A rite of passage for urbanites living in Milan is the quintessential ski weekend in any of the resort towns of Northern Italy, Switzerland, France, and Austria—reachable in a few hours by car.
Back in January, with the SDA Bocconi Ski Club, I visited Courmayeur, Chamonix, and Montblanc. Instead of skiing (or attempting to learn anyway), I visited the Terme di Pré Saint Didier (natural hot spring spa).
On top of Montblanc (12,000~ feet up)
View from the Terme/spa
Since it has been nearly two months since this weekend trip, I will let the photos do most of the storytelling.
A few notes:
- Montblanc (a.k.a. Montebianco) is reachable via the city of Chamonix, just across the French border with Italy, up a harrowing gondola lift. It is the highest peak in all of Europe.
- If you go to Chamonix, we had an amazing meal at Le Monchu (typical raclette grilled meat and melted cheese, SO GOOD).
- Terme di Pré Saint Didier is a wonderful way to spend a Sunday, with a view of the mountains near Courmayeur. Book well in advance, and go with a friend or partner to feel most comfortable. Extra treatments are recommended (if only for fun), though the massage was underwhelming.
- For a great guide to backpacking Montblanc, check out this article from my friends over at 10 Adventures.
Le Monchu in Chamonix
French raclette tabletop grill for meats and cheeses at Le Monchu in Chamonix
On the way up Montblanc
Chamonix is charming but not nearly as beautiful and quaint as Courmayeur
Not for those scared of heights, I assure you
View from the top!
View from the top!
Up on Montblanc
Up on Montblanc
The temperature on top was -9 celsius, which is ~16 degrees °F
Back at (warmer) ground level!
Maserati in Courmayeur
Ambulanza in Courmayeur
View from the hotel room
