Sestriere and the surrounding ski area that makes up the Milky Way need no introduction as they are already famous as having been the site of the 2006 Winter Olympics. Skiing here is suitable for all levels of skiers and comprises
Downhill skiing
There is 50km of excellent off piste skiing directly from the door above the village up to 2700m. A 100m walk will take you to the cablecar which takes you straight up to the heart of the Milky Way. Here the slopes rise as high as 3280m include two Olympic downhill runs, 42 black runs, 118 red runs, 54 blue runs and 7 green runs. The Milky Way ski pass encompasses the ski villages of Sestriere, Borgata di Sestriere, Sauze d'Oulx, San Sicario, Cesana Torinese and on the French side, Montgenevre and Claviere. While there are a large number of mountain restaurants, skiing access directly to these villages provides an alternative option to lunch on the slopes.
Heli Skiing
The Pure Ski company (see links) operate a heli skiing service from the village only a few minutes walk from the ski lodge. From here they take you to the high remote and wild parts of the Italian Alps.
Cross-Country Skiing
The 2006 winter olympic cross country event was centred on Pattemouche, the hamlet where the lodge is located and the olympic trails all begin and end here. The trails mainly traverse the Val Troncea National Park. Less arduous trails follow the river and the lower slopes of the village ski area.
Snow Shoeing (raquette di sci or Ciaspolata)
The ever increasing popularity of 'raquette di sci' is also catered for both in the village and the wider ski area. Equipment is available to rent in the rental shop close to the lodge or throughout the villages of the Milky Way.
Skidooing
The skidoo track runs along the back of the village up to Borgata di Sestriere taking in some wonderful scenery on the way. Skidoos can also be used for transporting non skiers to mountain restaurants above Sestriere to join the rest of the party and bring skiers back down, after dark, directly to the lodge. Torch descent with an instructor can also be arranged.
Ice Skating
There is an ice skating rink at the bottom of the slopes in Sestriere, popular throughout the day and into the evening.
click here for summer activities