Just 1¼ mls across, Sauze d'Oulx has spread in a rather haphazard fashion, radiating out from the original village centre with little regard for aesthetic appeal or chocolate-box attractiveness - a mishmash of old and new. The centre houses the usual collection of ski-wear outlets and souvenir emporia with the tourist office literally in the middle of the main town square. The streets are often steep and winding, and can be quite hazardous in icy weather. All in all, a bit of an ugly duckling but one with a fun-filled and friendly personality.

Unsophisticated, middle-of-the-road resort with young, relaxed and unfussy clientele. Suits families with children. British guests predominate. Not ideal for first-time skiers or beginners; second-year skiers and above will get the most from it.

A mixed bunch, mainly 2- and 3-star; only a few 4-star properties in entire resort. Most are purpose built; a few reflect a more traditional style.

Limited to sports shops, supermarkets and the usual range of souvenir outlets.

Daytime: limited to winter-sports activities and exploring the resort; little to occupy nonskiers. Nightlife: reasonable range of local bars and restaurants, including a few disco pubs and karaoke bar. One main disco.

Good selection of restaurants and pizzerias to suit all tastes and pockets.

Two ski-bus routes ply the town at regular intervals and there is a local bus service to Oulx, down in the valley, where there is a main-line train station for services to Turin and France.

In NW Italy, in the Piemonte region. 10 mls NE of Montgenevre and French border. 46 mls W of Turin and its airport. 135 mls W of Milan and its airport.

On sloping NW-facing shelf at W end of Valle di Susa in W Italian Alps. Forms part of ViaLattea ski-area - or the "Milky Way", as it is commonly known.

Post Code: 10050
Website: www.comune.sauzedoulx.to.it

Airport : Caselle
Airport Code: TRN
Flight time from ther U.K.: 1 hr 45 mins