Nestled at the foot of Mount Blanc, thousands of elegant Italians visit the picturesque Alpine resort of Courmayeur in Italy every year. Their intention is not to ski but to enjoy the fresh air, luxury boutiques, excellent eateries and vibrant mountain atmosphere. For some reason, however, the British seem reluctant to visit ‘ski’ resorts, unless they intend to ski.

The truth is, at a resort like Courmayeur, we’re missing out. You need only spend an afternoon sitting on the terrace of one of the resort’s pretty restaurants or cafés to see a parade of smartly-dressed Italians enjoying all the shopping and culture that Courmayeur has to offer, without the slightest intention of ever putting on skis.

From taking the Skyway to the highest point reachable on Mont Blanc and enjoying the views (not to mention the engineering!), to eating at one of its three Michelin-starred restaurants, or just exploring the pretty Alpine town – there is plenty to do here for those not wishing to ski.