Published: 05.07.2023
Last Updated: 24.08.2023
The best ski resorts for beginners
It’s never too late to take to the slopes and you really can take up skiing at any age. If you’re dreaming of your first skiing adventure in France, you’re in for a treat. With its picturesque alpine landscapes, world-class ski facilities, and renowned ski schools, France offers excellent ski resorts for beginners.
France has so many incredible resorts to choose from that it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start. Luckily, it also has some of the best resorts in Europe (if not the world) that cater specifically to beginners, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable (and not too daunting) skiing experience.
These resorts are not just nursery slopes and magic carpets, they are well-suited to adult first-timers with plenty of extras on offer to make it a well-rounded and exciting trip.
Tignes
Tignes has been hailed amongst the best ski resorts for beginners in the world. This popular destination offers a range of activities suitable for all, making it an ideal choice for group trips – particularly beginners.
With a diverse selection of gentle nursery slopes, Tignes provides ample opportunity to hone your skiing or boarding skills. Once you’ve gained confidence, you can progress to the selection of long, enjoyable blue runs to build up stamina and technique.
Additionally, Tignes’ high altitude ensures an extended ski season compared to most resorts, with excellent powder conditions that often last well into early spring. The resort also boasts a fantastic array of ski schools catering to all levels of ability.
A real bonus is that Tignes sits within the expansive Espace Killy ski area, meaning there is a wide variety of slopes, plus convenient access to neighbouring Val d’Isere.
Val d’Isère
Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Val d’Isère is a paradise for skiers of all levels, as well as those who like to unwind in the evenings.
While it’s renowned for its challenging terrain, it also offers fantastic options for beginners. The resort features designated beginner areas with gentle slopes and wide, well-groomed runs, providing an ideal learning environment.
The excellent ski schools, such as Oxygène Ski School and Evolution 2, have experienced instructors who specialise in teaching beginners across a range of ages. The village itself exudes charm, with its traditional alpine architecture, cosy cafes, and bustling après-ski scene, ensuring a well-rounded skiing experience for first-time adults.
Avoriaz
Situated in the renowned Portes du Soleil ski area, Avoriaz is a car-free resort that boasts a pedestrian-friendly layout and a unique architectural style.
One of the resort’s main attractions for beginners is its beginner-friendly slopes, which are conveniently located near the village centre. The Ecole du Ski Français (ESF) in Avoriaz offers excellent ski lessons for beginners, allowing them to quickly gain confidence on the slopes. It is often worth taking lessons for a couple of days to get you started, or in the mornings before exploring later on in the week or afternoons.
Additionally, the resort provides a range of non-ski activities, including snowshoeing and ice-skating, meaning that if you need a break from the slopes (or falling over) there are plenty of other opportunities for fun.
Les Arcs
Les Arcs is one of the best European ski resorts for beginners with a good selection of easy slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, as well as easy access. The area has a free beginners’ lift and nursery slopes above every main village throughout the resort.
And the best part is it’s ideal for foodies as much as it is for novice skiers. Once you’re done on the slopes, you can make the most of the delicious French cuisine. Located in the Savoie region, there are plenty of regional specialities on offer to warm you up.
Whether you fancy traditional tartiflette, raclette cheese, or the local speciality of blueberry tart, you won’t be short of choice. The French Alps have a host of beautiful ski resorts for beginners.
Les Deux Alpes
Located in the Isère department of southeastern France, Les Deux Alpes is a popular resort known for its vast ski area and extensive beginner facilities.
The resort boasts a dedicated beginner’s area with gentle slopes, offering a safe and comfortable space for newcomers to hone their skills. The ESF in Les Deux Alpes offers group lessons specifically tailored for beginners, as well as private lessons for those seeking personalized instruction.
Beyond skiing, visitors can enjoy the resort’s vibrant nightlife, ice rink, and numerous shops and restaurants, ensuring a memorable stay for beginners and non-skiers alike.
La Plagne
Situated in the Tarentaise Valley, La Plagne is a sprawling resort that caters to skiers of all abilities.
For beginners, the resort provides dedicated beginner areas with gentle slopes and magic carpets, making it easy to get started. The ESF in La Plagne offers a range of lessons for beginners, including group lessons and private instruction.
Additionally, the resort offers a host of non-ski activities, such as snowshoeing, ice climbing, and bobsledding, providing ample options for those who want to explore beyond the slopes. If après is not your thing, La Plagne has a slightly more laid back vibe and historically has the better snow down low towards the end of the season.
Your First Time Skiing
Ultimately, France offers a plethora of exceptional ski resorts for beginners. From the iconic slopes of Val d’Isère to the car-free village of Avoriaz, each resort provides a unique experience tailored to beginners.
Whether you’re seeking gentle slopes, patient instructors, or a vibrant après-ski scene, France has it all. So, lace up your boots, grab your skis, and get ready for an unforgettable skiing adventure in one of France’s best resorts for first-time skiers.
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