A complete guide to Sestriere

Sestriere, is known for being one of the earliest purpose-built ski resorts in the world, dating back to the 1930s. Developed by Giovanni Agnelli of FIAT, Sestriere among all the other Italian ski resorts has a rich history in winter sports and has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the Winter Olympics in 2006.

Here's a practical guide we've put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Sestriere ski holiday. You're going to learn everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and even the best spots to grab a bite or chill out after skiing. But that's not all! At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some really handy contact numbers and links.

Let's get started!

Sestriere, Italy - overview

1. Where is Sestriere?
2. Sestriere the resort
3. Sestriere ski area
4. Skiing in Sestriere
5. Sestriere ski season dates
6. Sestriere snow history
7. Restaurants in Sestriere
8. Things to do in Sestriere
9. Sestriere apres ski, and nightlife
10. Sestriere resort map
11. Practical information

Where is Sestriere?

Sestriere is located in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy, near the French border.

Nearest airport

• Turin Caselle (111 km)

Transfer time

• Turin Caselle (1hr 24 min)

Sestriere the resort

• Resort altitude: 2035 m
• Resort permanent residents: 939

Sestriere, Italy's first purpose-built ski resort, combines modern convenience with a rich history. Created by FIAT founder Giovanni Agnelli as a retreat for workers, and further developed for the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics, Sestriere now stands as a modern, trendy ski destination. Its iconic hotel towers, a symbol of the village, reflect a fascinating blend of history and contemporary design. Many accommodations, including a range of good value hotels and the former Olympic Village's self-catered options, are strategically located next to the slopes or just a short walk from the lifts. This layout ensures that you can easily transition from your room to the slopes. The resort is known for its laid-back après ski atmosphere. With over 50 restaurants, you have a plethora of dining options, ranging from cozy in-resort eateries to more vibrant choices like the Pinky bar, which becomes a hub of activity and live music from the afternoon.
                                                                                                           

Pros	Cons
High altitude resort	Limited beginner runs
Ideal for intermediate skiers	Can be crowded on weekends
Direct access to other Via Lattea resorts like Sauze d’Oulx and Sansicario	The village can feel somewhat outdated
Wide variety of off-piste options	Lift systhem can be prone to bad weather closures

Here is what it's like at Sestriere resort

(Ref: John Ritchie)

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Sestriere ski area

• Summit elevation: 2840 m
• Kilometres of pistes: 80 km ( 400 km - Vialattea)
• Vertical drop: 1000 m
• Ski lifts: 19

Sestriere, a key part of the larger Milky Way (Via Lattea) ski area, offers access to over 400 km of ski runs spanning across Italy and France. The resort itself comprises 80 km of skiable terrain, distributed across 66 pistes (24 blues, 30 reds, 12 blacks) served by 19 lifts. The ski area is divided into four main skiing sectors:

1. Front de neige: Located near the central part of Sestriere, this sector features a blend of blue and red runs, suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers. It is also well-equipped with amenities, including ski schools and rental shops.
2. Monte Sises (2600 m): Offering a variety of slopes, this sector caters to intermediate and advanced skiers. It provides a mix of red and black runs.
3. Monte Motta/Banchetta (2823 m): These areas are known for their challenging terrains, including some of the most difficult black pistes in the resort. Ideal for expert skiers only.
4. Monte Fraiteve (2701 m): Serving as a link to the broader Vialattea, this sector is popular for those looking to explore beyond Sestriere’s own runs and experience the vast terrain of the Milky Way.

Skiing in Sestriere

Beginners

Beginners will find the ski school and nursery slopes conveniently located in the town center. The Baby SX and Jolly drag lifts lead to gentle blue runs, perfect for practicing newly learned skills. For those gaining confidence, the blues in the Borgata area are ideal for refining turns and techniqu

Intermediates

Intermediate skiers can explore the wide, open red runs at the peaks of Mount Motta and Banchetta, or enjoy the picturesque, tree-lined slopes down Borgata. With Sestriere’s connection to the vast Milky Way ski area, intermediates have a plethora of runs to discover, including easy blues and more challenging reds.

Advanced

Advanced skiers are in for a thrill with the Amfiteatro's vast bowl and challenging black runs at the top of Motta and Sises. The famous Kandahar Slalom and Kandahar Banchetta runs, known for World Championship races, offer expert skiers plenty of challenging terrain.

Off-piste skiing

For off-piste enthusiasts, Sestriere offers a diverse landscape, from steep couloirs to open bowls. Accessible bowls near the Monginevro Pass and beautiful descents like Pitre de l'Aigle, which requires a short hike, provide memorable experiences. The route down to Pragelato offers a mix of open bowls and thrilling lines through a larch forest.

Snowboarding

Sestriere is also a haven for snowboarders, with red runs on Mount Motta and Banchetta providing an exhilarating experience. The resort features a snow park for freestylers, while beginners can learn on the accessible nursery slopes near the town center.

Sestriere ski season dates

The ski season in Sestriere for 2024/25 is expected to start on December 2nd and run until April 9th, though dates may vary depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Sestriere this season, be sure to explore our Sestriere ski deals for the best ski offers available.

Sestriere snow history

Sestriere offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 19 cm and 18 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.4 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall increases to 18 cm and it occurs more frequently, averaging 2.9 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of March, traditionally the snowiest week in Sestriere, with an impressive 31 cm of snow over 3.7 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 14 cm of snow over 2.8 days.

                                                                                                                                                                   

Month	Snow amount (week)	Snow days (week)
December	19 cm	2.5 days
January	18 cm	2.4 days
February	18 cm	2.9 days
March	21 cm	3.2 days
April	14 cm	2.8 days

(Ref: snow-forecast.com)

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Restaurants in Sestriere

Mountain restaurants

Chalet Raggio del sole

This restaurant is known for its traditional Alpine cuisine, rustic atmosphere, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains

Chisonetto

The restaurant is popular for its welcoming ambiance and Piedmontese specialties.

Da Casse

Da Casse is a charming mountain eatery that combines classic Italian flavors with a touch of mountain tradition.

Rifugio Alpette

This high-altitude refuge serves a range of local dishes and is a perfect stop for skiers looking to enjoy a meal surrounded by the beauty of the Alps.

Resort restaurants

Colombiere

Colombiere offers a refined dining experience making it an ideal choice for a special evening out.

Da Costa

A favorite among locals and visitors alike, the restaurant provides a warm and inviting environment, perfect for a casual dinner with friends or family.

GFC

GFC (Gargote Fashion cafè) combines a trendy café vibe with a diverse menu. It's a great place to unwind, enjoy a coffee or a meal, and soak in the fashionable atmosphere of Sestriere.

I.Gloo Sestriere

This restaurant stands out with its unique igloo-themed décor and creative cuisine.

Things to do in Sestriere

• Cross-country skiing
• Ice skating
• Dog sledding
• Snowmobiles
• Heliski
• Sport centre
• Swimming pool
• Cinema
• City library
• Champlas Carnival Museum

Sestriere apres ski and nightlife

Below are some of the best venues for après ski and nightlife in Sestriere:

Après ski bars

Biboski

This popular bar is the perfect place to kick off your evening after a day on the slopes, offering a fun and energetic atmosphere.

Bar Sestriere

A classic après ski spot in the village, offering a relaxed setting to enjoy a drink and recount the day's skiing adventures.

Pinky

A vibrant après ski bar known for its lively crowds and live music.

Black Pepper

A chic and contemporary space for après ski relaxation, this bar is perfect for enjoying sophisticated cocktails and a more upscale après ski experience.

Kovo

Kovo is a favorite for its warm ambiance and excellent selection of drinks.

Spotti Bar

Spotti Bar is a charming spot known for its friendly service and inviting atmosphere.

Tabata Disco

A popular nightclub known for its vibrant party atmosphere and lively music, with a reputation for hosting exciting DJ sets and themed party nights.

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Sestriere resort map

Download Sestriere resort map here

Practical information

• Tourist office website: Sestriere T.O
• Tourist office phone: +0039. 012275544
• For visa & passport travel advice, visit here