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- Alagna Freeride
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This action-packed holiday is sure to satisfy your off piste cravings. Enjoy six days of off piste skiing with some of our favourite local mountain guides, experiencing the best backcountry terrain Alagna has to offer.
What's Included
What’s included
- Group transfers
- Six days with mountain guides
- Transceiver if required
- 7 nights half board accommodation
What’s not included
- Flights
- Lunches
- Lift pass
- Ski/boot hire
- Backpack, shovel and probe (mandatory)
On Snow Experience
This trip includes six days with mountain guides. You’ll be split into groups of 6/7 based on your ski profile. Where possible, the lift system will be utilised to access off piste terrain, however, if you need to venture further afield in order to access the best off piste conditions, then your guide may suggest ski touring. This will all be dependent upon conditions and the guides you have on your trip. If you are part of a large Freshtracks trip then there may be the opportunity for one group not to participate in any ski touring for the duration of the trip. If this is the case, please inform your Ski Club Rep at the beginning of the trip. It is essential that guests have the correct ski profile for their holiday, please see the ‘View dates & prices‘ tab for more information.
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Guides and Ski Club Reps (see Essential Info for specific holidays)
Andrea Enzio
I was born in Varallo in 1968; Ski instructor since 1990 and Mountain Guide since 1991. I started my working career in the mountain at an early stage, following in the footsteps of my father and my family who are mainly made up of mountain guides and ski instructors.
Having always had a passion for sport, I participated as an athlete in the Alagna alpine Ski Club for many years. After that I started rock climbing and then moved on to alpinism. I soon became a ski instructor and mountain guide and started these two jobs in summer and winter alternating them with maintenance work and managing the high altitude Huts, Margherita and Gnifetti on Monte Rosa.
Attracted mainly to winter sports, I started snowboarding and also completed an instructor’s course. After obtaining a qualification in canyoning guide, and participating in some Himalayas high mountain expeditions, I have been dedicating my attention and passion to skiing, from free ride and extreme snowboarding. On my side, you can count on some of the most important extreme line in the Monte Rosa group.
A lifetime dedicated to sport: other than alpinism and skiing, I am also a sailing fan, I did parachuting; I fly paraglide; white water kayak; scubadiving.
I live in Alagna and I’m the president of the historic Guide Association in Alagna founded in 1872, and technical director of the homonym guide School.
I work as Mountain Guide, Ski Instructor, Air Rescuer at helicopter base in Borgosesia and Alessandria. Married since 2013 with Barbara and now two kids: Caterina(9) and Giacomo(7).
Certifications and insurance policy
- “Scuola di Alpinismo Corpo Guide Alagna” is legally registered and recognised by “Collegio Regionale Guide Alpine del
- Mountain Guide qualification is recognised by the international certification IFMGA
- Ski Instructor qualification is recognised by ISIA certification (international ski instructor association).
- Guide School and myself have professional liability
Sandro Borini (Boris)
Boris is part of Andrea's team of experienced mountain guides.
Kim Parry
I feel privileged to have spent a huge amount of time in the mountains over the years, whether skiing, climbing or walking. Early skiing was in the Jura about 40 years ago, when I lived in France, and since then I’ve climbed and skied in Europe, the States and New Zealand.
I finished full time work recently, so I’m now free to spend even more time on my skis.. I’m a qualified International Mountain Leader and completed the Ski Club rep course in 2025, and really looking forward to sharing my passion and experience with others in the Club.
Great days in the mountains start with decent coffee and end up with a beer, with as much fun, chat and adventure as possible in between!
Susie Llewelyn
I was first stuck on skis in the days of lace up leather boots and horrid leather safety straps which was not a total success but when I returned to the slopes as a teenager I was hooked. I am a real powder bunny, never happier than when playing in the soft stuff and am happy to don skins in search of virgin tracks. When not skiing I enjoy cycling (on and off road) and most other outdoor pursuits particularly wet ones!
Mark Colston
I learnt to ski late and have been doing everything in my power to catch up! I'm a keen offpiste and touring skier always searching out the best powder stashes. Outside of skiing I enjoy running the countryside trails in Hertfordshire and sail dinghies/yachts. You won't miss me on the mountain with my yellow jacket !
Find out more about this trip ...
Holiday FAQs
Everything you need to know about Freshtracks holidays.
What is a Freshtracks holiday?
Freshtracks holidays are group ski trips organised by the Ski Club of Great Britain for solo travellers, couples, and friends who want to ski with like-minded people. We offer social skiing, instructional, off piste, and touring holidays. On all holidays, a dedicated Freshtracks Rep will be on hand to make sure the holiday runs smoothly.
Find out more here – Holidays – Ski Club Of Great Britain.
Are single rooms available?
Single room availability will be shown in the "View Dates & Prices" tab on each holiday page, located under the holiday name. If single rooms are available, this will be clearly stated there. If no single room option is listed, unfortunately this means they have already sold out.
Sometimes we can request additional single rooms from the hotel. Please contact [email protected] for more information.
When will I receive my final holiday itinerary and information?
This information is usually sent out 7-10 days before departure. It will include your final itinerary, Freshtracks Rep contact details, and any important information relating to your transfers, flights, and accommodation, depending on what is included in your specific package.
I am unsure of my ski profile. How do I know what profile I am?
Freshtracks holidays use a ski profiling system to ensure you’re skiing alongside members of a similar ability, creating well-matched groups and a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
We recommend reviewing our Ski Profile page and selecting the profile you feel best represents your current skiing. The profiles are there to help us place you on the right holiday, so please choose honestly to ensure you get the most out of your time on the slopes.
If you’ve been on a Freshtracks holiday before, your Rep will give you an official grading at the end of the week. This will be recorded on our system and available to view in your Ski Locker.
Do I need to be an expert skier to join a Freshtracks trip?
No. Freshtracks holidays cater to a wide range of skiing abilities, from early intermediates to advanced skiers. Each trip includes detailed information about the recommended ski level so you can choose the right holiday for your ability.
I'm a solo traveller. Would I be suitable for a Freshtracks holiday?
Absolutely. The majority of Freshtracks guests travel solo – in fact, 85% of our guests last winter were solo travellers.
Our holidays are specifically designed to help you meet other passionate skiers and feel part of the group from the start. Group dining, organised skiing and fun social activities all help to create a friendly, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, making Freshtracks an ideal choice for anybody travelling alone.
Are lift passes and ski rental included in the holidays?
Ski rental is not included on Freshtracks holidays and is arranged separately. That said, Ski Club of Great Britain members enjoy access to a number of ski hire discounts, which can be found on our Discounts page.
Ski Club of GB Rental Discounts
Please note that inclusions differ by holiday when it comes to lift passes, so it’s important to check the Essential Info tab beneath the holiday title, as well as the "What’s Included" and "What’s Not Included" sections at the top of the holiday overview page.
I have a group flight included. How do I check in?
For Freshtracks holidays that include group flights, it is not possible to check in online beforehand. You simply need to turn up to a manned check-in desk with your passport on the day, where you will be checked in and issued with a physical boarding pass.
Make sure you read the full travel information in the Travel tab and, once you have booked, keep an eye out for your final information document. This will provide further details on your baggage allowance.
If flights are included, can I bring a ski bag?
Ski carriage cannot be pre-booked and is payable at the airport.
We are ATOL and ABTOT protected so you can book with confidence knowing your money is secure.
Our holidays are a great way to meet and ski with other members of a similar ability to you.
Have questions? Call now and talk to our friendly team of holiday experts on 020 8410 2022.
Ready to Book?
Prices include
7 nights half board, 3* hotel, twin share accommodation, return transfers, 6 days with mountain guides
Prior to booking, please ensure you have the correct ski profile for the holiday. See our profiles here.
| Start date | End date | Ski Profile | Peak Experience | Availability | Price | Deposit |
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Book with confidence - the Ski Club is ABTOT and ATOL protected
Hotel Cristallo
Your base for the week will be the traditional Hotel Cristallo. You will stay on a half board basis with dinner and breakfast included. This holiday is on a twin share basis. If you are a solo traveller, then you will be placed in a room with someone of the same gender. Single rooms may be available upon request and are subject to our hotel room allowance. If you require a single room, please book early to avoid disappointment.
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Hotel Christallo
Piazza Degli Alberghi, 7
13021 Alagna Valsesia VC
Italy
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Travel Information
This holiday does not include flights but does include return group transfers from Milan Malpensa Airport. Please see the recommended flights and transfer details below:
Recommended Flights
23/01/2027 – 30/01/2027
20/02/2027 – 27/02/2027
20/03/2027 – 27/03/2027
LGW 0840 – 1140 MXP (EZY8051) // MXP 1740 – 1850 LGW (EZY8312)
LHR 0930 – 1235 MXP (BA0580) // MXP 1920 – 2020 LHR (BA0589)
The outbound transfer will leave Milan Malpensa Airport at 1335. Please ensure your flight lands no later than 1235 in order for you to make the group transfer time.
The inbound transfer will arrive at Milan Malpensa Airport by 1440. Please ensure your flight departs no earlier than 1740.
Your Rep will coordinate the coach transfer from Milan Malpensa Airport, so please look out for them in the main arrivals hall (they will be wearing their Ski Club jacket). Transfers to and from resort will take approximately 2 hours. Please do not book your flights until the holiday is confirmed to run.
Confirmation
Once the holiday has been confirmed, please send your flight details (flight numbers, arrival and departure time) to the Freshtracks Team via email to [email protected].
Ready to book?
What You Need to Know
Ski Hire/Equipment
If you require equipment hire, we recommend Sport Haus. This is located within a 5-minute walk of the hotel, next to the main lift station. They offer a good range of off piste equipment, and your Ski Club rep can help you with this when in resort.
If you own your own ski touring equipment, then it may be worth taking this with you on your trip. If you do not own your own kit, then this can normally be usually be rented at Sport Haus subject to availability. However, please be aware of the cost of hiring this equipment in resort.
For more information, please check out their website here – Sport Haus Rental Alagna
Lift Passes
It is recommended to buy your lift pass ahead of departure for this holiday. Please ensure your lift pass includes the ‘Indren Lift’ for the freeride area.
For more information on pricing and to purchase your pass please go to Ski pass online – Alagna.
Reps
23 – 30 Jan 2027 : Mark Colston
20 – 27 Feb 2027 : Susie Llewellyn
20 – 27 Mar 2027 : Kim Parry
Helmets
Please note that wearing a helmet while skiing is now mandatory in Italy. For more information, please visit: Italy Introduces Mandatory Helmet Rule for All Skiers & Snowboarders – Ski Club Of Great Britain.
Instructors/Guides
23 – 30 Jan 2027 : Andrea Enzio & Boris
20 – 27 Feb 2027 : Andrea Enzio & Boris
20 – 27 Mar 2027 : Andrea Enzio & Boris
Hotel Proximity To The Lifts
The Hotel Cristallo is located approximately 350 metres from the lifts.
Insurance
It is a condition of booking that you have valid and adequate snowsports insurance. It is your responsibility to ensure your policy provides cover for all the activities that you participate in during your holiday. We offer a Ski Club Insurance policy which provides the cover we require for all bookings. This policy can be found here: Ski Club Travel Insurance – Ski Club Of Great Britain.
If you decide to purchase insurance elsewhere, it is your responsibility to ensure that your policy provides cover as that of the Ski Club Insurance policy. The policy of insurance should provide cover for personal injury, death, medical and repatriation costs in the countries which you intend to visit, together with cover for loss of baggage and valuables, personal liability, delay, cancellation, curtailment, missed departure and legal expenses. The policy should also include cover against losses caused by the effects or consequences of Covid-19.
Due to the type of holidays that you will be booking with us, we also advise that your policy should include skiing off-piste without a guide. Please note, insurance premiums must be paid at the same time as booking in order for the package holiday or single service cancellation cover to be effective. It is also advised to keep your insurance details with you while you are on your holiday. If you choose to travel without adequate insurance cover, we will not be liable for any losses howsoever arising, in respect of which insurance cover would otherwise have been available.
Travel
Passport – Check your passport is in date and valid for travel by checking the entry requirements for your destination country – you can see these here: Foreign travel advice – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
For most European destinations your passport should:
- have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
- have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave the Schengen area
Check your passport meets these requirements before you travel.
NB: Beginning in October 2025, how you pass through EU border controls will change. Find out more information about EES and ETIAS here.
Off Piste Safety
When venturing off piste, it is compulsory to wear an avalanche transceiver. These can be provided by the Ski Club and should be worn by every person on every all mountain, off piste and touring holiday. Anyone joining these holidays will also be required to bring their own backpack, shovel and probe.
Terms and conditions of skiing with the Club.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Any Member wishing to ski/snowboard with a Ski Club Group, in any of the resorts where the Ski Club is represented, agrees to do so under the following conditions:
- You appreciate that the Ski Club Rep is a volunteer with no formal qualifications as an instructor or mountain guide.
- You also appreciate that no other member of the group undertakes any obligations to you concerning your safety for which you remain solely responsible.
- You must ensure that your equipment is in good working order before setting off for the day and that you are suitably clothed for the proposed itinerary and all possible weather conditions.
- You must decide whether or not a particular run or route is within your competence.
- You must ensure that you are properly equipped for that day. If you are skiing off piste you must have a shovel, probe and transceiver, and know how to use them. If you are using a Ski Club transceiver, it is your sole responsibility to know how to use it.
- It is your sole responsibility to ensure that you are suitably insured for the activities intended to be undertaken.
Ready to book?
More mountain facts lifts · season · features
Lift network
Season
Features
Linked to Gressoney and Champoluc in the Monterosa Ski Area, Alagna has over 2000m of lift served vertical and some serious off piste terrain.
Beginner
Fast lifts
Intermediate- Resort Activities
Advanced- Aprés
Snow- Value
Discover the pristine beauty and exhilarating slopes of Alagna, where world-class skiing meets the charm of an authentic Alpine village.
Pros and cons
Pros
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Access to incredible off piste terrain
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Huge vertical and lots of skiing above 2500m
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Part of the vast Monterosa ski area and its 132km of linked slopes
Cons
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Upper mountain may close during bad weather
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Tough mountain for beginners or early intermediates
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Village is relatively quiet in terms of apres and nightlife
Reviews for this holiday(4)
Leave a Review!Overall rating
Good Value
Anthony, April 10, 2025
Another excellent Freshtracks holiday in a friendly, good value Italian resort.
Great Team and Good Hotel
Richard, April 8, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed Alagna Free-ride, great team, good hotel, no huge lift queues, good guide, and challenging skiing without the need to be a potential Olympian!
Helpful Staff
David, June 3, 2024
The hotel was characterful, historic, comfortable and welcoming with very helpful staff.
Menu
Early Intermediate (Blue) 
Intermediate (Red) 
Advanced Intermediate (Silver) 
Advanced (Purple) 
Expert (Gold) 
Aspirer (Red)