Anyone got any tips for Courmayer?
You can take the piste down from the Youla (the lower lift) and you can go up the Arp just to check out the views etc, but the ‘itineraries’ and backcountry accessible off the Arp require solid backcountry skills, equipment and preferably a guide.
I’ve ridden there loads and was there in 2017 when a big slide happened in the area below the Youla (and the FWT couloirs) and next to the Gabba, killing 3 people. Please don’t under-estimate the ‘slack-country’
If the relatives want to tour near resort, then I can definitely recommend getting a local guide (there is a Guides Company in the town) and heading off the back of the Arp into Val Venny. There’s a long summer road along the valley bottom to return to resort lift (Zerrota) but one of the restaurants near the lift will come and pick you up with a rope and skidoo/sled. (you don’t have to but it’s kindof expected to have a pizza in their restaurant when they’ve picked you up)
As others have said the Helbronner area is a step up from the resort area – it’s glaciated and really requires a guide, plus touring gear inc skins; boot crampons; ski crampons; harness & glacier kit & ice-axe. If it’s in condition it’s a 2000m run down to the valley bottom. There’s also the ‘Marbre’ on the other side of the lift/refuge towards the dent du geant. I’ve done both sides on both solid board & splitboard so touring might be optional depending on your route but boot crampons etc are mandatory. Your guide can advise further.
The main ski area is great – it has wide open slopes on the top and tree lined runs facing Mont Blanc/Monte Bianco. It’s usually pretty quiet during the week (unless it is an Italian Holiday).