In the heart of the Italian Alps lies the little town of Courmayeur — the kind of place you might pass without realizing it’s home to one of the most incredible heli-skiing operations in the world. You step inside and are instantly greeted by the staff: effortlessly Italian — relaxed, talkative, and casually sipping espresso. Meanwhile, you can feel your own anticipation building.

We meet our guide, Federico — modest in stature, but with a calm confidence that commands respect. His quiet authority comes not from bravado, but from his deep understanding of the mountains he calls home.

As we wait for the helicopter, nerves start to settle… until Federico suddenly says, “Down next to your skis.” A moment later, the distant thump of rotor blades turns into a roar as the A-Star heli descends at a ferocious pace. Skis are tossed in, you’re shoved aboard, and before you can catch your breath, the power surges and you’re airborne — soaring into the Italian Alps.

Moments later, you’re stepping out on the shoulder of Mont Blanc, staring down at nearly 5,000 feet of untouched vertical drop — a single run that feels like the top of the world.