Bardonecchia ski resort lies in the Piedmont region, on the Italian side of the Frejus Tunnel which separates France and Italy. Named as one of Italy's first ski towns in 1934, Bardonecchia is located in a sunny basin between two mountains. There are several historical sites scattered around the village, which has a population of slightly over 3,000 people. At 4265 ft (1300 metres) it sits surrounded by beautiful mountains whose peaks reach heights of more than 11482 ft (3500 metres) and it is undoubtedly one of the most stunning spots of the Western Alps. This beautiful scenic resort consists of 6 villages: Fregiusia, Les Arnaus, Melezet, Millaures, Rochemolles and Pian del Sole. It is made up of four skiing areas with 140km of well groomed trails: Fregiusia Jafferau, Campo Smith Colomion, Les Arnauds, Mélezet Valle Stretta.

Bardonecchia's higher ski area, Jafferau, is best for intermediate to advanced skiers and riders, Campo Smith is lower and is suitable for beginners. Many of the slopes are quite challenging. Experts will find 6 runs and plenty of off trail skiing and riding. The most breath-taking views can be had from the descents which begin high above the woods. The lower level trails weave their way through fir-trees and larches with a difference of 4921 ft (1500 metres) from top to bottom. Along the trails and at the departure points there are a number of bars, restaurants and cafés where skiers can take a break and do a bit of sunbathing too. Extensive artificial snow-making machinery guarantees perfect conditions throughout the whole winter season. The Milky Way and Trois Vallées ski areas are also easily accessible by car from Bardonecchia.

Bardonecchia is one of Italy's oldest ski resorts, built around a residential town. The town itself is a sunny market town with fantastic views. Accommodation options range from hotels and pensions to chalets or apartments. Get a real sense of village life and traditions through the rich tapestry of local food, wine and crafts available in the town. There are plenty of restaurants and bars as well as 3 Nightclubs.Nightlife is a lot quieter than at other resorts, but Bardonecchia can become hectic during the weekend when there is an influx of skiers and snowboarders from Turin. Prices are generally very reasonable for everything. Many of the hotels, bars and restaurants speak some English as well. Activities are wide-ranging from numerous shows and events at the Palazzo delle Feste to the shops and boutiques of Via Medail. The resort also offers a natural ice skating rink, cross-country skiing, indoor swimming pool with a sauna, fitness room, a cinema, ice hockey, horseback riding, hiking, and a sports center. Sightseers can enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery in the Valle Stretta towards Lago Verde and at Rochemolles or visit the sights of Turin.

The quickest and cheapest way to travel to Bardonecchia ski resort is to find one of the many cheap flights to Turin, Chambery or Milan Linate airports. Bardonecchia lies 60 miles from Caselle airport at Turin, which is the closest international airport. From Turin city you can get to the mountains pretty fast via the TGV train which takes less than 1 hour, you then take a bus that can take you up to any of the 3 skiing areas.

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Mountain Information
Resort Altitude 1300 m
Vertical Drop 1500 m
Top Lift 2750m
Lifts 23
Total Runs 49,140 km
Longest Run 6 km
Advanced Runs 6
Intermediate Runs 33
Beginner 10
Cross Country 17 km
Snowfall Average 10m

For more info, click www.bardonecchiaski.com