Ski resorts
Cervinia: skiing on the Italian side of the Matterhorn
The Matterhorn right above the village, sunny pistes and skiing all the way to Switzerland. This is Breuil-Cervinia, and the hotels where Italian hospitality meets some of the highest slopes in the Alps.
On the Italian side of the Matterhorn the mountain is called Monte Cervino, and the village at its foot is Breuil-Cervinia. Here you see the famous peak from a completely different angle than from Zermatt, and the mood is unmistakably Italian: espresso at the bar, long lunches in the sun and a relaxed rhythm that makes the ski holiday pure pleasure.
Cervinia sits high, and its slopes link up with Zermatt on the Swiss side. That means you can ski in two countries on the same day, with lunch in Italy and coffee in Switzerland.
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One of the highest resorts in the Alps
The village sits high, and the ski area reaches up towards the glacier at Plateau Rosa. The altitude brings good snow through much of the season, and the highest runs offer views across the Alps in every direction.
Cervinia is particularly known for long, wide and sunny descents that suit most levels.
The slopes and the trip to Zermatt
From Cervinia you can ski up towards Plateau Rosa and down to Zermatt on the Swiss side. It is one of the most spectacular ski tours in the Alps, with the Matterhorn as your companion the whole way. Remember to check that your lift pass covers both sides.
On the Italian side you will also find long runs down towards Valtournenche, perfect for a full day on the slopes.
A day in Cervinia
The day starts with an espresso and a cornetto, before the gondola carries you up the mountain. The morning can be spent on the long runs beneath the Matterhorn, and lunch is an important part of the day, with pasta, polenta and a glass of wine on a sunny terrace.
In the afternoon it is time for one last descent as the sun turns the mountain pink, before aperitivo in the village.
When is the best time to visit Cervinia?
Cervinia often has a long season thanks to its altitude. December and January bring wintry conditions, while March and April offer sunshine and long days. Christmas week and the Italian holidays are busy, so book early.
Skiing with children in Cervinia
The wide, gentle runs make Cervinia a great choice for families and beginners. There are ski schools and quiet areas, and the village is small and easy to navigate. Choose a hotel near the lifts to keep daily life simple.
Food and evenings in Cervinia
Evenings in Cervinia are all about good food. Restaurants serve dishes from the Aosta Valley, such as fonduta and polenta, alongside wines from northern Italy. After dinner you can stroll through the village and watch the Matterhorn stand as a dark silhouette against the stars.
Getting to Cervinia
The nearest major airports are Turin and Milan. From there you drive through the Aosta Valley up to Breuil-Cervinia. Buses and transfers also run during the season.
Where to stay in Cervinia
Stay close to the lifts for a short walk to the slopes, or choose a hotel with a spa for the evenings. Here are three hotels we would happily choose.
Hermitage Hotel: luxury with a view
A luxury mountain hotel with a spa, close to the Breuil-Cervinia gondola.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hermitage Hotel
Hotel Excelsior Planet: ski-in/ski-out
A hotel with ski-in/ski-out access and a free ski bus, close to the lifts.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Excelsior Planet
Hotel Breithorn: simple and central
A hotel with ski storage, close to the Breuil-Cervinia ski area.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Breithorn
Want to compare? See all our ski resorts or read about skiing in Zermatt.
Frequently asked questions about skiing in Cervinia
Where should I stay in Cervinia?
Hermitage Hotel offers a spa and luxury close to the gondola, Hotel Excelsior Planet is ski-in/ski-out, and Hotel Breithorn is a simpler option close to the ski area.
Can you ski from Cervinia to Zermatt?
Yes, the Cervinia ski area links with Zermatt on the Swiss side via Plateau Rosa. Check that your lift pass covers both sides.
Is Cervinia good for beginners?
Yes, Cervinia is known for long, wide and gentle runs that suit beginners and families well.
How do you get to Cervinia?
Fly to Turin or Milan and drive through the Aosta Valley to Breuil-Cervinia. Buses and transfers also run during the season.