Hotel Punta Maquignaz

Features

In the village centre 100 metres from the lifts, the Maquignaz combines modern facilities with authentic Alpine atmosphere. Wood panelled, with an open fireplace and hunting trophies all around, the hotel offers distinctive accommodation and fine dining.

Bedrooms: 32. All rooms have bath or shower, hairdryer, satellite TV, telephone, safe and minibar. Junior suites are on request.

Meals: Buffet breakfast. Dinner consists of a starter, a choice of 4 first and 4 main courses followed by a cheese trolley and fruit and dessert buffet. There’s also a salad / vegetable buffet. Bread, pastas and desserts are made in-house. See our features box for more information.

Facilities: Bar and cocktail bar; lounge with open fire; hotel and à la carte restaurants; free entrance spa with Turkish bath, sauna and relaxation area; beauty and massage treatments (pay locally); lift.

Special Attractions: • Christmas and New Year’s Eve gala dinners incl. • Weekly special dinner with local specialities.

Official Rating: 4 stars

Cervinia Resort Info

Based on the Italian side of the Matterhorn, Cervinia is lift-linked to Zermatt, with 200km of its own runs. Because of its high altitude, it has a long season, great snow and is an absolute haven for intermediates. The slopes are superb for cruising and mileage skiing, while beginners will find masses of coverage. Advanced skiers will need to head over into Switzerland for extended challenges, although you'll have to pay extra to cross to Zermatt. Because of its position, the scenery is outstanding, but this can be marred by poor weather and high winds, which can often cause the higher lifts to be closed. If the weather holds, you can usually be guaranteed loads of sun as well as long tree-lined runs. The ski school is getting better but, as with many Italian resorts, childcare is rather limited.

On the downside, Cervinia is not the most attractive resort and is entirely purpose-built. It was founded in the 1930s by Mussolini and still doesn't cater very well for non-skiers. There are good restaurants on and off the mountain, but their prices are nearly as steep as the Matterhorn itself. Weekend crowds can put pressure on the old lift system, but also improve the quality of après-ski. Access from the accommodation to the lifts is inconvenient, requiring an uphill walk.

Overall, Cervinia is great for lower ability skiers and boarders and much cheaper than its Swiss neighbour. Experts, kids and party animals may not find Cervinia ideal, although the first group do have Zermatt nearby to keep them busy.