Avoid the queues in Sauze d’Oulx

Posted on October 23, 2013 in Inghams Italy Reviews Ski Holidays by Tim.Fowler Tags: , , , ,

According to the Telegraph our top national characteristic is talking about the weather, just ahead of our passion for queuing.  It’s no wonder these top characteristics become more topical when on holiday, particularly a ski holiday.

We as a nation are known for our queuing, whether that is in the supermarket, the car, at the bus stop, getting on a plane, the post office or waiting for a lift. Just because we queue lots doesn’t mean we necessarily like it!

That is why January is such a great month for us Brits to go skiing.  With heavy snow falling daily, we’re in heaven; we can talk about the weather all day long and it’s not considered boring! Plus because it’s low season you get to explore a vast range of piste without any queues, and with a reduced rate lift pass it means we can’t argue with the price either (despite that being another one of our top characteristics.)

Italy is a great country to explore in January and in particular Sauze d’Oulx.  We spoke to James from SauzeOnline to ask why Sauze d’Oulx has such a great appeal at the start of the year.

“January is my favourite month to ski in Sauze d’Oulx. You have that sense that the madness of Christmas and New Year is behind you and it’s time to reclaim the slopes.

What really makes it special is the complete lack of lift queues. It’s like you have the mountain to yourself.”

Not only does the brilliant snow conditions and unpopulated pistes draw you into Sauze in January but also the idyllic charm of the quaint town. It is a ski resort built around a town unlike many towns built to be ski resorts.  James from SauzeOnline said:

“I particularly like the old town with its narrow cobbled streets and fountains. It has a charm all of it’s own. 

This is the real Sauze d’Oulx, where the almost warren like streets lead you to cosy wine bars and excellent restaurants”

The locals are very friendly and welcome you with open arms into their favourite spots in town. The Caffe della Seggiovia, for example, is a lovely après bar.  It has a wonderful cosy feel to it and by the second day the staff and locals will recognise you to the extent that the waitress will remember your bar order from just one round. The bar also provides snacks such as antipasti, olives and focaccia, which is a welcome change to the packet of peanuts you’d be divulging in at home.  Another great après spot is Wine Il lampione (underneath the Hotel Faure) in the old town. It has a great, fun atmosphere and amazing selection of local and international wines alongside live music a couple of times a week.

The friendly Italian bars aren’t the only endearing part of the resort.  The fantastic Italian cuisine is another great reason to visit.  Stop off at Sugos for a bowl of their homemade linguine, but don’t forget to sample some of their authentic tomato, basil and mozzarella bruschetta, Bellisimo!  If you are looking to go somewhere for a special occasion or celebration, head to the Restaurant Del Falco, this restaurant serves fabulous food at a reasonable price. 

The skiing in resort is great for all levels and the Sportina Bowl provides a great meeting point at the end of the day, so you can all ski down together or for those less confident you can get the chairlift back down the mountain. Sportina is also home to some great places to eat at lunchtime.  Their pizzas, sandwiches and soups are both tasty and affordable.  Try the Monte Triplex for great atmosphere and great food at a great price.

Another great reason to visit Sauze is Football.  Yes you heard correctly, Football!  With Turin only a 40 minute drive away, our reps are able to sell tickets and arrange transfers to and from the stadium when big games are on.

So why not avoid the queues and pick Sauze d’Oulx?

For more information about our January ski holidays, head to our website Inghams.co.uk

To keep up to date with all things Sauze, take a look at James’ blog SauzeOnline.