Cervinia is located in NW Italy, almost on the border with Switzerland (100 mls NW of Milan; 117 mls N of Turin Casselle airport) and is set high in the Aosta Valley on the sunny side of the Matterhorn, reached by a steep road with sharp bends.

The main town itself is fairly flat, with gentle slopes to the N. Steep roads to the E of town run to Plan Maison cable-car station, and to the residences and hotels of Giomein, La Vieille, Bardoney and Cielo Alto. Based on the Italian side of the Matterhorn, Cervinia is lift-linked to Zermatt, with 200km of its own runs.

Because of its high altitude, it has a long season, great snow and is an absolute haven for intermediates. The slopes are superb for cruising and mileage skiing, while beginners will find masses of coverage. Advanced skiers will need to head over into Switzerland for extended challenges, although you'll have to pay extra to cross to Zermatt.

The ski school is getting better but, as with many Italian resorts, childcare is rather limited. On the downside, Cervinia is not the most attractive resort and is entirely purpose-built. It was founded in the 1930s by Mussolini and still doesn't cater very well for non-skiers. There are good restaurants on and off the mountain, but their prices are nearly as steep as the Matterhorn itself.

Weekend crowds can put pressure on the old lift system, but also improve the quality of après-ski. Although many hotels are convenient for the slopes, access from some may require an awkward uphill walk.

Overall, Cervinia is great for beginners, intermediates and boarders and much cheaper than its Swiss neighbour. Experts, kids and party animals may not find Cervinia ideal, although the first group do have Zermatt nearby to keep them busy.

Ski Information:

Highest lift: 3489m (11446ft), Lowest lift: 2050m (6725ft), Vertical drop:1439m (4721ft), Number of lifts: 20, Number of slopes: 54, Beginner: 28%, Intermediate: 61%, Expert: 11%, Total piste length: 135km, Snowboard parks: 1