Best Skiing in Italy?

Claviere

When most people dream of skiing in Italy, they picture Cortina’s glamorous streets, the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites, or the famous slopes of the Aosta Valley. But there is another Italy—quieter, more authentic, and often overlooked. Hidden in Piedmont, close to the French border, lies Claviere, a small mountain village where skiing still feels personal.

Why choose Claviere?

✔ Less crowded than Italy’s famous resorts
✔ Part of the huge Via Lattea ski area
✔ Easy access from Turin
✔ Traditional mountain village atmosphere
✔ Excellent Italian food without the luxury-resort prices
✔ Skiing combined with Piedmont culture

We love places where Italy still feels like Italy—where the evening conversation happens over a plate of local food rather than in a crowded resort bar. Claviere has that feeling. And, with some of the best skiing in Italy, this little resort, located at 1760m, offers everything you could possibly want. Claviere has great skiing in the Milky Way, unbeatable scenery, and is a picturesque little village with well over a thousand years of history.

Claviere is very easy to get to as well; it is only a ninety-minute drive from Turin. Perfect if you are flying into Turin. My advice is to spend at least a couple of nights in Turin before you head up to the slopes. Turin is one of Italy's greatest cities, with so many things to do and sights to see that even a week isn't enough in the city.

Even arriving by train is a great option. Trains in Italy are not only affordable but also comfortable and reliably on time. If you're starting in Torino, you can catch a direct train to Oulx, a lovely little town nestled in the Alps. The ride itself is part of the experience—sit back and watch as the flat plains give way to snow-capped peaks and pine-covered slopes.

Once you arrive in Oulx, getting to Claviere is easy. There’s a regular bus service that winds its way up into the mountains, offering more breathtaking views along the way. It’s a peaceful, picturesque journey—and a stress-free alternative to driving, especially in winter conditions.

Where to Stay in Claviere

The Hotel Clari is my pick; it is right in the little village and offers absolutely everything you might need, including a sauna, a gym, and a play area for the children. They even organize discounts at the nearby ski and snowboard schools! There are a few fancier hotels, like the Hotel Bes & Spa, should you prefer a little more luxury.

The Skiing in Claviere

Cross-country skiing is top-rate here, with some of the best cross-country skiing in Piedmont. The 16 km circuit from Claviere to Monginevro and back is highly recommended by those who know about these things.

If, like me, cross-country is not your thing, then all is far from lost. Claviere and the surrounding area offer over 400 kilometers of great downhill slopes.

The après-ski scene is good. Not quite as lively as Bardonecchia or Sestriere but still lots of fun, and the town boasts some really excellent and typically Piedmontese restaurants. Many reckon that Piedmont's cuisine is the best in Italy, so you're in for a treat. 

Claviere is also a great destination for families with young children.

The village has a ski school for kids, as well as a playground and ice skating rink. The Hotel Clari also has a dedicated play area for children and offers babysitting services upon request.

For those looking for a break from skiing, Claviere and the surrounding area offer a range of activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and dog sledding. The nearby town of Briançon also offers a range of cultural and historical attractions, including a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Make sure you get yourself the excellent value Claviere ski pass, which entitles you to unlimited skiing in Claviere and Cesana too.

Claviere Beyond Skiing: Experience Winter in Italy

A winter trip to Italy does not have to revolve around skiing from morning until afternoon.

One of the joys of visiting a smaller mountain village like Claviere is simply enjoying the atmosphere.

Imagine walking through the village as snow falls gently around you, stopping for a coffee in a warm mountain café, enjoying a long lunch with local specialties, or sitting beside a fireplace with a glass of wine while the mountains turn golden in the afternoon light.

Things to enjoy around Claviere include:

Winter walks

Even non-skiers can enjoy beautiful walks through the snowy Alpine landscape. The fresh mountain air, forests, and views make the area perfect for slowing down and reconnecting with nature.

Piedmont food

The mountains of Piedmont have their own wonderful food traditions. Look out for dishes such as the following:

• Polenta with mountain cheeses
• Rich pasta dishes
• Local sausages
• Mushroom specialities
• Traditional desserts
• Piedmont wines

A day trip to Turin

One of the advantages of Claviere is that you can combine mountain life with culture. Turin offers beautiful squares, museums, cafés, and some of the best chocolate in Italy.

Best time to visit Claviere for skiing

The main ski season generally runs from December until April, although conditions vary from year to year.

For the best combination of snow and fewer crowds:

January and March are often excellent choices.

January usually offers good snow conditions, while March brings longer days and a more relaxed atmosphere.

School holiday periods, especially around Christmas and February, are usually the busiest.

Frequently Asked Questions about Claviere

Please also visit our guides to the other Piedmont resorts:

Limone

Bardonecchia

Sestriere

Sauze d’Oulx

Alagna

Rather ski in the Veneto Dolomites? Click here!