There’s nothing quite like sharing a ski holiday with your favourite people. Picture this: carving down fresh pistes with your best mates, laughing about wipeouts on the chairlift back up, finding hidden mountain spots for lunch, and, of course, dancing together long after the lifts have closed. Ski holidays are special on your own, but when you’re travelling with a group of friends, the experience is magnified. But what happens when you’re in mixed ability ski groups?
Some of your friends might be seasoned powder hunters who know their DIN settings by heart, while others are total beginners still learning how to stop without falling over. Add into the mix a few intermediates, snowboarders, or even those who are there purely for après ski — and suddenly the choice of resort becomes crucial.
The best ski resorts for groups have perfected the balance over decades. They offer varied terrain, lively après, and accommodation options that make life easier when you’re travelling as a big bunch. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the top resorts for mixed ability ski groups, with a few insider tips along the way.
Mixed Ability Ski Groups: Where to Ski?
Val Thorens: Party Meets Variety
Val Thorens is legendary for groups, and for good reason. Increasingly famous for its après ski scene, this high-altitude resort gets top marks for entertainment as well as skiing.
On the slopes, Val Thorens is part of the Three Valleys, the world’s largest ski area, so there’s no shortage of terrain for every ability. Beginners can find confidence on wide, forgiving blues while experts dive into steep blacks and off-piste bowls. It’s easy to split off and ski at your own pace, then meet up again at one of the mountain restaurants for lunch.
Off the slopes, Val Thorens is one of the best places in the Alps for group après. From La Folie Douce and 360 Bar where the dancing starts before the lifts even close, to Malaysia, one of the biggest nightclubs in the Alps, VT knows how to keep the fun going. The compact village layout means you’re always close to the action, and accommodation ranges from self-catered apartments to luxury chalets — perfect for splitting costs between a group.
Why it works for a mixed ability ski group: Huge ski area, beginner-friendly runs, advanced off-piste, and buzzing après.
St Anton: A Legend for Groups
If Val Thorens is Europe’s party capital, then St Anton is its wild sibling. Known worldwide for après ski that begins while you’re still in ski boots, St Anton is a rite of passage for groups of friends.
Skiing here is no less impressive. The Arlberg region offers vast terrain, from long cruisey blues to challenging steeps and off-piste that powder hounds dream about. Beginners may find the slopes a little tougher compared to French resorts, but for confident intermediates and above, it’s a playground. For mixed ability groups, a good tactic is to base yourself near the Nasserein area where the skiing is gentler, then regroup in town for après.
Speaking of après, Mooserwirt and Krazy Kanguruh are iconic venues where dancing on tables is practically mandatory. The energy is infectious, and it’s almost impossible not to make friends from other groups while you’re there.
Why it works for a mixed ability ski group: Vast ski area, plenty of catered chalets, legendary après — though beginners should be prepared for a challenge.
Meribel: The Heart of the Three Valleys
If you’re looking for the perfect base for mixed ability ski groups, Méribel should be top of your list. Sitting in the middle of the Three Valleys, the resort is perfectly positioned for exploring both Courchevel and Val Thorens. This means access to over 600km of runs, with every gradient you can imagine.
Beginners will love the dedicated learner zones and wide blue runs, while intermediates have endless choices of cruising pistes. Experts can challenge themselves on the famous couloirs in Courchevel or head off-piste with a guide. Because the lift system is modern and efficient, it’s easy for groups to split up by ability and still meet up without hassle.
Après in Méribel is equally group-friendly. The legendary Rond Point (or Ronnie, as it’s affectionately known) is a favourite, while La Folie Douce brings the party atmosphere to the slopes. In the evenings, the town offers a mix of lively bars, cosy restaurants, and plenty of accommodation ranging from budget apartments to luxury Signature chalets.
Why it works for mixed ability ski groups: Central location in the world’s biggest ski area, easy-to-navigate runs, and après to suit every mood.
Val d’Isere
Few names in skiing carry the same weight as Val d’Isère. Famed for its dramatic scenery, reliable snow, and the enormous Espace Killy ski area (shared with Tignes), this resort offers something for everyone.
Beginners benefit from excellent ski schools and wide nursery slopes, while intermediates can explore a seemingly endless mix of blue and red runs. For advanced skiers, Val d’Isère boasts some of the steepest pistes in Europe — and that’s before you even venture off-piste.
At the end of the day, the whole mountain funnels back into the town centre, making it easy to regroup. The après here is vibrant but slightly more sophisticated than the all-out party vibe of Val Thorens or St Anton, with venues like Cocorico striking the perfect balance.
Why it works for a mixed ability ski group: Huge variety of pistes, world-class ski schools, and a lively but versatile après scene.
Tips for Mixed Ability Ski Groups
- Choose a large ski area. Resorts like the Three Valleys, Arlberg, or Espace Killy mean no one gets bored, no matter their level.
- Agree on meeting points. Plan to regroup at mountain restaurants or après spots so everyone feels included.
- Book early. Larger chalets and group-friendly accommodation go fast. Plus, early booking discounts can save big money.
- Mix it up. Dedicate some time to skiing as a group, even if it means sticking to easier runs, then allow everyone to explore at their own pace.
The Bottom Line
Travelling as mixed ability ski groups can be one of the most rewarding ways to experience the mountains. With the right resort, you’ll find terrain for every level, après ski that keeps everyone entertained, and accommodation that makes group living fun rather than stressful. Whether you’re chasing powder in St Anton, soaking up the après in Val Thorens, or cruising the blues of Méribel, there’s a perfect destination waiting for your group this winter.
Like many people here, Ryan is happiest in the mountains – skiing is his greatest passion. Lucky enough to have skied in over 30 resorts in Europe, Canada and the USA, he loves nothing more than travelling and discovering new mountains to explore on his telemark skis. Bring on the next bluebird powder day!
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