Beginner's guide to skiing the Alps

The idea of strapping on a pair of skis and hurtling down a mountainside is - quite rightly - a daunting one. Nonetheless, millions of people do it every year, and there’s a reason for that; it’s a whole lot of fun. 

If you’re thinking of taking up skiing, the Alps offer quaint charm, plenty of options for relaxing apres ski and of course, some of the best runs in the world - it’s a great place to take to the slopes for the first time. 

You’re sure to have a few questions though - and we’ve tried to answer some of the most common ones:

When is the best time to ski?

There’s no hard and fast rule about when you’ll get the best conditions for skiing, but there are a few general guidelines that you can stick to. From January through to March is always when slopes are traditionally busiest, but often it’s possible to get great conditions all the way through until May, in higher altitude resorts, such as Tignes and Val D’Isere.

Avoid the peak times around national holidays and school holidays to find resorts at their least crowded and most affordable. 

What if I don’t like skiing?

The first day of a ski holiday is an inconvenient time to discover that it’s not the sport for you, but for all that we love skiing, we appreciate that there are a few people who just don’t - and that’s okay. 

Luckily in the Alps there are plenty of other activities to occupy your time, from sightseeing and sampling local delicacies to shopping and spa days. If you’re nervous about booking a ski trip without knowing if it’s for you, why not book a day on a dry slope close to home to give it a whirl before you commit? 

Will I need lots of gear?

You can spend a fortune on ski gear, but for your first outing you really only need goggles, thermals, gloves and socks. The rest you’ll be able to rent in-resort, and if you decide to take ski holidays regularly you can invest in some skis and boots of your own. 

Buying a ski chalet in the Alps

For many of the people taking their first trip to the Alps each year, skiing becomes not just a hobby but a passion. If you find yourself in the market for a ski chalet in the Alps, be sure to give us a ring - we have investment properties available throughout the Swiss and French Alps.