La Thuile Resort Overview
Located in the Aosta Valley, on the Italian side of the Mont Blanc Massif, La Thuile is a charming, traditional Italian ski resort with a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Sitting at 1,450m, with the highest ski lift reaching 2,600m, La Thuile offers an impressive ski area with 152km of skiable terrain.
La Thuile is a former mining town with a rich history, which has been thoughtfully developed into a ski resort. The resort offers a variety of accommodation, ranging from luxurious hotels to cosy, self-catered ski chalets and apartments, with many offering convenient, ski-in-ski-out access. The ski season usually runs from the end of November to mid-April, providing reliable snow conditions throughout the winter.
Skiing in La Thuile
La Thuile, combined with French resort La Rosière, forms the Espace San Bernardo ski area, offering an impressive 152km of pisted terrain. The resort is particularly suited for intermediate and advanced skiers, with an extensive network of red and black runs and off-piste opportunities.
For beginners, there are several nursery slopes in the village and access to an array of gentle blue runs higher up, like the Bellecombe 1 and 2. Intermediate skiers will enjoy the wide, well-groomed red runs, such as the Sansicario and Belvedere. For the more adventurous, La Thuile boasts challenging black runs and excellent off-piste skiing, particularly the black run no.3 from Le Belvedere, which descends a thrilling 1,073m.
Snowboarders and freestyle skiers will love the snow park, located on the San Bernardo slope, which offers various jumps and rails to test your skills.
Is La Thuile Family-Friendly?
La Thuile is an excellent choice for families, offering a relaxed and safe environment. The pedestrianised centre, easy access to the slopes, and a variety of family-friendly accommodation make it a hassle-free choice for families. The resort also offers several non-skiing activities, such as snowshoeing, dog sledding, and ice skating, ensuring there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
Après-Ski Scene in La Thuile
While La Thuile is not known for its wild après-ski, it offers a selection of cosy bars and pubs where you can enjoy a relaxing drink after a day on the slopes. Bar Yeti and La Bricole are popular choices, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a selection of local wines and beers. For those looking for late-night entertainment, Discoteca Club 21 is the place to go, featuring live music and DJ sets.
Dining in La Thuile
La Thuile offers a variety of dining options, from hearty mountain fare to fine Italian cuisine. For a traditional Italian meal, try Ristorante Pepita Café, known for its homemade pasta and local specialities. On the mountain, Lo Riondet is a must-visit, serving delicious regional dishes with stunning views of the Aosta Valley. For something a little more special, Le Coq Rouge offers a gourmet dining experience in a cosy, rustic setting.
How to Get To La Thuile
The nearest airports to La Thuile are Turin (2h), Geneva (2h30m), and Milan Malpensa (2h45m). From the airport, you can either hire a car or take a transfer to the resort. If you are travelling by train, the nearest station is Pre-Saint-Didier (15m transfer).
La Thuile Insider Tips
- Order a Bombardino at Bar Yeti, a traditional Italian après-ski drink made with brandy, egg liqueur, and whipped cream.
- Check out the weekly torchlight descent, a magical spectacle to watch or take part in.
- Don’t miss the chance to ski over to France for the day – just remember to bring your passport!
- Try the local Aosta Valley cuisine, including Fontina cheese and hearty stews.
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