The mountain scenery around Courmayeur is spectacular, with fourteen 4,000+ metre mountain peaks above. The resort is one of several internationally famous centres in the Aosta Valley which runs up Italy's northwest border with France and Switzerland. Unlike Chamonix, Courmayeur is a very atmospheric resort where ancient buildings huddle along cobbled streets. The whole place oozes traditional charm, although local planners have allowed a few ugly concrete buildings to appear.he most famous run is the 20 km (13 mile) descent of the Vallée Blanche down to Chamonix from Helbronner Point (3369 m), reached in half an hour from the La Palud cable car station. The descent takes 4 to 5 hours allowing for breaks for food, drink and photographs. Once in Chamonix participants traditionally enjoy a "gigantic beer" before returning to Courmayeur by bus through the Mont Blanc Tunnel. For more experienced skiers there is a 2000 meter vertical descent down to La Palud which begins at Helbronner Point and continues over the Toula Glacier, after which it is named. Other popular runs are the Col d'Arp, l'Arp Veille and the Couloir of Dolonne.