Italy — The skiing universe will be centered around Italy this winter thanks to the 2026 Olympics in Milan and Cortina. Right on queue, the Ikon Pass will be adding more famous ski resorts to its roster for next winter.
Yesterday, the Ikon Pass announced that it’s adding five ski resorts in the Valle d’Aosta region. The Pass will include up to five or seven days (depending on whether you buy the full or base pass) of access to the following ski resorts: Cervino, Courmayeur, La Thuile, Monterosa, and Pila. This means a total of five or seven days collectively to these ski resorts, not individually.
“We are proud and excited to join the Ikon Pass community,” said Danilo Chatrian, Courmayeur Mont Blanc Funivie General Director and project representative in Valle d’Aosta. “This partnership opens the door to U.S. skiers and riders, offering the opportunity to discover the breathtaking scenery and exceptional winter experiences that make Valle d’Aosta a true hidden gem of the Alps. From iconic peaks and world-class skiing to gourmet cuisine and authentic alpine charm, we are thrilled to share the unique spirit of our special region in Italy with a wider global audience.”
Perhaps the most notable addition is Cervino Ski Paradise. Part of Matterhorn Ski Paradise, this ski resort is connected to Valtournenche in Italy and Zermatt in Switzerland. It is worth noting that Zermatt is also an Ikon destination. Cervino features a huge vertical drop, modern lifts, and an extensive trail network.
Compared to the other additions, Courmayeur Mont Blanc seems relatively small. However, it’s still got a huge vertical drop, modern lift infrastructure, and dramatic views of the world-famous Mont Blanc.
La Thuile features excellent beginner and intermediate terrain on the lower mountain, as well as world-class steeps on the upper mountain, which is featured on the Audi FIS World Cup circuit. It’s connected to La Rosiere, which is situated in France, but that ski resort doesn’t appear to be an Ikon Pass (yet). While it doesn’t boast the fastest lift infrastructure, it’s efficient enough not to be a deterrent.
Monterosa is highly regarded for its powder skiing, as well as its off-piste and backcountry options. This makes it an appealing choice for those who are backcountry and freeride skiers.
Located in the Aosta Valley, Pila has a varied terrain network and beautiful views of the Alps. Pila recently made headlines for its new lifts, which improved on its one weak point. Pila is also a partner on the Indy Pass.
The question for some is whether this is doable on a potential trip to the 2026 Olympics, which will be in Milan and Cortina. It’s a fairly long drive or train trip there, but those who are dedicated enough can make it. For Ikon passholders, another appeal is that Dolomiti Superski is on the pass, meaning you’ll get to ski the mountains the Olympians are going to next February.
Image/Video Credits: Dimitris Kiriakakis, Ikon Pass, Matterhorn Ski Paradise, Courmayeur Mont Blanc, Monterosa, La Thuile Espace San Bernardo, Pila, Dolomiti Superski
