Day Trip · Susa Valley
Bardonecchia
& Sauze d'Oulx
The Alpine escape around Turin
Just over one hour from Turin, the mountains of the Susa Valley offer the perfect Alpine day trip experience. Beautiful landscapes, traditional mountain villages, panoramic roads, ski culture, hiking trails and relaxed Italian mountain atmosphere make Bardonecchia and Sauze d'Oulx two of the best mountain destinations around Turin.
Perfect in both winter and summer, these villages offer completely different experiences depending on the season — from skiing and snow to hiking, biking and panoramic aperitivo with mountain views.
Why Tourists Love It
- Easy access from Turin
- Beautiful Alpine scenery
- Authentic mountain atmosphere
- Excellent food and local restaurants
- Perfect combination of nature and relaxation
- Great alternative to crowded tourist destinations
Village 1
Bardonecchia
Elegant Alpine atmosphere
Located close to the French border, Bardonecchia feels authentic, relaxed and elegant. It is less "party-oriented" than some ski resorts and more focused on nature, mountain lifestyle and outdoor activities. It became internationally famous after hosting events during the 2006 Winter Olympics.
Why Tourists Love Bardonecchia
- Beautiful mountain scenery
- Elegant village centre
- Excellent hiking and biking
- Great restaurants and mountain food
- More authentic Alpine feeling
Best Things to Do
Explore the Historic Centre
A pleasant area perfect for a relaxed afternoon walk, full of:
- Cafés and wine bars
- Mountain restaurants
- Local boutiques
Mountain Panoramas
Even without skiing, visitors can enjoy:
- Scenic drives
- Cable cars
- Hiking routes
- Panoramic terraces
Summer Activities
In summer Bardonecchia becomes:
- Hiking paradise
- MTB destination
- Relaxing Alpine escape from the city heat
Insider Tip
Perfect destination for visitors wanting a "real Alpine town" atmosphere rather than a luxury resort feel.
Village 2
Sauze d'Oulx
The lively mountain village
Sauze d'Oulx is one of the most famous ski villages in the Via Lattea (Milky Way) ski area and has a more energetic and international atmosphere compared to Bardonecchia. Known for lively après-ski, panoramic terraces, vibrant village life and ski culture.
Why Tourists Love Sauze d'Oulx
- Beautiful mountain views
- Charming old centre
- Relaxed Alpine energy
- Great bars and aperitivo spots
- Perfect mix of nature and social atmosphere
Best Things to Do
Walk Through the Old Village
A beautiful historic area with:
- Stone streets and wooden chalets
- Mountain restaurants
- Panoramic viewpoints
Panoramic Aperitivo
One of the best things to do here — sit on a terrace with a drink while overlooking the Alps.
Winter Sports
Sauze is part of the famous Via Lattea Ski Area — one of the largest ski areas in Europe.
Insider Tip
Sauze d'Oulx works especially well for younger travellers, groups of friends, and visitors wanting both scenery and atmosphere.
Suggested Day Trip Options
Option 1
Half-Day Mountain Escape
Perfect for visitors staying in Turin.
- Morning departure
- Lunch in Bardonecchia or Sauze
- Village walk
- Aperitivo with mountain view
- Return to Turin
Option 2
Full-Day Alpine Experience
Combine both villages in one day.
- Morning in Bardonecchia
- Scenic drive through the mountains
- Afternoon and aperitivo in Sauze d'Oulx
Option 3
Sacra di San Michele + Alps
An excellent combination of culture, history, mountains and relaxation.
- Morning at Sacra di San Michele
- Afternoon in Bardonecchia or Sauze d'Oulx
Food & Local Specialities
Mountain restaurants and rifugi are often part of the experience itself. Visitors should try:
- Polenta
- Local cheeses
- Mountain charcuterie
- Handmade pasta
- Piemonte wines
- Genepy liqueur
Best Period to Visit
Winter
- Skiing and snow sports
- Magical snow atmosphere
- Christmas and New Year vibe
Summer
- Hiking and mountain biking
- Escaping Turin's heat
- Panoramic drives and terraces
Visitor Information
Travel Time from Turin
Approx. 1h15–1h40 depending on destination and traffic
Very easy by car via motorway.
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