Claviere - village
Overlooked by the imposing Mt Chaberton (3,131m), the small, traditional village of Claviere has a harmonious blend of old and new architecture. We like its quiet, relaxed atmosphere and great location right on the border where Italy and France are joined to the Milky Way with access to 400km of pistes. It is set around the main road to Montegnevre and Briançon, and lift access to the French slopes is easy.
Cocooned in a wooded spot, Claviere is a low-key little resort with a handful of shops, some good restaurants, a sprinkling of bars and a good local market every Friday. The locals are extremely welcoming and hospitable and restaurants and bars are exceptionally good value.
If it all gets too quiet, Montgenèvre is easily accessible by bus or taxi – or a 20-minute stroll to the town along an illuminated pathway.
Accommodation types
There are only 10 hotels, most of which are very family-friendly. We like the Hotel Bes (00 39 012 287 87 35) which is attractively furnished and well-positioned in the centre and also has a spa and ‘wellness’ centre.
The 3-star Club Hotel Grande Claviere (00 39 012 287 87 87) is especially suited to families and is adjacent to the French border, a short walk to the village centre and ski lifts. The intimate Hotel Miramonti (00 39 012 287 88 04) has glorious views, just 30m from the Montgenèvre lifts and 250m from the Milky Way lifts.
Ski/Snowboard equipment hire
There is a limited choice, but in Claviere try the Ski Lodge - Noleggio E Riparazioni (00 39 012 287 80 41). For more options go to neighbouring Montgenèvre.
Non-ski activities
There is a natural ice-skating rink, bowling and skittles, amusement arcade, snowshoeing excursions, sleigh rides and, at nearby Sansicario-Cesana, the breathtaking Olympic bobsleigh run.
Childcare
La Ciniarella kindergarten is available for children aged 13 months and above. The Club Hotel Grande Claviere has a wide range of facilities, including a Pepi Penguin Club for children aged 6 months to 4 years and Whizz Kids Club for aged 4 to 11 years.