in the Aosta Valley. Best known for its high-altitude skiing, Cervinia also comes alive in summer with hiking, mountain biking, scenic lifts, road cycling and outdoor adventures in the surrounding Alps.

At around 2,050 metres above sea level, the resort offers cool mountain air, dramatic alpine scenery and access to high-altitude trails and viewpoints. Whether you want an active outdoor holiday, a relaxing break in the mountains or the unusual experience of skiing on a glacier in summer, Cervinia has plenty to offer.

You can spend your days exploring mountain trails, riding the bike park, discovering the landscapes around Plateau Rosa or enjoying lunch on a sunny terrace with views of the Matterhorn.

One of Cervinia's distinctive attractions is the possibility of skiing in summer on the high-altitude glacier around Plateau Rosa, linked to the wider Matterhorn ski area towards Zermatt in Switzerland.

At 3,833m, the altitude of the glacier can provide opportunities for summer skiing and snowboarding when conditions and facilities allow. Summer skiing is seasonal, however, and the available pistes, lifts and operating dates can vary with weather and snow conditions.

The best time to go up to ski is around 10am. This is because it gives the sun time to soften the ice and snow. Around 2pm is when most skiers head to the mountain restauants as the snow is generally too soft to ski on and becomes slushy.

• Top: 3883m
• Snow limit: 2939m
• Vertical drop: 960m
• Pistes: 25km
• Ski Lifts: 8
• Longest piste: 7km
• Summer ski school

The high-altitude setting makes this a memorable experience for keen skiers and ski professional with many ski clubs using the glacier for training. However, visitors should be prepared for variable conditions as it can get cold even with the strong sun in summer.

Hiking in Cervinia

Hiking is one of the best ways to experience Cervinia in summer. The surrounding mountains offer routes through alpine meadows, rocky landscapes and high mountain terrain, with views towards the Matterhorn and the peaks of the Aosta Valley.

There are walks to suit different levels of fitness and experience, from gentler outings around the resort to longer mountain hikes that require good preparation. Higher-altitude routes can offer particularly impressive scenery, but conditions can change quickly as you gain elevation.

Mountain lifts may provide access to some starting points during the summer season, depending on operating dates and weather. Before setting off, check the latest lift schedules, trail conditions and route difficulty. For demanding routes or glacier terrain, consider going with a qualified mountain guide.

Glacier experiences and the Matterhorn

The high mountains around Cervinia offer some of the region's most striking scenery. The Matterhorn dominates the skyline, while the Plateau Rosa area provides access to a dramatic high-altitude environment.

Glacier excursions are very different from ordinary mountain walks. Crevasses, changing snow conditions and altitude can make glacier travel hazardous, so do not venture onto a glacier independently. If you want to explore glacier terrain or visit ice caves on Klein Matterhorn, use a qualified guide and check current access arrangements before travelling.

For visitors who prefer a less demanding experience, scenic mountain viewpoints and lift-accessible areas, where operating, can offer memorable views without requiring a technical glacier excursion.

Mountain bike and Cervinia bike park

Cervinia is an appealing destination for mountain bikers looking for alpine scenery and downhill riding. The area's bike-park trails which start at 2,900m and mountain routes provide opportunities for experienced riders, while suitable routes in the wider area can also offer options for different abilities.

Riding at altitude brings changing terrain and conditions, so choose routes that match your experience and equipment. Check which lifts carry bikes, when the bike park is open and whether trails are operating before planning your day.

For families and less experienced riders, look into suitable guided rides or easier routes rather than assuming every downhill trail is appropriate for beginners.

Other summer activities

• Golf - 18-hole golf course
• Tennis and swimming
• Adventure park
• Horse-riding
• Paragliding
• White water rafting and kayaking
• Mountain Climbing
• Hiking on over 400km of trails
• Via Ferrata
• Exploring traditional villages and other destinations around the Aosta Valley