despite its limited black pistes, when it snows, the untouched off-piste terrains become an expert's playground, remaining pristine longer than in many other resorts.
Off-piste
While Cervinia isn't traditionally known for its off-piste skiing, those seeking fresh powder will be delighted post-snowfall, as the untouched terrains remain pristine for an extended period. However, it's essential to employ a guide due to the area's high-mountain terrain.
Glacier skiing
The Theodul glacier, perched on the Klein Matterhorn, is a realm of impeccable snow quality. Accessed by Europe's highest cable car, this glacier boasts a selection of wide blues and gentle red slopes, offering a serene skiing experience amidst panoramic views.
Snowboarding
Snowboarders will find the expansive, wide runs of Cervinia particularly appealing, not to mention the minimal drag lifts. The resort also features a prominent snow park near the Red 27 run, offering a plethora of jumps, tricks, and a speedy boardercross course.
Breuil-Cervinia ski season dates
It's possible to ski in Cervinia year-round, thanks to its proximity to the Plateau Rosa glacier and the 25 km of slopes available for summer skiing. If you're planning a ski holiday to Cervinia this season, be sure to explore our Cervinia ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Breuil-Cervinia snow history
Breuil-Cervinia offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 37 cm and 40 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.4 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 38 cm but it occurs more frequently, averaging 3.8 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of March, traditionally the snowiest week in Breuil-Cervinia, with an impressive 57 cm of snow over 4.6 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 41 cm of snow over 4.5 days.
Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
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December | 37 cm | 3.5 days |
January | 40 cm | 3.4 days |
February | 38 cm | 3.8 days |
March | 47 cm | 4.3 days |
April | 41 cm | 4.5 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
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Restaurants in Breuil-Cervinia
Mountain restaurants
- Ristorante Ventina: Set amidst the snow-capped peaks, this restaurant offers authentic Italian flavors, and specialities.
- Ristorante Cime Bianche: Perched high in the mountains, Cime Bianche provides its customers with hearty Italian dishes.
- La Motta chez Gabriel: A charming alpine retreat, this establishment serves up traditional mountain cuisine. Indeed, a favorite stop for many skiers looking for a warm meal in a cozy setting.
Resort restaurants
- Wood: Located in the heart of the resort, this is a modern and chic eatery, known for its innovative twist on classic Italian dishes.
- Grivola: A true representation of Italian fine dining, Grivola offers a curated menu filled with local delicacies.
- Ymeletrob: A fusion of traditional and contemporary, Ymeletrob is known for its eclectic menu and warm ambiance.
- Metzelet: A gem in the resort, Metzelet combines the flavors of the Alps with a touch of modernity.
Things to do in Breuil-Cervinia
- Dog sledding
- Bowling
- Indoor swimming pool
- Boardercross
- Cross-country skiing
- Dog sledding
- Ice climbing
- Outdoor ice skating
- Paragliding
- Snow tubing
- Snowmobiling
- Skidooing
- Snowshoe walking
- Winter walking paths
Breuil-Cervinia apres ski and nightlife
Après ski bars
- The Aprés Ski Bar: This bar, at the Hotel Principe delle Nevi, boasts a great atmosphere with picturesque mountain views.
- The Bar: Located at the Hotel Grivola, this bar offers a curated selection of beverages, within a cozy atmosphere.
- Lo Copa Pan: This lively bar with a rustic charm is a hub for skiers and snowboarders. With its great music and warm vibes, it's the perfect place to mingle and enjoy the après ski atmosphere.
Nightclubs
- Lino’s: A go-to for those looking to dance the night away.
- The Yeti: A must-visit for night owls in Cervinia.
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Breuil-Cervinia resort map
Download Cervinia resort map here
- Tourist office website: lovevda.it
- Tourist office phone: +0039. 0166.949136
- Tourist office email: cervino@turismo.vda.it
- For visa & passport travel advice, visit here