Sifting through a million different ski holiday brochures, each one containing a million different ski resorts…..where do you start? There are hundreds of resorts to look at in the Alps alone, but skiing in Italy remains special. Is It the Italian Charm? Culture? Food? Hospitality? Or is it that little something else that makes skiing in Italy just that little bit more special?

Sitting proudly above the region’s capital, Aosta, nestled between Monte Bianco and Monte Cervino (aka the Matterhorn) is the winter resort of Pila. Certainly not as well-known as its more famous neighbours Courmayeur or Cevinia, Pila is a hidden gem of a resort that fully deserves its own recognition.

With a north facing, modern lift system and snow sure (with 95% snow making coverage)… you are pretty much guaranteed good skiing. This may sound like other ski resorts thus far, don’t be fooled. Pila is set in a natural bowl offering beautiful views, wide open pistes with tree-lined skiing and a superb variety of runs to suit every ability. The skiing starts at 1800m, at the top you will reach 2705m overlooking Monte Grivola and the Gran Paradiso National Parc. One of the finest things about Pila is the piste grooming. If it’s perfect, pristine corduroy you’re looking for, then Pila is the place for you. The lift company go above and beyond to ensure that every morning the pistes are not groomed…..but GROOMED!! You have to see it to believe it. If you have any experience of skiing in other resorts or countries you’ll be amazed.

As you would expect with most Italian resorts, Pila has an abundance of great eateries. Italian dining is something else but you will be well catered for whether it’s a light bite or a proper sit down and a cheeky “vino rosso”. World class food and drink but at Italian prices. Places worthy of special mention:

1) The Society Bar (Societe Anonyme de Consommation). A worldie, great food, great terrace, tucked away and bypassed by most!

2) La Baraka. At the top of the Chamole chairlift, huge terrace overlooking the Aosta valley with superb food.

3) Trattoria dei Maestri. Be prepared, excellent food great hospitality, you’ll roll out……

I am lucky, very lucky. I have been skiing in Pila and the Aosta Valley for over 30 years. I don’t want to go anywhere else! The Valle D’Aosta is an amazing, beautiful place to be but there is truly something special about Pila, it feels like home. It’s not flashy, it’s certainly not the biggest but what it lacks in that regard it makes up for in other areas. It isn’t another faceless behemoth of a ski area. It’s charming, the locals are friendly, it’s a place that is perfect for families, groups, beginners and adventurers alike. That’s why I’ll be back there again this winter.

See you on the piste!