On the Italian side of Mont Blanc is Italy's premier resort. With lifts running as high as 11,000 feet, one can always find skiable snow, and there is a wide choice of runs, although most are best suited for strong intermediates. Courmayeur is split into two major sections, the biggest stretching across the Val Veny from Mont Blanc. There, skiers take cable cars up to high bowls served by chairlifts. Beginners won't find much to their liking here, but the terrain inspires confidence in intermediates who can rest on a number of plateaus separating the steeper sections. The 8,500-foot Cresta Youla is the highest an intermediate will want to go, allowing a solid 3,600-foot vertical drop to Zerotta. Experts with guides can take the cable car all the way up to 9,000-foot Crest Arp.

The least expensive accommodations in Courmayeur are large apartment complexes such as the Residence Universo. The best rooms in town are at the Hotel Pavillon.