You are coming to Haute-Savoie for your first ski vacation and are looking for ideal resorts for beginners to start with confidence? Good news: this department is full of ski areas perfect for novices. Between gentle slopes, educational supervision, and suitable equipment, here is a selection of the best resorts to learn the basics while enjoying a charming setting.
1. Le Grand-Bornand
Located in the Aravis massif, Le Grand-Bornand is an ideal destination for beginners.
- Why choose this resort?
With its well-maintained green slopes accessible right from the village, it offers progressive learning. The area also includes playful zones like the “easy parks” to gently introduce the sensations of skiing. - Additional advantages:
- ESF ski school with experienced instructors.
- Special beginner passes at reduced prices.
- Warm atmosphere in a typical alpine village.
2. La Clusaz
Known for its friendliness, La Clusaz offers spaces specially designed for beginners.
- Why go there?
The resort offers secure learning zones with conveyor belts, ideal for those putting on skis for the first time. - Additional advantages:
- Children’s gardens to initiate the youngest.
- Group or private lessons with professionals.
- Proximity to Annecy, convenient for alternating skiing with sightseeing for those not skiing full-time.
3. Morzine – Les Gets
In the Portes du Soleil area, these two resorts are perfect for a first experience.
- Why choose Morzine or Les Gets?
Both villages offer wide, gentle slopes, ideal for gaining confidence. Modern lifts allow easy access to beginner zones. - Additional advantages:
- Zones reserved for beginners such as the Chavannes sector in Les Gets.
- Many renowned ski schools.
- Family atmosphere and services adapted for young children.
4. The Avoriaz domain
Still in the Portes du Soleil, Avoriaz is a pedestrian resort that makes movement easier for beginner skiers.
- Why choose Avoriaz?
Its beginner area, “Le Plateau,” is located at the center of the resort, with suitable slopes and a reassuring environment. - Additional advantages:
- “Ski-in, ski-out” accommodations.
- A lively village with après-ski activities (ice rink, aquatic area).
5. Praz de Lys Sommand
This family resort, ideal for skiers seeking calm and nature, is particularly suitable for beginners.
- Why go there?
There are many easy green and blue slopes (Praz de Lys sector), ideal for those who want to learn alpine skiing or progress in complete peace. - Additional advantages:
- The prices of passes remain affordable
- Warm welcome and authentic atmosphere.
Our tips for a successful first experience
- Book your lessons in advance: Ski schools in the mentioned resorts are very busy, especially in high season.
- Choose suitable equipment: Rental shops will advise you to choose the right gear for beginners.
- Don’t put pressure on yourself: Beginner resorts in Haute-Savoie are designed so that each progress is a victory.
- Take the opportunity to visit the department: For a beginner skier, spending a whole day on the slopes is not a good idea (fatigue, risk of overload…). Ski half-days and enjoy the rest of the day to discover the region:
Waiting for the snow…
You can discover some ski basics by watching this video…
Final word
With their idyllic setting and warm welcome, these Haute-Savoie resorts are ideal for ski initiation. Whether you are an adult or a child, you will find the perfect conditions to discover the magic of winter sports while enjoying the charms of the region. So, ready to race down your first slopes?
