Skiing the Italian Milky Way: A Snowy Paradise for All Levels

The Italian Milky Way (Via Lattea) is a breathtaking ski area straddling the border of Italy and France, offering over 400km of skiable terrain. With its diverse resorts, stunning alpine scenery, and reliable snow conditions, it’s a dream destination for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate cruiser, or an expert thrill-seeker, the Milky Way has the perfect slopes for you.

Sauze d’Oulx – A Perfect Blend of Pistes and Party

Best for: Intermediate and Advanced Skiers, Après-Ski Enthusiasts

Sauze d’Oulx is one of the most popular resorts in the Milky Way, known for its vibrant après-ski scene and fantastic intermediate terrain. The tree-lined runs provide a mix of groomed slopes and off-piste opportunities, making it an ideal choice for those who love variety. While it’s best suited for confident skiers and snowboarders, beginners can also find gentle nursery slopes in the village. Ski Line offer a choice of 17 great locations to stay in Sauze d’Oulx..

Sestriere – A High-Altitude Haven for All Levels

Best for: Beginners to Experts, Snow-Sure Conditions

Sestriere is the highest resort in the Milky Way and offers excellent snow reliability throughout the season. With wide-open pistes, modern lifts, and a good selection of beginner-friendly slopes, it’s perfect for those new to skiing. Advanced skiers can tackle the legendary Kandahar Slalom run, a former World Cup racecourse. Ski Line offer a choice of 9 great hotels for your skiing holiday in Sestriere..

Claviere – A Hidden Gem for Relaxed Skiing

Best for: Families, Beginners, and Intermediate Skiers

Claviere is a charming, quieter resort that’s ideal for families and those looking for a relaxed skiing experience. The gentle slopes and lack of crowds make it a great place to build confidence on the snow. It also provides easy access to Montgenèvre in France, expanding the ski area even further.

Cesana – Gateway to the Milky Way

Best for: Intermediate Skiers, Tranquil Slopes

Nestled in the heart of the Milky Way, Cesana offers a peaceful skiing experience with excellent links to both Sestriere and Claviere. The resort itself has a selection of intermediate-friendly pistes, making it perfect for those who enjoy cruising without the crowds.

Pragelato – Off-Piste and Nordic Paradise

Best for: Advanced Skiers, Backcountry Enthusiasts, Cross-Country Skiing

Pragelato is renowned for its stunning off-piste terrain and cross-country skiing trails. Adventurous skiers can explore untouched powder fields, while Nordic skiers will appreciate the Olympic cross-country courses. It’s a great option for those looking for something beyond the groomed slopes. It’s also home to our most popular Italian Club Med hotel, which is a great choice for skiing in the Milky Way ski area

Why Ski the Italian Milky Way?

• Diverse Terrain: From gentle beginner slopes to thrilling black runs and off-piste areas.
• Great Value: Italian ski resorts tend to be more affordable than their French counterparts.
• Authentic Italian Charm: Enjoy delicious local cuisine and warm hospitality.
• Easy Access: Conveniently reachable from Turin Airport.
• Excellent value for money: cheap lift pass cost

Whether you’re looking for high-altitude thrills, quiet slopes, or a lively après-ski scene, the Italian Milky Way has something for everyone. Pack your skis and get ready to carve through one of Europe’s best ski regions!

The Milky Way ski area has long been a favourite of the Ski Line team. We love its wide, uncrowded slopes, perfect for long, flowing carving turns, as well as the fantastic value offered by its mountain restaurants, especially around the Sportina area. Our top dining recommendation is Ciao Pais, the best restaurant on the mountain, located above Sauze d’Oulx. Our MD and Ski Line founder, Angus, stays at the hotel here, but securing one of its five rooms is nearly impossible unless a regular decides to hang up their skis or, well, something more dramatic happens!

Skiing the Italian Milky Way: A Summary

The Italian Milky Way (Via Lattea) is a stunning ski area spanning Italy and France, offering over 400km of diverse terrain for all levels. Its top resorts cater to different preferences, with Sauze d’Oulx being ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers who enjoy après-ski, while Sestriere offers reliable snow and suits all levels. Claviere is a quiet, family-friendly option, Cesana provides tranquil intermediate slopes, and Pragelato attracts off-piste and Nordic skiing enthusiasts. The region stands out for its affordability, authentic Italian charm, and easy access from Turin. With wide, uncrowded pistes and excellent mountain dining, especially at Ciao Pais, Via Lattea is a must-visit for ski lovers.