Sampeyre Overview

Ice is the most interesting attraction of this valley situated at the foot of Monviso, where the Occitane culture is still alive today. The climate, exposure and high altitude maintain the falls and couloirs of the ice of the lateral gorges in safe conditions, making it possible to climb them until spring. For cross-country skiing, the valley offers tracks in the basin of Casteldelfino, in the locality of Becetto in Sampeyre and near the Nordic Ski Centre of the Sanctuary of Valmala, on the watershed between the Maira and Varaita valleys. Other high altitude ski runs are the “Daniele Roux” track in Chianale (1797 m) and that of Melezé in the Bellino Gorge (1800 m). The downhill skiing areas are located in Sampeyre and Pontechianale and both have artificial snow systems. Sampeyre offers more technical slopes, while Pontechianale is particularly suitable for beginners.