Ski resorts
Sestriere: skiing in the Via Lattea and where to stay
Olympic slopes from 2006, a ski area reaching into France and a village built for skiing as early as the 1930s. This is Sestriere, and the hotels with ski-in/ski-out access.
Sestriere sits high in Piedmont, on a mountain pass between two valleys. The village was built for skiers as early as the 1930s, and its distinctive tower hotels from that era still stand as landmarks. Today Sestriere is part of the Via Lattea, the Milky Way, one of the largest ski areas in Italy.
During the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics several Alpine events were held here, and the slopes still carry an Olympic feel.
The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You choose your own dates and room on the hotel page.
A village with history
Sestriere was developed as a ski resort in the 1930s and was one of the first places in Italy built with skiing in mind. Its round tower hotels from that time remain a hallmark of the village.
The Via Lattea: the Milky Way
The Via Lattea links Sestriere with Sauze d’Oulx, Sansicario, Claviere and Montgenèvre on the French side. It creates a large and varied ski area, and you can ski in two countries on the same day.
The 2006 Olympic slopes
During the 2006 Winter Olympics several Alpine events were held in Sestriere. Many of the runs are now open to everyone, and it is special to ski where the world’s best racers once competed for medals.
A day in Sestriere
The morning starts with ski-in/ski-out access and a run on the high, sunny slopes. After lunch you can ski on towards Sauze d’Oulx or across the border to Montgenèvre.
In the afternoon an espresso in the village, a spa and a good Italian dinner await.
When is the best time to visit Sestriere?
The season usually runs from December to April. The altitude often brings good snow, and January and February can deliver cold, clear days. March offers more sunshine and longer days.
Skiing with children in Sestriere
Sestriere has ski schools and family-friendly runs, and the village is compact and easy to get around. Many hotels sit close to the slopes, making daily life simple for families.
Food and evenings in Sestriere
Evenings in Sestriere bring food from Piedmont, one of Italy’s most celebrated culinary regions. You can taste risotto, polenta and regional wines in restaurants ranging from simple trattorias to more refined kitchens.
Skiing in two countries
Perhaps the best thing about the Via Lattea is the chance to cross the border. From Claviere you continue to Montgenèvre in France, where you can have lunch on the French side before skiing back to Italy.
Getting to Sestriere
The nearest airport is Turin. From there you drive or take a transfer up through the valleys to Sestriere.
The tower hotels of Sestriere
The round tower hotels of Sestriere were built in the 1930s and remain among the best-known buildings in the Italian Alps. They are reminders of the early days of ski holidays, when Sestriere was one of the first places in Italy built with skiing in mind.
Tips before you book
Choose a lift pass for the whole Via Lattea if you want to ski to Sauze d’Oulx and across the border to Montgenèvre. Book early for Christmas and the Italian holidays, and choose a ski-in/ski-out hotel to make the most of your days. Turin is also close enough for a day trip.
Where to stay in Sestriere
In Sestriere you can stay ski-in/ski-out with views across the slopes. Here are two hotels we would happily choose.
Grand Hotel Sestriere: a village classic
A hotel with two restaurants and a free ski bus, in Sestriere.
Book your stay: See rooms at Grand Hotel Sestriere
Hotel Principi di Piemonte: ski-in/ski-out
A hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, ski storage and lift passes.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Principi di Piemonte
Want to compare? See all our ski resorts or read about skiing in Cervinia.
Frequently asked questions about skiing in Sestriere
Where should I stay in Sestriere?
Grand Hotel Sestriere is centrally located with two restaurants and a ski bus, while Hotel Principi di Piemonte offers ski-in/ski-out access.
What is the Via Lattea?
The Via Lattea is the ski area linking Sestriere, Sauze d’Oulx, Sansicario, Claviere and Montgenèvre in France.
Was Sestriere an Olympic venue?
Yes, several Alpine events at the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics were held in Sestriere.
How do you get to Sestriere?
Fly to Turin and drive or take a transfer up to Sestriere.