Some runs are every skier’s dream – and the Gran Pista of Valtournenche, also known as Reine Blanche, is one of them. Nestled in the Cervino Ski Paradise area, it finishes at Plan de la Glaea and holds the title of Italy’s longest piste. It’s a must for experienced skiers seeking a thrilling challenge. Here’s what you need to know before taking it on.
How long is the Reine Blanche?
Reine Blanche is one of Italy’s longest continuous descents, stretching up to 20 km depending on your chosen route and starting point on the glacier. The run is divided into three sections – Upper, Middle, and Lower – with a vertical drop of over 2,300 metres. With a steady pace and minimal stops, you can ski for several minutes straight, feeling the mountain transform beneath your skis.
The adventure begins on the glacier at 4,200 metres on the Breithorn, descending to the Plateau Rosa. From there, the “Ventina S” takes you to the start of piste number 11. The final section features sweeping turns, changing gradients, and rolling bumps, concluding on the broad Pistone slope.
Where to find it and how to get there
Reine Blanche sits at the heart of the Cervino Ski Paradise, linking the Italian resorts of Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche with Zermatt on the Swiss side.
From Valtournenche, reach the Salette area via the cable car from the village, then continue on the Motta and Bec Carrè chairlifts. Guests staying in Breuil-Cervinia can access the run by ascending to Plateau Rosa and the Little Matterhorn (Piccolo Cervino).
By car, Valtournenche is easily reached via the A5 Turin–Aosta motorway, exit Chatillon–Saint-Vincent, then following the regional road to Breuil-Cervinia.
For those flying in, the nearest airports are Turin Airport (about 140 km away) and Milan Malpensa Airport (around 200 km), both offering a range of domestic and international flights. From the airports, the village is accessible by rental car, shuttle services, or a combination of train and local bus connections.
Other pistes in Valtournenche
Valtournenche offers a variety of runs for all levels – from gentle slopes for beginners and families to steeper pistes for experts. Notable neighbouring runs include:
- 10 Du Col (blue)
- 11 Gran Sometta (blue)
- 14 Tunnel (blue)
- 18 Parco Giochi (blue)
- 2 Campetto (blue)
- 4 Motta (blue)
- 7 100 Fontaine (blue)
- 9 Baracon (blue)
- 12 Gran Lago (red)
- 15 E Noussan (red)
- 1a Chateau (red)
- 5 Canestrini (red)
- 6 Canalino (red)
- 8bis Salette (red)
Ski pass information
To enjoy Reine Blanche and the rest of Cervino Ski Paradise, a valid ski pass is required. Prices vary depending on season, duration, and coverage – whether just Valtournenche–Cervinia or including Zermatt on the Swiss side.
A full-day pass in Valtournenche costs around €43, a half-day €34.50, and a two-day pass €82.50, with discounts for children, teenagers, and seniors.
Living in Valtournenche
Valtournenche is a charming Aosta Valley village, quieter and more intimate than Breuil-Cervinia. It offers shops, essential services, ski schools, bars, and restaurants. Many choose to live here to enjoy a better work–life balance, taking advantage of regular skiing and outdoor activities.
For other amenities, larger centres like Chatillon and Aosta are easily accessible. Explore the latest property listings on idealista to find your perfect home: