Sestriere is one of Italy's most classic and highest-altitude ski resorts, and a central part of the vast Via Lattea ski system, also known as the Milky Way. The area links several villages on both the Italian and French sides of the Alps and offers a skiing experience with great variety, a long season and terrain suited to both families and advanced skiers.
The resort sits at over 2,000 metres, making it one of Italy's most snow-sure destinations. The combination of altitude, modern infrastructure and open alpine terrain creates a complete setting for anyone seeking high-quality skiing in an Italian setting with international flair.
The skiing – variety, altitude and vast terrain
Via Lattea offers one of Europe's most extensive ski systems, with long runs and a network of lifts that lets you ski between several villages in a single day. The terrain in Sestriere is wide, open and perfect for carving, while the higher sections offer more technical pistes and high-quality natural snow.
Highlights of Sestriere include
- High altitude and snow security, long runs suited to both families and experienced skiers
- A connected ski system towards Sauze d'Oulx and Sansicario
- Terrain shaped by Olympic competitions
This is a resort where both beginners and advanced skiers get a lot out of their ski holiday.
Off-piste and advanced terrain
The area around Sestriere offers freeriding opportunities when snow conditions are stable. The terrain towards the French border area and the higher sections around Monte Fraiteve provide both open spaces and more technical lines for experienced skiers.
Atmosphere and village feel
Sestriere is a modern, functional ski village with a clear international feel. The village consists of hotels, apartments, restaurants and shops focused on skiing as the main activity. The atmosphere is calmer than in many of the Dolomites' resorts but still offers plenty of restaurants, local dishes and a range that works well for both families and groups.
Accommodation – close to the slopes and high standard
Most accommodation in Sestriere is very close to the pistes or has direct access to the lifts. Here you'll find hotels in several categories, apartments, spa accommodation and family-friendly options. The high location means many properties have views over the open alpine terrain and surrounding peaks.
Activities off the slopes
Sestriere offers several winter activities even for those who don't want to ski all day, including cross-country skiing, winter walks, spa, ice skating and trips to other villages in the system. The closeness to France makes the area interesting for travellers who want to discover different cultures in the same week.
Getting here
The easiest way to reach Sestriere is via Turin. The road up the valley is well maintained and relatively quick compared to many other alpine roads. The transfer from the airport normally takes between 1.5 and 2 hours.
Who Sestriere is for
Sestriere suits you if you want snow-sure skiing, large connected areas and a destination that combines Italian style with international alpine character. It's an excellent destination for families, groups, beginners and intermediate skiers, but advanced skiers also appreciate the higher peaks and the terrain towards Sansicario and Sauze d'Oulx.
Explore more ski guides
After Sestriere we return to Switzerland and one of the best ski resorts in the Alps according to the experts, Zermatt.
More information
For piste maps, opening hours and lift status:
Sestriere's official website
