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Beginner ski holidays

beginner snowploughing on ski slope

Planning your first ski holiday can feel like tumbling down a mountain - trust us, we've been there.

Where to go, where to stay, what to book, what to wear, and what even is après-ski? Don’t worry, that’s exactly what we’re here for. Our friendly team of ski specialists are passionate skiers and snowboarders who love talking all things snow (you name it, we've skied it), and are on hand to see you off to a flying start. 

The easiest way to get started with beginner ski holidays is with one of our complete packages which include regional flights to beginner-friendly French resorts, transfers and chalet accommodation with catering.

We can even help you add on all the extra essentials you might not be aware of. Save hassle, time and money with a first turns package and tick off everything you'll need to get started on the snow. Lift pass, ski and boot hire with helmet, six days of morning lessons? You're all set. 

From picking the right resort to making sure you’ve got somewhere comfortable to rest tired legs, we’ll take care of the details so you can focus on all the firsts - first lifts, first mountain views and first turns. Before you know it, you’ll be carving like a pro!

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Beginner ski packages - unlock your first turns

Looking to learn to ski? A beginner ski holiday isn't complete without a first turns package. We've all been beginners at one point or another, and we know how overwhelming it can be to organise things when you aren't sure what exactly a trip entails. So, we've kept things simple by wrapping up all the extra essentials in one easy bundle to include:

  • A local lift pass (your key to the slopes)
  • Ski and boot hire with helmet (plus poles if you're skiing)
  • Five or six mornings of ski lessons with a fully-qualified, English-speaking instructor

You chalet hosts are also on hand to help with pointing you in the right direction for your lessons - there's nothing worse than getting lost while lugging around your ski gear! At the end of the day, return to the comfort of your chalet and tuck into some well-deserved afternoon tea.

One of the best things about staying in a ski chalet is the catering is all taken care of; the last thing you'll want to do post-ski is stand behind an oven for hours! Plus, you'll be able to celebrate your achievements and share stories of the day with like-minded mountain lovers if you opt for a shared chalet.

First turn packages are avaliable in specially chosen resorts with excellent beginner terrain, giving you the ideal environment to learn at your own pace and make steady progress. Where will your learning take you? 


Book your complete beginner ski package and learn a new skill, prices from £439 for adults, and children from £370 (lift pass, ski hire and ski lessons).

*Please note, packages may be cancelled if minimum numbers are not met, and peak dates such as Christmas, New Year and February half term are available on request and subject to availability.

The best ski resorts for beginners

As the UK's largest independent ski chalet company, we know a thing or two about what makes a successful ski holiday. And for your first trip, getting a head start on planning is all the more important. At Skiworld, we take care of every detail so you can focus on enjoying your time in the mountains. We've selected a handful of snow-sure resorts ideal for beginners, with plenty of gentle slopes ideal for finding your ski legs. Plus, each offers easy access to ski schools and local amenities so you're never far from the action.

Our favourite resorts for a beginner ski holiday

  • La Plagne - Offers some lovely cruisy blues to perfect yours moves on. As well as ski-in/ski-out accommodation in Belle-Plagne, so you don't have too far to go to the nursery slopes or the ski school meeting point.
  • Les Arcs - Ideal for first-time skiers, Les Arcs offers easy access to the slopes and excellent nursery areas that are perfect for building confidence from day one. The ski schools here are known for their high standards and supportive teaching style,
  • Alpe d'Huez - This resort offers easy-to-reach nursery slopes and some outstanding green and blue runs to play on. This ski resort also holds the record for the highest number of sunny days per season so there's less chance of having to contend with adverse weather and white outs.

Still unsure? Explore the best ski resorts for beginners and book with confidence, or speak to one of our ski specialists. 

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What's it like on a beginner ski holiday?

Our top tips for beginner ski holidays

  1. Protect your skin - Guard against the cold, wind, and sun with proper skincare. A good SPF is essential in the mountains.
  2. Shield your eyes -  Wear sunglasses or goggles to keep your eyes safe from glare and wind.
  3. Dress in layers - Layer your clothing to stay warm, and remove layers if you get too hot.
  4. Get the right travel insurance - Ensure your policy covers skiing and winter sports.
  5. Borrow ski gear before investing - If it’s your first trip, consider borrowing ski clothes instead of buying – just in case skiing isn’t your thing (though we’re confident you’ll love it!).
  6. Fuel up - Start your day with a hearty breakfast cooked by your chalet hosts to keep your energy levels up.
  7. Get ski fit - A little pre-ski fitness goes a long way – consider trying an indoor or dry ski slope before your trip.
  8. Pack smart - Take a rucksack for water, snacks, extra layers, and your valuables.
  9. Wear a helmet - Safety first! Treat it like cycling – a helmet is a must. Our first-turn packages include a helmet as part of your ski hire. 
  10. Doyour research - Choose a resort that suits beginners. Our ski specialists are on hand to point you in the right direction. 
  11. Have fun - Relax, enjoy the experience, and make the most of your time on the slopes! Embrace the atmosphere you'll only ever find in the mountains. 

FAQs for beginner skiers

Who is the first turns package for?

Our first turn packages are specially designed for beginner skiers, with a local area lift pass, ski hire with helmet and five/six days of morning lessons included. If you've skied before, you can still add these elements to your holiday booking but this discount saving is only available for beginners. 

I don't know if I want to ski or snowboard, can I do both?

You'll need to make a decision whether you'll be skiing or snowboarding for the week. It could be worth investing in a lesson at an indoor ski slope first to understand which you'd prefer to learn. You can always come back to it in the future, and it's usually easier to learn once you have an understanding of snowsports. 

What do I need to wear for skiing?

If it’s your first time this can be confusing. Make sure you have a thermal underlayer, a fleece on top and a waterproof outer layer. On top of this you’ll need cold weather gloves, ski socks, goggles, a helmet and probably a face covering like a Buff. Most of this can be picked up cheaply or even hired if you book far enough ahead.

What else do I need to bring for the slopes?

When you’re sitting out for lunch you might want to swap your goggles and helmet for sunglasses and a beanie. Don’t forgot lip balm and sun cream as the sun can be intense bouncing off the snow. Plus water and a little rucksack to chuck it all in. Make sure to grab a piste map in resort too. 

How do I stay safe on the mountain?

Aside from wearing a helmet and respecting the snow conditions, it’s good to brush up on skiing etiquette. The basics are –
  • Give right of way to the trailblazers below you
  • Leave plenty of space when overtaking, they can’t see you and can move anywhere
  • Look up for oncoming skiers when merging and starting, those folk are already speeding through
  • Always stop on the side of the piste and never below a lip, visibility is key to staying safe

Should l book ski or snowboard lessons on beginner ski holidays?

Absolutely! If you’re a beginner the need is obvious. But we recommend them to everyone, the more you improve the more the mountain opens up to you. The true joys of skiing only reveal themselves after quite a bit of development. If you are travelling on a school holiday date, we would strongly advise you book early as there are only a limited number of instructors out there!

We can help you organise lessons ahead of time so everything is prepared and protected – just look at the options on Manage My Booking.

How difficult is it to ski on the slopes?

Your piste map and the signs in the mountain will all be colour coded. In Europe this normally goes –
  • Green: Nursery slope for learning
  • Blue: Easy to ski for most everyone
  • Red: Intermediate and advanced skiers here
  • Black: The most difficult runs for confident skiers

Please note some of this can be ‘best guess’ by the resort. A blue may have a short steep bit in, or be steep overall but very wide giving you lots of space and time to turn.

How fit do I need to be for my beginner ski holiday?

You can cruise around blues for days if you take it slow. But skiing is still a whole body work out (not just legs!) and having good overall fitness will certainly help you enjoy it more. A few weeks before your holiday, add in a few extra exercises to get your mobility up and your muscles firing.