Sauze d’Oulx, pronounced “Sow-zee-doo” was one of the most successful Italian ski resorts on the 1970s and ’80s, expanding rapidly. Located on a high sunny ‘balcony’ in the Susa Valley, the resort is surrounded by larch forest above. The trails cut down through this natural amphitheatre have an excellent snow record. Its success resulted from its large and varied ski area, linked to Sestrière, its lively night life and reasonable prices. The resulting growth has led to the construction of a large number of rectangular concrete apartment blocks, mirroring its French partner, Montgènevre, now lift-linked to Sauze at the other end of the long Milky Way circuit.

The Milky Way (aka Via Lattea) ski area is now one of the largest in Europe, with 212 routes, many of which wind through beautiful tree covered landscapes. Lying on the west side of the area, Sauze has a reputation for being a red-run paradise, making it a great destination for intermediate skiers. More advanced skiers will enjoy the varied routes and the ability to ski all the way across to Montgènevre, while beginners are not left out, with plenty of gentle blue runs to choose from.

Although Sauze still has a delightful ancient heart of stone buildings, narrow streets and a cobbled square with water fountain, as well as locals prepared to dress in traditional attire for ancient festivals, these are all somewhat swamped by the newer developments all around.

In recent years Sauze d’Oulx has matured a good deal, and although the resort is still one of the liveliest ski centres in the world, the occasionally unpleasant ‘rowdy’ element has moved on. It remains a very popular destination none the less, with most of the major international tour operators including it in their resort lists.

Skiing has been popular here for over a century and world champions like Piero Gros, a gold medalist of the 1976 Olympics, have been based here and more recently the resort was a venue for the 2006 Winter Olympics. Skiing first began on the local slopes at the end of the nineteenth century when a Swiss engineer, Adolfo Kind, taught skiing to locals and guests using wooden boards strapped to the feet.

Ski with the Ski Club of Great Britain today!

The Ski Club is the UK’s oldest and largest snowsports membership organisation, dedicated to bringing skiers together to share and grow their passion for snowsports! The Club operates a dedicated Rep in this resort, along with 23 other resorts across Europe and North America – ski with us today and find your best day ever on snow.

Alongside Reps, the Club offers a host of services to help you make the most of your time on snow, including travel insurance designed by skiers for skiers, exclusive discounts for our Members, a huge range of information, inspiration and advice, and incredible holidays around the world for every taste in skiing.