Bardonecchia​

Latest page update: 26 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
​The ski resort of Bardonecchia is situated within the Metropolitan City of Turin province. It stands at an elevation of 1,312 metres above sea level and has a population of around 3,100 residents.

​Places of interest nearby include the towns of Sauze d'Oulx, Sestriere, Cesana Torinese and Claviere while recommended accommodation for the resort is the Residence Cianfuran.

What People Ask About Bardonecchia

Is Bardonecchia worth visiting?
Yes, Bardonecchia is a well-known alpine town in the Susa Valley, popular for skiing in winter and mountain activities in summer. It combines outdoor sports with easy access from Turin.
What can you do in Bardonecchia?
In winter, you can ski, snowboard, and use the cross-country trails. In summer, the area offers hiking, cycling, and climbing. The town also has shops, cafés, and mountain-view restaurants.
How do you get to Bardonecchia?
Bardonecchia has its own train station with regional and high-speed trains from Turin, taking about 1.5 hours. It is also accessible by car via the A32 motorway, near the Frejus Tunnel.
What is Bardonecchia known for?
Bardonecchia is known for its ski resorts and alpine setting. It hosted snowboarding events during the 2006 Winter Olympics and is one of the most accessible mountain destinations from Turin.
When is the best time to visit Bardonecchia?
Winter is best for skiing, from December to March. For walking and outdoor activities, June to September offers mild temperatures and clear alpine views.
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Discover

Discover Bardonecchia
Bardonecchia, located in the Susa Valley of the Piedmont region, is a charming town known for its alpine setting and outdoor activities. Surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks, it serves as a gateway to the Italian Alps, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty and a rich history. The town's vibrant atmosphere is shaped by its historical roots and the appeal of its surrounding landscapes, making it a popular destination for both winter and summer sports enthusiasts.
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The town is renowned for its ski resorts, particularly Bardonecchia Ski Resort, which offers a variety of slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. During the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the nearby Parco Naturale dei Laghi di Avigliana, a protected area known for its picturesque lakes and diverse wildlife. In addition to outdoor pursuits, Bardonecchia also features historical landmarks, such as the Fort of Fenestrelle, a massive fortress overlooking the valley. With its combination of outdoor adventure and historical attractions, Bardonecchia provides a well-rounded experience for visitors seeking both nature and culture.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Bardonecchia
  • Campo Smith is the main ski area in Bardonecchia, with lifts departing directly from the town. It offers a range of pistes for all levels, including connections to the Jafferau slopes via ski bus. In summer, the area is used for mountain biking and hiking. Facilities include rentals, schools, and après-ski options.
  • Old Town (Borgo Vecchio) features stone houses, narrow alleys, and alpine-style buildings reflecting Bardonecchia’s past as a mountain village. Key sights include the 12th-century Church of Sant’Ippolito and several traditional fountains. The area contrasts with the more modern developments around the ski stations. Artisan shops and local restaurants are scattered throughout.
  • Jafferau Mountain is Bardonecchia’s second ski area, located at higher altitude and reached via a gondola from the town or shuttle bus. It offers off-piste routes and panoramic views across the Susa Valley. In summer, hiking and 4x4 tours explore its trails and ridgelines. The slopes are quieter than Campo Smith and more suited to experienced skiers.
  • Tunnel du Fréjus and Railway Station highlight Bardonecchia’s role as a key Alpine crossing point. The Fréjus Rail Tunnel, opened in 1871, was one of the first to pass under the Alps and remains active today. The town’s large train station connects it with Turin, Lyon and Paris. A modern road tunnel complements the rail link.
  • Parco Avventura di Bardonecchia is an outdoor adventure park located in the woods near Campo Smith. It includes tree-top courses, zip lines, and climbing challenges for adults and children. The park operates seasonally and is suitable for families. It adds to the town’s summer appeal as an active holiday destination.
Bardonecchia Tours and Activities
Comune di Bardonecchia
Province: Metropolitan City of Turin

Region: Piedmont

Population: 2,980​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 132 km²

Elevation: 1,312 metres​​​​​

​Close by: Sauze d'Oulx, Sestriere, Cesana Torinese, Claviere

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Bardonecchia
  • Hotel Rivè Located at Campo Smith, next to the ski lifts, this modern hotel offers spacious rooms with wooden interiors and mountain views. Guests appreciate the wellness centre, on-site restaurant, and direct access to skiing in winter and hiking trails in summer. €€€ (high-end)
  • Residence Tabor Situated in the centre of Bardonecchia near the train station, this residence provides self-catering apartments with kitchenettes and balconies. Visitors enjoy the clean, well-equipped accommodation, helpful staff, and walking access to shops, cafés, and ski bus stops. €€ (mid-range)
  • Hotel I Larici Just a short walk from the centre, this chalet-style hotel features cosy rooms with traditional alpine décor. Guests value the quiet location, homemade breakfast, and the garden with mountain views. It’s popular with both couples and families. €€ (mid-range)
  • Villaggio Olimpico Bardonecchia Originally built for the 2006 Winter Olympics, this complex offers simple rooms with access to a large range of facilities including a restaurant, gym, entertainment areas, and shuttle service to the slopes. It’s well suited for groups and families. €€ (mid-range)
  • Hotel La Betulla Located in a peaceful area close to the centre, this small hotel provides comfortable rooms with balconies and views of the surrounding peaks. Guests enjoy the friendly service, hearty meals, and easy access to ski lifts and walking trails. €€ (mid-range)

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Piedmont Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Piedmont

1. Orta San Giulio
2. Lake Maggiore
3. Langhe
4. ​Turin
5. Borromean Islands
6. Monferrato
7. Reggia di Venaria Reale
8. Asti
9. Val di Susa
10. ​Barolo

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Piedmont

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