Beginner Ski Holidays

If this is your first time to hit the snowy slopes you can rest assured that you're in good hands with us. Our programme currently covers France, Austria, Italy, and Andorra. Each has resorts suitable for beginners and all have their own individual charm. When browsing resorts just check out our suitability rating panel at the top of each resort page. Here is some handy advice and great beginner ski holidays to help you make the most of your first ski trip.

Flights with baggage included

Return transfers to resort

Great Accommodation

24/7 in-resort support

Fully licensed and bonded

Our Top Tips for your Beginner Ski Holidays

Choosing Your Destination

French ski resorts are often purpose built and so it is very easy to find your way from the hotel to the ski shop to collect your skis and boots and get onto the slopes.

Austria is the traditional home of skiing and first time skiers will love the cosy atmosphere and outstanding scenery which its resorts offer.

Italians have carried their love for life through to their skiing and you will find their resorts friendly and entertaining both on and off the slopes.

Andorra is particularly popular with beginners, with slopes there being relatively gentle and is renowned for its excellent ski schools.

Booking your beginners ski holiday

Find your holiday using our Holiday Finder on our home page which lets you specify date, where you want to go, the number in your party, where you’re flying from and the type of accommodation you are looking for. You will be able to reserve your ski pack (ski school, lift pass and ski/board and boot hire) when you are making your booking. Remember to look for the “Learn to Ski”; and “Learn to Snowboard” packs which can save you 10% in specific resorts, so be sure to speak to a member of our team before booking if you are interested in these.

Before you go

Before you head off on your ski trip, you will need to get kitted out with the right gear. First time skiers often borrow or rent their ski clothing and you can also check some of the big supermarket chains who have ski clothing from time to time. If you would like help on what you need to bring, please feel free to chat to a member of the Direct Ski team.

Your first day

Your first morning in the resort will involve a trip to the ski shop to collect your pre-booked ski and snowboard equipment and your rep will be there to make your first morning much easier. Take your time and make sure you get the right boots for your feet. Trying on a different pair of boots could make all the difference to your comfort levels for the week. Once you've got your boots you’ll get your skis and poles or board.

These proceedings are usually quite a frantic affair, so we recommend you have a good breakfast and get down there nice and early. Your rep will give you directions on the coach from the airport.

Once you arrive at the beginner slopes you’ll be introduced to your English speaking ski instructor who will show you how to stand and walk in your new skis and will be teaching you how to ski for the remainder of the week.

The rest of the week

Most people find the first day or two a little tiring and you’ll discover muscles you never knew you had. However as the week goes on and, with plenty of apres ski activity, you’ll find yourself making real progress. Usually the ski school organises some races for the last day so that everybody can show off their new skills.

Things to know on your beginner ski holidays

Learning to ski is great fun and very sociable. You’re on your holidays - enjoy!

In selected resorts, you will find reduced cost Learn to Ski packs containing everything you need to hit the slopes including ski & boot hire, lessons and a lift pass. Learn to Snowboard packs are also available. Please speak to the team for more information.

Experienced representatives in all our European ski resorts are there to help you find your feet and give you guidance during your stay. They will greet you at your arrival airport and be available throughout your holiday and will always be contactable via WhatsApp.