The secret to an amazing ski trip is to make it as seamless as possible. There’s a lot to think about and the logistics might seem daunting but we’ve put together some useful hints and tips to get you on your way.
RESEARCH THE BEST SKI RESORTS IN EUROPE
With so many resorts to choose from around the world, this can be an absolute minefield and if you’re not careful, it can become quite stressful. First things first, look for a resort which is suitable for beginners. The Portes du Soleil is a huge resort in France and Switzerland that offers over 650km of pistes. Within this resort, you’ll find some excellent long runs for beginners at Pre le Joux and you can book lessons here. Super Châtel also offers some great runs for novice skiers and has the added bonus of amazing mountain views.
CONSIDER A SELF-CATERED SKI CHALET
When booking a ski trip, there are some really important things to consider (see bullet points below) and you don’t want to get these wrong. No-one enjoys walking for miles in ski boots, carrying skis and poles, in order to catch a bus or find the chair lift, this will not be a good start to your holiday!
Chalet la Fontaine in France is located a convenient 90-minute drive from Geneva Airport. It offers a self-catered chalet experience (which takes a lot of hassle out of your trip) and the chalet is literally opposite the bus stop (so you can be on the chair lift within minutes).
- Accommodation type (catered chalet vs self-catered chalet vs hotel)
- Hot tub (Always a bonus to be able to soak your aching muscles)
- Distance to ski lifts (How close is your accommodation?)
- Transfer time from airport (Some resorts are 3+ hours away by bus)
- Ski equipment hire (Try to arrange this in advance)
- Lift passes (How much do they cost?)
- Childcare (Do you require this?)
- Après ski (Essential after a long day skiing!)
If you stay at Chalet la Fontaine, you can book your equipment hire in advance with skihire2u, and it will be delivered direct to the chalet on the day you arrive.
MASTER THE ART OF SKIING: BOOK SKI SCHOOL
Ok, so now you’ve whittled down your destination, type of accommodation and equipment hire, it’s time to get some lessons booked. If you live near a ski dome then it’s not a bad idea to try a couple of lessons there first. This will give you a feel for what’s involved and who knows, maybe you were born to ski!
Once you’ve booked your trip, it’s a good idea to start making inquiries about lessons in the resort. ESF in Châtel, France offers both group lessons or private lessons. Definitely book your lessons before you arrive in the resort, it will save you a lot of hassle. Find out where you need to be and at what time in advance. There is nothing worse than rushing around on your first day!
MAKE SURE YOU PACK ESSENTIALS
You will definitely need to buy a few bits and pieces before you travel. Remember that buying clothes in the resort could be more expensive. Below is a checklist of some useful items you should buy before your trip. Check out our handy packing guide Top Tips on What to Pack for your Ski Trip.
- Ski jacket, salopettes / trousers
- Thermals / base layers
- Ski socks
- Helmet, skis/board, poles (can all be hired)
- Ski goggles
- Ski gloves
- Inner gloves + hand warmers if you suffer from the cold!
- Balaclava / beanie hat
If you are looking for a large chalet, check out Chalet la Fontaine which comfortably sleeps 8-10 people, click here to enquire.