Ski holidays for beginners
Planning your first ski trip
Planning your first ski holiday can feel overwhelming. Which resort should you choose? What equipment do you need? How do lift passes work? And what exactly is après-ski?
That's where we come in.
Our team of ski specialists are passionate skiers and snowboarders who have helped thousands of first-timers discover the mountains. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with family and friends, we'll guide you through every step of the booking process.
The easiest way to get started is with one of our beginner-friendly ski packages. We've bundled together everything you need for a stress-free first ski holiday, including flights, transfers, chalet accommodation, and the option to add our popular First Turns Package.
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Your complete beginner ski package: First Turn packages
Our beginner ski package includes:
- 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
First turns package example savings, Alpe d'Huez, 16th January 2027
If you booked all the elements separately, it would cost you around £689 (6 day lift pass = £310, 6 day skis, boots & helmet hire = £138, 6 days lessons = £240)
In Alpe d'Huez you can book a First Turns package on this date from £439 per adult, which is a saving of £250!
| Resort | Normal Price* | First Turns Package Price | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alpe D'Huez | from £689pp | from £439pp | £250pp |
| La Plagne | from £768pp | from £518pp | £250pp |
| Les Arcs | from £709pp | from £459pp | £250pp |
| Tignes | from £860pp | from £610pp | £250pp |
| Val Thorens | from £814pp | from £564pp | £250pp |
*Prices based on a package including six day lift pass, six day skis + boots + helmet hire, and six days of morning group lessons, from 16th January 2027
Making your first turns even easier
No need to research multiple suppliers or organise everything separately, we've done the hard work for you.
After a morning on the slopes, return to your catered chalet for afternoon tea and a relaxed evening with fellow skiers. It's the perfect environment to learn, build confidence and share stories from your day on the mountain.
Our First Turns Packages are available in carefully selected resorts with excellent beginner terrain, easy-to-navigate ski areas and highly regarded ski schools, giving you the ideal setting to progress at your own pace.
From your first ride on a chairlift to your first successful blue run, we'll help make your introduction to skiing as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Find out more about the ski resorts for beginners, where we offer First Turns Packages
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.
Explore First Turns packages in even more depth on the blog: First Turns Ski Packages: Everything You Need for Your First Ski Holiday
Ski chalet options for first-time ski holidays
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First Turns beginner ski packages
The best ski resorts for beginners
Choosing the right resort can make all the difference to your first ski holiday. The best beginner-friendly resorts combine gentle slopes, excellent ski schools and easy access to the mountain, helping you build confidence from your very first day on the snow.
We've carefully selected a handful of snow-sure resorts that offer ideal learning conditions, plenty of beginner terrain and welcoming village atmospheres. Whether you're taking your first lesson or progressing onto your first blue run, these resorts provide the perfect place to start your skiing journey.
Our favourite beginner ski resorts
- La Plagne: One of the most popular resorts for first-time skiers, La Plagne offers extensive beginner areas, wide-open pistes and plenty of gentle blue runs to progress onto once you've mastered the basics. Our ski-in/ski-out chalets in Belle Plagne make getting to lessons and the slopes quick and easy.
- Les Arcs: Les Arcs is well suited to beginners thanks to its excellent nursery slopes, high-quality ski schools and easy access to the wider ski area. The resort layout makes navigating the mountain straightforward, helping new skiers feel comfortable from day one.
- Alpe d'Huez: Known for its sunny weather and fantastic beginner terrain, Alpe d'Huez boasts accessible nursery slopes and a great selection of green and blue runs. The resort's sunny aspect often provides excellent visibility, creating ideal conditions for learning and building confidence on the snow.
Still deciding where to book? Explore our guide to the best ski resorts for beginners or speak to one of our ski specialists, who can help match you with the perfect resort for your first trip.
Our top tips for beginner ski holidays
- Protect your skin: Guard against the cold, wind, and sun with proper skincare. A good SPF is essential in the mountains.
- Shield your eyes: Wear sunglasses or goggles to keep your eyes safe from glare and wind.
- Dress in layers: Layer your clothing to stay warm, and remove layers if you get too hot.
- Get the right travel insurance: Ensure your policy covers skiing and winter sports.
- 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!).
- Fuel up: Start your day with a hearty breakfast cooked by your chalet hosts to keep your energy levels up.
- Get ski fit: A little pre-ski fitness goes a long way, consider trying an indoor or dry ski slope before your trip.
- Pack smart: Take a rucksack for water, snacks, extra layers, and your valuables.
- 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.
- Doyour research: Choose a resort that suits beginners. Our ski specialists are on hand to point you in the right direction.
- 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.