Set in the Aosta Valley with spectacular views of Monte Bianco, the traditional alpine village of Courmayeur is one of the most picturesque Italian ski resorts. The range of skiing options makes it suitable for all abilities, be it the gentle beginner’s slopes of the Checrouit-Val Veny or the more demanding upper reaches of Monte Bianco which are more suited to experienced skiers. Other activities to be found around the town include snowshoe walking excursions, indoor climbing, ice skating and a cinema, whilst for those who like their entertainment to be a little more cerebral, there is the nearby ancient town of Aosta and a myriad of medieval castles to explore. After a hard day on the piste head to the atmospheric cobbled alleyways in and around Via Roma and sample the delights of Courmayeur’s restaurants, renowned as the best of any Italian resort. Slope Life: Standing in the shadow of the Monte Bianco-Mount Blanc massif, the beautiful alpine resort of Courmayeur offers 100km of pistes and caters for all levels and abilities. The main hub of the mountain is the Plan Checrouit, but most skiers will use this as a starting point to access more challenging runs on the mountain as can be found at Mount Chetif, Col Cherout and Cresta Youla. At the top of the range there is Cresta d Arp, strictly for high level skiers, offering the chance to experience some good off piste guided skiing. Ski passes are available from 1 to 14 days. All passes valid for 6 to 10 consecutive days may be used for 2 days in one of the other ski resorts of the Aosta Valley, which include the resorts of La Thuile, La Rosière, and Champoluc-Gressoney-Alagna and also include access to Chamonix (lifts on the French side not included, though). Scuola Sci Monte Bianco +39 0165 842477 www.scuolascimontebianco.com Interski +39 0165 304711 www.interski.co.uk If you want to kit yourself out with some go faster skis or if you're looking to keep up with the Courmayeur fashionistas, then there are a number of outlets which can provide what you’re looking for! 4810 Sport 106 Via Roma +39 0165 844345 www.grivel-courmayeur.it Alpineve Loc Plan Checrouit +39 0165 846357 www.alpineve.it

At 517 metres, Pico do Facho is the highest point on Porto Santo and one of the island’s most spectacular viewpoints. Its name comes from facho, a signal fire once lit here to warn the local population of approaching pirate ships. The trail to the summit is moderately easy, suitable for most walkers who are comfortable with uneven terrain and a bit of uphill hiking. It typically takes around 2 to 2½ hours for a round trip at a leisurely pace. Along the way, the trail offers occasional lookout spots where you can pause to take in the island’s volcanic ridges and sweeping landscapes. Once at the summit, you’ll be treated to full 360-degree views: the island’s long golden beach stretched below, rugged volcanic hills rolling inland, and the Atlantic fading into the horizon.

Explore the island's volcanic tidal pools, where calm, crystal-clear waters gather in rocky hollows along the coast. Porto das Salemas on the north side offers small emerald-coloured pools perfect for a refreshing swim at low tide, while Porto dos Frades on the east coast combines tidal pools with dramatic rock formations and a small seasonal restaurant nearby. Bring water shoes, be sure to check the tide, and enjoy a quieter side of the island away from the beach crowds.