Start skiing in the Chamonix valley
Never tried skiing before? Go for it! Go for it!
In the Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley, if you've never skied before and want to give it a try, it's possible & it's easy.
Even if you don't have any ski clothes, we have an all-inclusive package with clothes, mask, gloves, helmet and ski equipment, plus an instructor ready to teach you how to ski!
If you've never skied before or are just starting out, here's all the advice you need to prepare for your holiday!
Ski areas
The Chamonix valley is a paradise for ski lovers, with several ski areas to suit all levels. Each of these areas offers pistes and lifts that are accessible to beginners.
The following ski areas are the best places to start skiing in the Chamonix valley:
Aux Houches
En bas du village :
- Domaine du Tourchet : Located in the heart of Les Houches, Le Tourchet is easy to get to, whether you're staying in Les Houches or elsewhere in the Chamonix valley. The resort has two ski lifts and is close to car parks and bus stops.
En altitude :
- Domaine des Houches : At the top of the Prarion gondola, you'll find a beginners' area with a conveyor belt and a chairlift that takes you up to the green “Ecole” slope.
À Chamonix
At the bottom of the village :
Domaine des Planards: Located just outside the centre of Chamonix, this is a great option for beginners. There are easy runs, a ski lift suitable for novices, and even a conveyor belt for ski lessons for toddlers. Les Planards is also equipped with snow cannons to ensure good skiing conditions throughout the season.
Domaine du Savoy: Located in the centre of Chamonix, at the foot of the Brévent, Le Savoy is a small ski area perfect for beginners. There are two ski lifts and a free conveyor belt, with very gentle slopes. This site is very accessible and convenient for those staying in the heart of Chamonix.
At altitude :
Domaine du Brévent: At the top of the Planpraz gondola, take the ‘Funi 2000’ funicular to enjoy the beginners' area with stunning views of the Mont Blanc massif!
À ARGENTIERE
- Domaine des Chosalets: Near Argentière, Les Chosalets is a small ski area offering green and blue runs, ideal for beginners and children. It's a peaceful place where you can take your time learning the basics.
AU TOUR
- Domaine de la Vormaine : Located at the base of the Tour ski area, La Vormaine is another perfect area for beginners. Its slopes are wide and gentle, ideal for learning to ski in complete tranquillity. What's more, the setting is magnificent, with splendid views of Mont Blanc.
À VALLORCINE
Domaine de la Poya : is located in the hamlet of Le Buet, near Vallorcine. A small family ski area with two ski lifts, a snow line for beginners and a gondola lift for toddlers.
Ecoles de ski et snowboard
Find out more about ski area opening times for the 2025-2026 season:
Location de ski et snowboard
Skiing in the valley
1st Ski Experience packages
2 packages are available:in Chamonix or Les Houches
Premium package in Chamonix Mont Blanc (Les Planards) which includes :
- Instructor
- Ski equipment
- Clothing (Jacket, Pants, Gloves,Mask)
- Duration: 3 hours
Basic package in Les Houches including :
- Instructor
- Ski equipment
- Les Houches ski pass
Duration: 1h30 or 2h30
FAQ 1st Ski Experience
- I've never skied before, are these packages right for me?
Yes, these packages are designed for complete beginners. - Do I need to bring my own equipment or clothing?
In Chamonix, all equipment is provided (lift pass included) ; in Les Houches, only the clothes are not, but the lift pass is included. - What is the minimum age for participation?
10 in Les Houches, 12 in Chamonix. - Is the lift pass included?
Yes in Les Houches; no in Chamonix (Les Planards pass to be added 29.80€ for 4 hours). - How many people can participate?
InChamonix from 1 to 4 people per private lesson.
In Les Houches from 1 to 5 people
It's important to note that all participants must be at the same beginner level, and that we don't usually mix children and adults. - If there are 6 of us, how can we book?
In this case, take 2 lessons for 3 people - Do the ski instructors speak good English?
Yes, no problem, just select the language you want. - Can we try this first experience on a snowboard instead of skis?
Yes, it's possible, just mention in the comments section of the booking process that you'd like to try snowboarding. - How does a beginner session work?
Discovery of equipment, balance, first glides and then a suitable slope. - If I get tired during a session, can I stop early?
Yes, the instructor adapts to your condition. But in general, people enjoy the lesson and even want to continue longer. - And if I've really enjoyed it and want to continue skiing a little longer, is that possible?
Yes, all you have to do is go to the store next door and ask to keep your equipment a little longer for an extra charge.