Heaven Publicity’s top picks for beginner ski holidays
Skiing is one of the most exhilarating winter sports, but choosing the right destination as a beginner can make all the difference. For first-timers and those looking to build their confidence on the slopes, finding the right mix of gentle terrain, quality instruction, and a welcoming atmosphere is key. In this blog, we will explore the best ski holidays tailored to beginners. Whether you’re taking your first ski lesson or perfecting your snowplough, these resorts offer the ideal environment to learn and enjoy the slopes.
Learn to ski in Arinsal, Andorra, with Solos Holidays
Tucked into the pleats of the Pyrenees, the dinky principality of Andorra punches above its weight in winter, from skiing and fiestas to a gourmet food-scene that features the best bits of France and Spain. Holidays aim to introduce the slopes without the pressures. The beginner’s week package is studded with a balance of skiing, spa lounging and vibrant après ski. Don’t know what to wear, unsure what equipment to use, and confused by the mountain lingo? Well, sit back, relax and let Solos Holidays whisk beginners off to the slopes to learn a new skill that will hopefully turn them into a life-long ski enthusiast. Skilled, qualified instructors will guide newbies through the basics, work on technique and build everyone’s confidence. The relaxed vibe of the area, and the variety of slopes in Arinsal, means it has become a safe and enjoyable place to learn how to ski. There are numerous nursery slopes with easy green and blue runs to progress onto in due course. The ski school in the resort is well renowned and amongst the best in the Pyrenees, adding to the area’s reputation for beginners. A seven-night Arinsal ski beginners week leaving on 26 January and 09 March 2025, staying at the 4* Yomo Patagonia hotel, ski-in-ski-out with spa, sauna and hammam on a half board basis with wine, costs from £1,894 pp, this includes return flights and transfers, airport taxes, welcome drink, six day lift pass, five days ski school for three hours and an accompanying Solos tour leader.
Solos (020 8951 2900, www.solosholidays.co.uk)
Hit the beginner slopes in Avoriaz, Portes du Soleil this winter
Located in the heart of the Portes du Soleil, one of the world’s largest ski areas with 650 km of interconnected slopes, Avoriaz stands out as a top destination for beginner skiers. The resort features gentle terrain, with a range of slopes specifically designed for newcomers. Wide, well-groomed pistes allow beginners to learn in a safe and comfortable environment, gradually building their confidence as they progress. Most beginner-friendly runs are located close to the main village, minimising travel time and maximising the opportunity to practice. The ESF ski school in Avoriaz offers a ‘You Can Ski’ all-inclusive beginner lesson package for adults, outside of school holidays. This is the perfect way to get started, a three-day pass is £220 and includes a lift pass, three half-day lessons and equipment rental. Another significant advantage of skiing in Avoriaz is its snow reliability. The resort benefits from a high altitude and consistent snowfall, ensuring good skiing conditions throughout the season. Fancy a day off? Why not try Ski-Jöering or Avo-Karting. A seven-night stay departing on 5 February 2025 at Dromonts Hotel, is priced from €1,153 pp / £969 pp based on two sharing a classic room with breakfast included. A six-day Portes du Soleil ski pass costs from €336 / £282 per adult and €252 / £212 per child.
Portes du Soleil: https://en.portesdusoleil.com/
Avoriaz: www.avoriaz.com/en/
Enjoy a spring getaway at Hôtel Le Mottaret in Méribel-Mottaret, France, with Ski France
For beginners looking to ease into the slopes, Ski France’s Hôtel Le Mottaret in Méribel-Mottaret offers the perfect setup. The hotel is ski-in, ski-out and conveniently located right next to the nursery slopes, making it incredibly easy to start your ski journey. Owned by Ski France for over 20 years, this flagship property not only provides direct access to green slopes and a series of lifts but also offers luxurious amenities to unwind after a day of practice. From a spacious lounge bar to a heated pool with jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room, guests can enjoy both skiing and relaxation. April is the perfect time for beginners in Méribel, with fantastic sunny conditions. A week’s B&B stay at Hôtel Le Mottaret, departing 3 April 2025, costs from £994.5 pp / £1,989 total (was £2,178, saving £189) for a Comfort room sleeping two people. Return flights, transfers, ski hire, lift passes, and other meals extra.
Ski France (0203 475 4756, www.skifrance.co.uk)
Discover the perfect beginner skiing experience in Megève, France
Megève in France is an idyllic destination for beginner skiers, renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and gentle slopes, ideal for those new to skiing. Although its ski area draws many seasoned skiers, Megève is exceptionally well-suited to beginners. The resort has dedicated spaces tailored to learning, including secure training zones, fun areas with games, specialised ski lifts, and clear signage designed to guide novices. With gentle slopes, beginners find it easier to practice turning, controlling speed, and overcoming the initial fear of falling. This makes Megève perfect for first-timers, those easing back into skiing, or anyone entirely new to the sport—all against the stunning backdrop of the Mont-Blanc mountains. A seven night stay at Mamie Megève is priced from £595 pp based on four sharing a Deluxe Room with breakfast included. Flights and transfers extra.
Megève: www.megeve-tourisme.fr/en/
For easy turns head and guaranteed snow go to Obergurgl in the Austrian Tirol
Located at the end of the Ötztal, Obergurgl, has been a popular choice for British families learning to ski since the 1960s. Its high village altitude of 1,950m, with a top lift reaching 3,080m, ensures reliable snow cover throughout the season — ideal for beginners taking their first turns at village level. The local ski schools maintain high teaching standards, with all instructors fluent in English. Lessons are affordable, offered both morning and afternoon, unlike many French schools that limit group sessions to the morning. For parents, it’s worth confirming that children are comfortable with post-lunch skiing or checking for accommodation with childcare options. Hotel Edelweiss & Gurgl caters perfectly to families with a spa and swimming pool, and a convenient location for both slopes and après-ski. A seven night stay at Hotel Edelweiss & Gurgl is priced from £1,459 pp based on two sharing a double room with breakfast included. Flights and transfers extra.
Austrian Tirol: www.tyrol.com
Relish beginner-friendly slopes and stunning views in La Tzoumaz in the heart of Verbier, Switzerland
La Tzoumaz, nestled in the renowned Verbier region, is a fantastic destination for beginner skiers. This charming resort boasts 55km of well-maintained slopes, with access to an additional 355km across the expansive Four Valleys ski area. For those new to skiing, La Tzoumaz offers a selection of wide, gentle slopes ideal for building confidence and mastering basics. The Etablons slope, in particular, is a favorite among novices, providing a smooth, welcoming run perfect for early practice. With its scenic, approachable terrain and supportive environment, La Tzoumaz is a haven for beginners eager to embrace the slopes. A seven night stay in PAPILL’ON Boutique Hotel is priced from £884 pp based on two sharing a double room with breakfast included. Flights and transfers extra.
Verbier: www.verbier.ch
These beginner-friendly ski destinations are sure to inspire travellers to embark on their own snowy adventures this winter. From the welcoming slopes of Andorra and the reliable snow of Obergurgl to the vibrant après-ski scene in Avoriaz and the picturesque charm of Megève, each location offers a unique blend of terrain, instruction, and atmosphere that’s ideal for new skiers. Whether guests are taking their first lesson or looking to build confidence on the slopes, these resorts make skiing accessible and enjoyable, setting the stage for a lifelong love of winter sports.
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For more information please contact Emma Berg at emmab@heavenpublicity.co.uk or Rachel Johnston at rachel@heavenpublicity.co.uk
