Courmayeur Snow Forecast

Tom Macknight from United Kingdom writes:

Visited Courmayeur 27/2/11-6/3/11. and wanted to share some info on the region that might help others. Most intermediates will ski this resort in 2 - 3 days. However, there are endless opportunities to improve your technique among large areas of safe 'semi' off-piste that lie between the prepared pistes. Great opportunities to laugh at each others misfortunes as you learn to tackle the powder. Most hotels in town will involve approx a 10 minute 'yomp' to the gondola. There is a free bus from the bus station to the gondola but the walk from many hotels to the bus station is in the opposite direction so will often be a 5 minute walk anyway. Apres hounds beware, only 2 bars of any real substance and even then only on Thur, Fri and Sats (on our week). Many excellent restaurants, cafes and pizzaria's, however, for the foodies. Do not discount this resort on size, there are some excellent resorts nearby. 2010/11 ski pass price was 206 euro for Courmayeur inc 2 days elsewhere in the valley. However, for an extra 6 euro you can have unlimited Aosta valley pass. We travelled on the free skibus to La Thuille twice. Bus leaves the station at 08.40 and 09.25. Journey time 40 mins. Returns are at 16.05 and 17.15. Be prepared to ditch your 'Britishness' and scramble to load skis and grab a seat, especially at La Thuille on the way home. It is worth the effort though to ski the wide areas that La Thuille has to offer. Once there it is a must to 'go over the top' and experience La Rosiere in France. Some fantastic long wide cruising reds to be found here. You definitely won't ski these resorts in 2- 3 days. We also had a day out in Pila a bit further down the valley at Aosta. Another excellent day out. A service bus from Courmayeur station cost 5.50 euro return and takes 1 hour. Alternatively, a train is available from nearby (5k away) Pre St Didier down to Aosta, less than 10 euro return.