Valgrisenche

The ski area is located in Chez Carral, near the main village, and offers approximately 5.5 km of alpine ski runs. The skiable area extends roughly between 1,621 and 1,805 metres above sea level: the vertical drop is limited and does not allow for long descents, but the runs are varied and well proportioned to the size of the resort.

The ski area is served by the Chez Carral-Bénévy fixed-grip four-seater chairlift, which began operating in 2008, and by two conveyor belts serving the beginners’ area and the play area. The chairlift is short and functional, although not as fast as more modern detachable lifts; the compact layout of the ski area nevertheless makes it easy to get around and ski without long waits.

The easiest runs and conveyor belts make Valgrisenche particularly suitable for families, children and beginners. Skiers who already have good technique will find several short but interesting red and black runs, as well as sections used for training by ski clubs and competitive teams. For experienced skiers, the extent of the area is limited, but the technical slopes provide good opportunities to work on turns and carving.

The valley is known for its cold climate and generally abundant snowfall. Some of the runs also have artificial snowmaking. The intimate setting and low visitor numbers are two of the resort’s main strengths, making it ideal for those who prefer to ski at a relaxed pace, away from large ski areas and crowded slopes.

At the base of the lifts there is a snow fun park with a conveyor belt, runs for bobsleighs, sledges and tubes, and games for younger children. The winter offering also includes three cross-country ski loops, totalling approximately 8 km, snowshoeing trails and numerous opportunities for ski touring.

Valgrisenche is in fact best known among enthusiasts of ski mountaineering, freeriding and heli-skiing: its valleys, glaciers and extensive high-altitude slopes offer highly interesting routes, to be tackled with suitable preparation and accompanied by mountain guides.

It is not the right resort for those looking for many kilometres of runs or a long day spent constantly skiing different pistes. Instead, it is a pleasant choice for learning, training, spending a day in the snow with children, or discovering a quieter and more authentic side of the Aosta Valley mountains.