Even the trilingual name of this mountain range — the Seealpen, the Alpi Marittime and the Alpes de la Mer — evokes the mystical sounds of the sea, the Alps and the neighbouring countries of France and Italy. One might imagine gentle Mediterranean hills rather than the 3,297-metre summit of Argentera. Unlike the many surrounding summits, which offer ideal ski touring terrain, this peak forms the rocky throne of the Maritime Alps and cannot be climbed on skis. Thanks to their proximity to the sea, these mountains are also among the snowiest in the Alps — at least as far as such superlatives still apply in the era of climate change.
With an average of eleven metres of snowfall per winter, the Maritime Alps truly stand out. And while it may sound bold, we have often encountered some of the best snow conditions in the Alps here over the years. From dreamlike powder to perfect spring firn, everything is possible.
Combining these outstanding ski tours with Piedmontese cuisine and wines such as Barolo, Barbera and Barbaresco, together with French ease and Italian sociability, creates an unforgettable experience.
If the weather permits, we can gaze from the summit of Rocca dell’Abisso (2,755 m) all the way to the sea, completing the alpine journey. On clear days, the view stretches from the white peaks of Corsica in the south to Monviso, the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa in the north — an unforgettable panorama that has likely inspired the name of this mountain range.
But what would the Maritime Alps — or Piedmont — be without their legendary cuisine and exceptional wines? How many passionate ski tourers, for example, choose the well-known Val Maira as much for its exceptional cuisine as for its abundant snow?
In the Maritime Alps, we stay in a beautifully renovated farmhouse (agriturismo) which offers excellent food and wine.
Most of our ski tours take place in lesser-known side valleys on both sides of the Italian–French border. Overall, the Maritime Alps are perhaps the most beautiful and rewarding alternative to the now overcrowded Val Maira, offering slightly fewer touring options but still more than enough to keep you busy for a month.