Champoluc: piste guide
Extent of the slopes
The gondola from Champoluc goes up to Crest, a mid-mountain nursery area with a further gondola followed by a slow quad chairlift going on to Colle Sarezza. This area is linked to the runs above Frachey via a steep, narrow, bumpy red run, known as the Goat, because of the statue at the top; timid intermediates are better off starting at Frachey. From there, you ride lifts to Colle Bettaforca, for the descent to Gressoney.
Fast lifts
Most lifts are fast chairs and gondolas, but the link with Frachey involves slow chairs. You can avoid these by using the Frachey funicular.
For experts
Off piste is the main attraction. There are few tough on-piste runs. In bad weather, head for the excellent Mandria forest area above Frachey for powder.
For intermediates
There is a good mix of varied pistes that suit confident intermediates. But Champoluc has drawbacks for timid intermediates – as well as the Goat run, the red descent to Champoluc (excellent if you can hack it) can be too much for many. Some people find it worth going to the separate Antagnod area.
For beginners
The high nursery slopes at Crest above Champoluc, served by two moving carpets, are excellent. For longer gentle runs, though, you need to go up the valley to Frachey. Or down the valley to Antagnod.
Snowboarding
Great off piste for experts but not ideal for intermediates or beginners (see above). No drag lifts to worry about though.
For cross-country
There are 17km of trails in Champoluc; but Brusson, down-valley, has the best loops (30km).
Where to Ski and Snowboard
This guide is taken from Where to Ski and Snowboard, edited by Chris Gill and Dave Watts. Chris now produces Where to Ski guides to individual countries. Find out more and receive an exclusive book discount.
