BardoLesa

What is BardoLesa

The BardoLesa has become one of the most beloved winter events in Bardonecchia, in the Upper Susa Valley (Province of Turin, Piedmont). It is a fun-filled homemade sled race: each team builds their own snow vehicle from scratch, with no limits on shape or imagination, and launches themselves down a course set up at Campo Smith, at the foot of the slopes. The goal isn't just to reach the finish line, but to do it in the most spectacular and hilarious way possible.

A tradition born in 2016

The first edition dates back to 2016, conceived by Deputy Mayor Vittorio Montabone, who has always described it as one of the most anticipated and fun winter activities for both tourists and locals. Since then, the event has grown significantly, attracting thousands of people along the course and earning the nickname of the "craziest sled race in the world."

Out-of-the-box sleds

The charm of BardoLesa lies in the sleds themselves: true handcrafted works of art ranging from minimalist designs to elaborate creations. Recent editions have featured reproductions of the Eiffel Tower, mountain Vespas, boar-dozers, Noah's Arks, and vehicles with improbable names. A jury awards prizes in various categories, including the most beautiful, the ugliest, and the fastest sled.

Atmosphere and fun

The race takes place in the late afternoon and evening, often while it is snowing, with the crowd cheering as if they were at a stadium. With music, entertainment, and special guests, BardoLesa combines a passion for the mountains with the festive spirit of Bardonecchia, offering one of the most cheerful evenings of the Piedmontese ski season.

Organizers

The event is organized by the Pro Loco Bardonecchia in collaboration with the Municipality of Bardonecchia and ASD Colomion, the ski area operator.