We stayed in Cielo Alto area. We rented an apartment there because of the view at Monte Cervino, which was amazing, and were aware that it is not located close to base station. We knew that we have to take gondola to Laghi Cime Bianch in order to be able to ski there. What we did not expect was that the gondola to middle part of the area would be in operation only 2 days out of 6. The first day when the gondola did not operate we went for bus, as all the others living in the area. We all did not get on the bus; I had to drive back down to pick rest of the family. Next day when it happened I rather walked up the slope from base for the car. The problem is that the company operating the lifts shows every morning status orange as On Standby so you hope it will be in operation. Then between 11 and 12 they change it to red and even if the weather improves later, they do not open it. The other option to get to to Cielo Alto could be to take the chair lift from Plan Maison (if in operation) and the "green" slope to Laghi Cime Bianch, which requires about 10 minutes of moderate climb on a groomed track. You can also drive down to the village. There were free places next to base station during weekdays, but the parking lot was full during weekend. You may need chains, especially after a snow day.

We looked at forecast and decided to buy 6 days international ski pass and we were aware that we may not be able to get to Zermatt every day. The cost is similar as if you buy 3 days International and 3 days Cervinia. In reality, the way to Zermatt was opened only one day, to Valtournenche valley only 2 days. It can be difficult to buy passes every day, because except of one day, each morning Zermatt was announced until 11am as On Standby. You could check weather forecast and look on web at lift status for few days to get an impression before you go there. I checked the lifts status 2 weeks after we returned back, it seemed to follow the same pattern.

The lifts did not operate one whole day because of wind. We got voucher for one day for next season.

Overal, we have a good memory for the week; views of Monte Cervino are amazing from any side. I’d say it is worth of visiting.