Ski schools in Val d’Isère
Val d’Isère’s ski schools are listed below – from the huge and long-established ESF, to the ’boutique’ specialist outfits such as Mountain Masters and Alpine Experience, as well as several private individual instructors. We give contact details, class sizes and prices (mostly in euros).
Ski schools and instructors get booked early, particularly during school holidays. YOU SHOULD BOOK LESSONS FOR ANY BEGINNERS OR CHILDREN AS SOON AS YOU BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY.
We are happy to give advice, but the best way to organise suitable instruction is by calling or emailing the ski schools or instructors yourself. They all speak English. During the summer some may not answer the telephone or reply to emails straight away.
LARGE SKI SCHOOLS OFFERING GROUP LESSONS THROUGHOUT THE SEASON
(the number in brackets shows the approximate number of instructors in that ski school)
ESF (400)
ECOLE DU SKI FRANCAIS de VAL D’ISERE
Tel: + 33 479 06 02 34
www.esfvaldisere.com email: esf.valdisere@wanadoo.fr
Val d’Isère’s ESF was France’s first ski school, and with 400 instructors is still Val’s biggest. More and more young English-speaking instructors and very reasonable prices make it an increasingly good option. Many in the ESF booking office speak good English and they will help match you up to a good English-speaking instructor or the right class for your level. For juniors there are maximum 8 children for their ‘TOP 8’ price, or ‘unlimited but never more than 15’ for a lower ‘CLASSIQUE’ price (Classique lessons are always at La Daille) – details below. Adult group lessons are limited to 8 people. Off-piste, race-training, children’s garden, snowboard, cross-country, ski-biking, snowshoe excursions, etc., all available. English-only lessons available at half term. Also full-day competition classes for teens during school holidays. With the improved nursery slopes at the top of Solaise, the ESF offers the discounted beginners’ 6-day lift pass costing €220 for beginners who book 5 or 6 days of lessons with them (mornings, afternoons or full days). The pass can be used outside lessons too around the entire Val d’Isère and Tignes ski area – please ask them for details when booking your lessons.
Low season dates are 30 November-21 December 2024, 5 January-8 February, 9 March-5 April, and 20 April-4 May 2025. High season dates are 22 December 2024-4 January, 9 February-8 March and 6-19 April 2025.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Children’s group lessons
Ski & snowboard
Max 8 in a group
3-5 years
Lessons at the sweet Jardin des Neiges chalets (at the Rond Point or La Daille). Good for very robust children. Timid children can try a single lesson before committing
and
5-12 years
Beginner and Flocon Levels to 1st Star
Morning, 09.30-12.30, low €67, high €81
5 mornings, low €324, high €388
Afternoon, 14.00-17.00, low €64, high €77
5 afternoons, low €308, high €370
Day, low €112, high €134
5 days, low €537, high €644
CLASSIQUE Classes
5-12 years
Max 15 in a class, lessons start at La Daille only
Morning, 09.30-12.30, low €45, high €54
5 mornings, low €216, high €259
Afternoon, 14.00-17.00, low €42, high €51
5 afternoons, low €203, high €244
Day, low €74, high €89
5 days, low €356, high €427
Adults’ group lessons
Including Teens aged 13+
Ski & snwboard
Max 8 in a class
Morning, 09.30-12.30, low €67, high €81
5 mornings, low €324, high €388
Afternoon, 14.00-17.00, low €64, high €77
5 afternoons, low €308, high €370
Day, low €112, high €134
5 days, low €537, high €644
Off-piste group lessons
Max 6 people
For expert skiers/snowboarders
Morning, 09.00-13.00, low €92, high €110
3 mornings, low €265, high €318
6 mornings, low €480, high €576
Private lessons
1–5 people
Morning 3hrs, 09.30-12.30, low €275, high €315
Morning 4 hrs, 09.00-13-00, low €370, high €425
Lunchtime 1 hr, 13.00-14.00, low €59, high €68
Afternoon 3hrs, 14.00-17.00, low €240, high €275
Afternoon 4 hrs, 13.00-17.00, low €315, high €360
All day 7.5hrs, 09.30-17.00, low €480, high €550
6–8 people
Morning 3hrs, 09.30-12.30, low €360, high €415
Morning 4 hrs, 09.00-13-00, low €480, high €550
Afternoon 3hrs, 14.00-17.00, low €310, high €355
Afternoon 4 hrs, 13.00-17.00, low €410, high €470
All day 7.5hrs, 09.30-17.00, low €625, high €720
Snowshoe
Meet at the Val Village ESF office
Afternoon, 14.30-17.00, low €50, high €60
5 afternoons, low €242, high €290
You will need to hire snowshoes and poles and have waterproof boots plus a ski pass if you want to snowshoe at altitude
Oxygène (60)
OXYGENE
Tel: +33 479 41 99 58
www.oxygene.ski/val-d-isere-ski-school/ email: valdisere@oxygene.ski
Oxygène is renowned for teaching British children in the Alps and is now the second-largest ski school in Val d’Isère. Children’s group lessons begin from 3 years up to 12, with a maximum of 6 children per class. Lessons are run exclusively in English and run from Monday to Friday. Group lessons are also available for teenagers over 12 and adults, in ski and snowboard, beginners to experts. Also private lessons on-piste, snowboard, cross country, telemark, off-piste. To access the nursery slopes at the top of Solaise, Oxygène offer the discounted 6-day lift pass costing €215 for adults and children when you book a week of ski or snowboard beginner lessons – ask them for details when booking. (NB Free ski pass for children under 8 years.) Oxygène has its own ski rental shop with the latest equipment for children, adults and snowboarders. Chalet-fitting, and collection and/or delivery is available, and anyone taking lessons gets 20% off equipment-hire prices. The ski school desk is in their ski rental shop in the Galerie des Cimes. Clear website which also gives details of other activities such as e-mountain biking, paragliding, skidoo and adaptive skiing.
Low season dates are 8-14 December 2024 and 27 April-3 May 2025. Mid season dates are 15-21 December 2024, 12 January-8 February and 2-29 March 2025. High season dates are 22 December 2024-11 January, 9-15 February and 30 March-26 April 2025. Peak dates are 16 February-1 March 2025.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Children’s group lessons
Snowbears – beginners (3-4 years, max 3 per group)
5 mornings, Mon-Fri, 09.00-10.30 or 10.30-12.00
low €399, mid €455, high €479, peak €535
All levels from Brown Bear to Polar Bear (5-12 years, max 6 per group), Gold to Teen Pro-Rider, Race Academy and Teen Fun Camp (12+ years, max 6 per group)
5 mornings, Mon–Fri, 09.00–12.00
low €399, mid €455, high €479, peak €535
5 afternoons, Mon–Fri, 14.00–17.00
low n/a, mid €455, high €479, peak €535
5 full days, Mon-Fri, 09.00-12.00 & 14.00–17.00
low n/a, mid €649, high €689, peak €759
Children’s snowboard (age 5-12, max 8 per group)
Beginners, Mon & Tue, 14.00-17.00
low €149, mid €159, high €169, peak €185
All other levels
5 mornings or afternoons, Mon–Fri, 09.00–12.00 or 14.00-17.00
low €335, mid €349, high €379, peak €419
Supervised lunch club, (3-12 years) 12.00-14.00, 5 days €199
Kids’ club, (5-12 years) 14.00-17.00
5 afternoons, low €209, mid €219, high €235, peak €249
1 afternoon from €45
Adults’ group lessons (from 13 years, max 8 per group)
Beginners & Level 1
5 mornings, Mon–Fri, 09.00–12.00 plus Monday afternoon, 15.00–17.00
low €335, mid €349, high €379, peak €419
All other levels
5 mornings, Mon-Fri, 09.00–12.00
or 5 afternoons, Mon-Fri, 14.00–17.00
low €335, mid €349, high €379, peak €419
Steep & Deep off-piste
(max 6 per group)
For experienced skiers and snowboarders
5 mornings, 09.00-13.00
low €459, mid €495, high €505, peak €555
Snowboard (age 8+ max 8 per group)
Beginners, 2 afternoons, 14.00-17.00
low €149, mid €159, high €169, peak €185
All other levels
5 mornings or afternoons, Mon–Fri, 09.00–12.00 or 14.00-17.00
low €335, mid €349, high €379, peak €419
Adaptive ski lessons
1-to-1 instruction, ski-ski included
Lift pass and helmet required
3-hour morning, 09.00-12.00
low €375, mid €405, high €429, peak €469
4-hour morning, 09.00-13.00
low €459, mid €505, high €525, peak €579
2-hour afternoon, 12.00-14.00 or 15.00-17.00
low €229, mid €265, high €285, peak €295
3-hour afternoon, 12.00-15.00 or 14.00-17.00
low €339, mid €359, high €375, peak €415
Private lessons – ski, snowboard, telemark, ski-touring, cross-country
3-hour morning, 1-3 people, 09.00-12.00, low €305, mid €349, high €369, peak €415
4-hour morning, 1-3 people, 09.00-13.00, low €395, mid €449, high €475, peak €549
2-hour afternoon, 1-2 people, 12.00-14.00 or 15.00-17.00, low €175, mid €195, high €209, peak €239
3-hour afternoon, 1-2 people, 12.00-15.00 or 14.00-17.00, low €265, mid €295, high €315, peak €349
1 day, 1-5 people, low €625, mid €645, high €745, peak €839
Add €5 per extra person per hour, max 8 per group (max 6 for off-piste)
Private guiding off-piste
For intermediate to advanced skiers or snowboarders
4-hour morning, 1-3 people, 09.00-13.00, low €395, mid €449, high €475, peak €549
Add €5 per extra person per hour, max 6 per group
Evolution2 (37)
EVOLUTION 2
tel: +33 479 00 77 29
advance bookings: +33 7 60 82 10 12 (or email)
https://evolution2.com/en/val-disere
email: booking@evolution2.com
Excellent ski school. Small group sizes of maximum 8 skiers, or 6 in some classes. Week-long or shorter courses and clinics available. Children’s lessons start at 3 years. The wonderful Australian Nikki is available to guide you through your booking if you give her a call. Their instructors are mostly French, some British, and guests have recommended Valérie who is fantastic with children. Children receive a medal and certificate at the end of the week. Lessons start at 09.00 which avoids the main ‘rush-hour’, though children’s classes meet at the ski school rather than on the slopes. To access the improved nursery slopes at the top of Solaise, Evolution 2 offer the discounted beginners’ 6-day lift pass costing €220 for beginners who book a week of lessons with them (adults or children, mornings, afternoons or full days). The pass can be used outside lessons too around the entire Val d’Isère and Tignes ski area – please ask them for details when booking your lessons. They offer other activities including electric bikes, speedriding, snow mobile, ice climbing, paragliding, dog sledding and snowshoeing.
Low season dates are 7-14 December 2024, 4 January-8 February, 8-29 March and 19 April-3 May 2025. Mid season dates are 14-28 December 2024, 8-15 February, 1-8 March, 29 March-5 April and 12-19 April 2025. High season dates are 28 December-4 January, 15 February-1 March and 5-12 April 2025.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Children group lessons (Monday to Friday)
Yeti Club:
Panda, beginners aged 3-4 years
Yetison, beginners aged 4-12 years
Max 6 in a group
Hot drink and snack included
5 mornings, Mon-Fri, 09.00-12.00, low €385, mid €430, high €480
5 afternoons, Mon-Fri, 14.00-17.00, low €350, mid €390, high €440
Supervised lunch per day, 12.00-14.00, low/mid €42, high €48
Academy:
Petit Yeti, children from 6 years who can link snowplough turns
Yeti 1, 2, 3 & Super, 4 levels for children from 5-12 years
Junior Academy, good skiers from 12 years
Teen Extreme, advanced skiers from 14 years
Shred Academy, new teens group
Max 8 in a group
5 mornings, Mon-Fri, 09.00–12.00, low €365, mid €430, high €480
5 afternoons, 14.00–17.00, low €330, mid €380, high €410
Supervised lunch per day, 12.00-14.00, low/mid €42, high €48
Mountain Yeti, adventure groups, 5-12 years
Max 10 in a group
1 afternoon, Mon-Fri, 14.00–17.00, low -, mid €70, high €80
5 afternoons, low €295, mid €320, high €350
Racing Program, gates training, video feedback
Max 8 in a group
5 mornings, Mon-Fri, 09.00-12.30, low n/a, mid €479, high €499
Teenage skiers from beginner to intermediate age 14+ can join adult classes. Every effort is made to put teenagers together during school holidays.
Adult group ski lessons
Maximum 8 in a group
Learn 2 Turn, total beginners
Perfecting Parallels, improvers, three levels green, blue, red
Fine Skills, off piste, moguls, all terrain, advanced red to black
5 mornings, Mon-Fri, 09.00–12.00, low €340, mid €370, high €420
5 afternoons, Mon-Fri, 14.00–17.00, low n/a, mid n/a, high €390
3 afternoons ‘Mini’, Mon-Wed, low €290, mid €310, high €330
Snowboard group lessons (adults and children over 8 yrs)
Maximum 8 per group
Rookie, beginner
Improver, intermediate
Switch, advanced
5 mornings, Mon-Fri, 09.00–12.00, low €340, mid €370, high €410
5 afternoons, Mon-Fri, 14.00–17.00, low €310, mid €340, high €380
3 afternoons ‘Mini’, Mon-Wed, low €290, mid €310, high €330
Private lessons on-piste
Ski or snowboard, adults and children
1-2 people, per hour, low €80, mid €85, high €90
3-4 people, per hour, low €90, mid €95, high €105
5-6 people, per hour, low €95, mid €99, high €110
1-6 people, 09.00-12.00, low n/a, mid €320, high €350
1-6 people, 13.00-16.00, low n/a, mid €300, high €330
1-6 people, full day, 09.00-16.00, low €559, mid €579, high €599
Private off-piste guide
Tranceiver, probe and shovel provided
1-6 people, 3 hours, low €330, mid €350, high €380
1-6 people, 4 hours, low €400, mid €430, high €460
Also Espace Killy Tour, Tarentaise Tour – contact Evolution2 for details
SMALLER SKI SCHOOLS
The Development Centre (20)
THE DEVELOPMENT CENTRE
Tel: +33 615 55 31 56
www.tdcski.com/val_disere/ski_lessons_index email: valdisere@tdcski.com
5% discount for YSE guests by using discount code YSE245 when booking.
15 highly-respected British instructors charging competitive rates for high standards of tuition for skiers. They specialise in tailored private sessions geared entirely to you and your goals. Also small group clinics from green runs to bumps to off-piste. With a maximum of 6 people in a group you’ll receive individual coaching and specific feedback. Most clinics run for 3 consecutive half days, but can be flexible on request. They also run early-season clinics in the first half of December, end-of-season Spring ski clinics, heli-skiing days, off-piste adventure weeks and ski instructor training. Get in touch by phone or email (see above), or visit Anna in their office in Snowberry Streetside on the main high street. You can also book sessions directly on their website.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private ski lessons
Beginner to advanced, on- or off-piste, children and adults
3 hours, 09.00-12.00 or 13.00-16.00
Prices are per lesson, not per person
1–2 people €338
3–4 people €371
5–6 people €404
All day, 09.00-17.00, 1–6 people €676
Children and teenagers (3-6 skiers per group)
TDC Devils, 10-13 yrs, can already ski parallel on red runs
TDC Academy, 14-17 yrs, can ski parallel on black runs
On-piste, basic freestyle, jumps, bumps, variable terrain, racing, etc.
5 half days, Mon-Fri, 09.00-12.00 or 13.00-16.00, €536 per child
Adult group clinics (3–6 skiers)
Confidence: for strong green run skiers
Discovery: for strong blue run skiers
Development: for strong red run skiers
Development Plus: for strong red run/ok black run skiers
Challenges: for strong black run skiers, bumps and variable terrain
3 half days, 09.00-12.00 or 13.00-16.00, €338 per person
Off-piste clinics (3-6 skiers)
Introduction: for strong red run skiers and above
Adventure: for strong black run skiers and above
Safety equipment provided
3 half days, 09.00-12.00 or 13.00-16.00, €338 per person
Progression (18)
PROGRESSION
Tel: +33 621 93 93 80 (Val d’Isère December–May)
Tel: +44 20 8123 3001 (UK office all year)
www.progressionski.com email: enquiries@progressionski.com
The only small top-end ski school to offer adult group lessons all season. Also the smallest group-size for adults (maximum 4 people). Fully-qualified English-speaking instructors. Technical clinics for 2 or 3 mornings or afternoons – book early to tailor times and number of sessions to you. Booking is easy all year round using the UK phone number given above. Very clear website. Children get a goody-bag at the end of the week with badge, booklet, group photo and a DVD of your child skiing. Discounts for YSE children if the family has more than one child in Progression classes.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Children’s group lessons (5–12 years)
Minimum 4, maximum 8 in a group (max 6 in beginners)
Marmotte – beginner
Chamois – can ski green runs
Ibex – comfortable on blue runs
Wolf – can ski red runs
Golden Eagle – can ski black runs and may have ventured on some easy off-piste
5 mornings, Mon–Fri, 09.00–13.00, €529
Bolt-on full day option (not available for beginners)
The instructor collects the children from the morning lesson and takes them for some lunch, then further skiing until 17.00.
Cost of lunch not included so children must have some money to buy something to eat
Available Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, 13.00-17.00
Cost on top of the morning lessons already booked
1 afternoon €120
All 3 afternoons €300
Teen group lessons (13–16 years)
School holidays only
Minimum 4, maximum 8 in a group
Intermediate to advanced
5 mornings, Mon–Fri, 09.00–13.00, €529
Adult group lessons
Minimum 3, maximum 4 in a group
Levels 1-2, beginner to early intermediate
5 mornings, Mon-Fri, 09.00–12.00, €425
Clinics, Levels 3-5, intermediate to advanced
3 mornings, Mon-Wed, 09.00-12.00, €295
Snowboard
Beginner group lessons
Minimum 3, maximum 4 in a group
5 mornings, Mon-Fri, 09.00-12.00, €425
One-off beginner taster group
Minimum 3, maximum 6 in a group
Adults and children age 13+
Friday 13.30-16.30, €100
Snowpark – intermediate/advanced private lessons
3 hours €299
3.5 hours €349
4 hours €425
5.5 hours (Easter) €549
Full day, 6 hours, low season €599
Full day, 7 hours, Christmas/half term/Easter €665
Full day, 8 hours, February half term €760
Private lessons
Ski, snowboard, telemark on piste
Same price regardless of how many people in the group
2 hours €200
3 hours €299
3.5 hours €349
4 hours €415
5.5 hours, January & March only, €549
Full day, 6 hours, low season €599
Full day, 7 hours, mid/high season €665
Full day, 8 hours, February half term €760
Off-piste
Ski, snowboard, telemark – Airbag, transceiver, shovel and probe provided
Off-piste private lessons
Same price regardless of how many people in the group
3 hours €329
3.5 hours €379
4 hours €439
Full day, 6 hours, low season €630
Full day, 7 hours, Christmas/half term/Easter €699
Introduction to off-piste group clinic
Minimum 2, maximum 4 in a group
3 mornings, Mon-Wed, 09.00-13.00, €360
Prosneige (15)
PROSNEIGE
Tel: +33 479 01 00 12
www.prosneige.fr email: info@prosneige.fr
Already established in the 3 Valleys, well-organised ski school Prosneige opened a few years ago in Val d’Isère with a shop and office on the snow square. 15 permanent and fully-qualified instructors offer private and group classes in ski and snowboard for children and adults, with a maximum of 6 people per group. Children’s lessons from 4 years old in their Brown Bear group. Lunchtime childcare at La Source, near the shop, from 12.00-14.00. A ski pass is required – even for beginners to access the nursery slopes at the top of the Solaise bubble lift. There is a special beginner Val d’Isère-only ski pass available through the ski school for €220 (see Ski pass and discounts page). The Prosneige head office is in Albertville for year-round booking. Good customer service. Clear website.
Low season dates are 1-7 December 2024. Mid season dates are 8-21 December 2024, 5 January-8 February, 9 March-5 April and 27 April-3 May 2025. High season dates are 22-28 December 2024, 9-15 February, 2-8 March, 6-12 April and 20-26 April 2025. Peak dates are 29 December-4 January, 16 February-1 March and 13-19 April 2025.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Group lessons
Children and adults, ski and snowboard
Max 6 in a group
Different levels depending on ski ability/experience – see website for categories for children and adults.
5 mornings, Mon-Fri, 09.00-12.00, low €325, mid €349, high €379, peak €410
5 afternoons, Mon-Fri, 14.00-17.00, low €325, low/mid €39, high/peak €41
1 try-out session, am or pm as available, low/mid €70, high €80, peak €105
5 full days, low €479, mid €499, high €569, peak €593
5 adult midday beginner/intermediate confidence-builder, Mon-Fri, 12.00-14.00, low/mid n/a, high €200, peak €225
Children’s supervised lunch per day, low/mid €39, high/peak €41
Private lessons
Ski, snowboard, on- and off-piste, freestyle, etc.
Security equipment included for off-piste
Low season
Morning
2 hours, 1 person €166, 2-3 people €182, 4-10 people €195
3 hours, 1 person €249, 2-3 people €273, 4-10 people €293
Afternoon
2 hours, 1 person €145, 2-3 people €159, 4-10 people €171
3 hours, 1 person €219, 2-3 people €234, 4-10 people €248
4 hours, 1 person €319, 2-3 people €334, 4-10 people €376
Full day, 1 person €499, 2-3 people €519, 4-10 people €588
Mid season
Morning
2 hours, 1 person €179, 2-3 people €196, 4-10 people €211
3 hours, 1 person €249, 2-3 people €273, 4-10 people €293
4 hours, 1 person €339, 2-3 people €363, 4-10 people €399
Afternoon
2 hours, 1 person €159, 2-3 people €174, 4-10 people €187
3 hours, 1 person €225, 2-3 people €247, 4-10 people €265
4 hours, 1 person €330, 2-3 people €363, 4-10 people €389
Full day, 1 person €509, 2-3 people €524, 4-10 people €599
High season
Morning
3 hours, 1 person €294, 2-3 people €318, 4-10 people €346
4 hours, 1 person €392, 2-3 people €424, 4-10 people €462
Afternoon
2 hours, 1 person €182, 2-3 people €207, 4-10 people €214
3 hours, 1 person €269, 2-3 people €295, 4-10 people €317
Full day, 1 person €559, 2-3 people €579, 4-10 people €659
Peak season
Morning
3 hours, 1 person €309, 2-3 people €324, 4-10 people €364
4 hours, 1 person €412, 2-3 people €427, 4-10 people €486
Afternoon
2 hours, 1 person €191, 2-3 people €210, 4-10 people €255
3 hours, 1 person €279, 2-3 people €306, 4-10 people €329
Full day, 1 person €699, 2-3 people €714, 4-10 people €824
Mountain Masters (14)
MOUNTAIN MASTERS
Tel: +33 479 06 05 14
www.mountain-masters.com email: info@mountain-masters.com
7 British and 7 French instructors, including well-known British instructors Al, Dave, Mark, Phill, Rupert, Rupert and Tansy. Enthusiastic personal attention and great feedback from YSE guests. Very good for older children, slalom, bumps, powder and for anyone looking for a new approach, or less confident skiers on the verge of giving up. Their race groups for children and freeski camps for teenagers are a hugely popular addition and logical next step for good skiers wanting to move to the next level through training and new challenges. Mostly private lessons, though they will put adults’ on- and off-piste groups together if there’s enough demand from people of the same level. Must be booked in advance. No group classes for beginners. Children’s classes only during school holidays if enough demand. Ought to be the most expensive school but is possibly the cheapest! Video during lessons, watched in a mountain restaurant. Also snowboard, telemark and snowshoeing. Office in Killy Sports in the centre of Val d’Isère, where a big effort is made to match each group with just the right instructor. Also heli-skiing, ski touring, off-piste courses – ask Mountain Masters for details and prices.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Children group lessons
Mini Masters and MM Ski Academy
5–17 years
Minimum 4, maximum 6 per group
During school holidays
6 levels from snowplough to gold+ (technique, slalom, park)
and Ski Beyond for advanced teenagers
5 mornings, 09.00–12.45, €525
Option Race
5–17 years
Minimum 4, maximum 8 per group
5 mornings, 09.00–12.45, €585
Freeski Camps
Teens 14 years+
Minimum 3, maximum 6 per group
Discover new challenges such as snowboarding, telemark, touring
5 full days, 09.00–16.45, €900 (without lunch), €1000 (lunch included)
Private lessons
Max 6 in a group
Ski, snowboard, telemark
Prices are per group, not per person
Morning 09.00–12.45, €405
Afternoon 13.45–16.45, €300
All day 09.00–16.45 including a pit stop for lunch, €650
The Mountain Ski Academy (11)
THE MOUNTAIN SKI ACADEMY
Tel: +33 750 65 74 78
www.tmskiacademy.com email: contact@tmskiacademy.com
The first Montessori ski school in the world, offering special pedagogy in ski, snowboard, cross country and biathlon. The emphasis is on play-based learning without competition, and tuition is adapted to each participant to fit his or her own pace and pesonality. 11 fully-qualified English-speaking instructors, small group size with maximum 4 in a class (8 in biathlon). Group or private lessons, freestyle, off-piste, heli-skiing. All ages from 4 years to adult, beginner to expert. Children can be collected from their chalet, or meet at the foot of the Olympique cable car at the centre of Val d’Isère’s lifts and slopes.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Group ski or snowboard lessons
Beginner to expert, age 4 years+
Also Freestyle, jumps, snowpark, age 12 years+
Max. 4 people in a group
5 days, 2 hours per day, €300 per person
5 days, 4 hours per day, €590 per person
Private ski or snowboard lessons
Beginner to expert, age 4 years+
Also Freestyle, jumps, snowpark, age 12 years+
Max. 4 people in a group
1-2 people, 2 hours, from €230
1-2 people, half day, from €460
1-2 people, full day, from €690
Add €10 per additional person
Off-piste private lessons
For experienced skiers/snowboarders
1-2 people, , half day, from €460
1-2 people, , full day, from €690
Add €10 per additional person
Cross country lessons
Beginner to expert, age 5 years+
Max. 4 people in a group
2 people, 1 hour, €85
4 people, 1 hour, €105
6 people, 1 hour, €125
Equipment hire €10 per person
Biathlon private lessons
Beginner to expert, age 9 years+
Max. 8 people in a group
2 people, 2 hours, €190
4 people, 2 hours, €350
6 people, 2 hours, €510
Equipment hire €10 per person
British Alpine Ski School - BASS (9)
BRITISH ALPINE SKI SCHOOL – BASS
Tel: +47 47 38 71 64 (pre-season)
+33 619 77 85 57 (December – May)
www.britishalpine.com/val-d-isere-ski-school email: info@bass-skischools.com
A team of British instructors giving expert coaching to YSE guests for 25 years. Quality private tuition for skiing. Group clinics for ski and snowboard. Children’s group lessons from 7 years old during school holidays and sometimes available outside school holidays on request. BASS recommend younger children are taught 1-to-1 to give maximum confidence. Clear description of the ability levels on the website. Very good feedback from YSE guests. 10% discount to YSE guests for private ski lessons outside school holidays.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private lessons
3 hours, 09.00-12.00 or 13.00-16.00
1-2 people, €345
3-6 people, add €5 per extra person per hour
Full day with a break for lunch
1-4 people, €690
2-hour sessions from €245
Enquire via their website for specific requirements
Children’s classes
From 7 years (during school holidays)
All classes run Mon-Fri, 09.00-12.00
Blue zone – getting parallel
Red zone – more skills
Black zone – all mountain
(max 8 in a group)
5 x 3-hour lessons, €465 including medal and diploma
Under 7s
Mini-beginners
1-to-1 private tuition only, 2-hours €245
Adult classes
Max 3 per group
Daily ski and snowboard clinics
5 levels
1. Beginner
2. Confidence
3. Intermediate
4. More skills
5. Performance
3-hour ski clinics, starting at 09.00, 09.30 or 13.00
Book however many days you want, with the start-time you want
€210 per person per clinic
Private off-piste guiding
3 hours, 1-2 people, €345
Add €115 per hour for each additional person/hour
Safety equipment to rent from €25 per day (compulsory)
Enquire via their website for full days or larger groups
Montana (5-10)
MONTANA
Tel: +33 614 18 87 87
www.with-montana.com email: ski@with-montana.com
Ski school (and bespoke real estate office) under the direction of Vincent Robert who has instructed on- and off-piste in Val d’Isère for 25+ years, along with his team of fully-qualified instructors. All speak English. Each instructor has his/her specialisation: on-piste technique, snowboard, teaching children, off-piste, etc. Very flexible for dealing with individual requests from groups and families.
High season dates are New Year and half terms weeks.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private lessons
Morning, 09.00–13.00, €420 (high season €490)
Full day, €550 (high season €650)
Summit (4)
SUMMIT
Tel: +33 660 11 76 49
www.summit-ski-gb.com email: summit.ski.val@gmail.com
A small team of enthusiastic British-speaking instructors, offering a personalised and memorable experience in the mountains, whether you want adventure, something new or just a great day with good company and a nice lunch! Private lessons on and off piste, ski-touring, heli-ski. Their office is in the Hors Limites ski hire shop on the road from the village centre up to Dick’s Tea Bar.
Standard rates apply except during Peak weeks: 28 December 2024-4 January, 17-21 February and 7-12 April 2025. Check the Summit website for occasional discounts in early December, early January, early March and late April 2025.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private lessons
Same price regardless of the number of people
Standard
Half day €400
Full day €700
Peak
Half day €450
Full day €800
Heli-ski
Prices are per person in groups of 4+
1 drop €350
2 drops €650
Elevation (4)
ELEVATION
Tel: +33 613 95 38 90
UK Tel: +44 7949 178 652
www.elevationskischool.com email: info@elevationskischool.com
Experienced British Val d’Isère instructor Simon McCombe’s new outfit, Elevation Ski School, offers private lessons for adults and children, on and off piste. The small team of instructors are highly rated for their patient, adaptable, supportive, and friendly teaching styles, and have brilliant communication skills, either being fluent or native English speakers. They have spent multiple seasons guiding and teaching in Val d’Isère, making them experts in finding the best snow and most suitable terrain for your lesson. This ensures the fastest learning and most enjoyable experience on the slopes. There is no extra charge for additional friends or family joining private lessons as sessions are charged at a single flat-rate price, whether you are an individual or a group. However, they recommend no more than 6 in a group to make sure everyone gets the most out of the session. As a small school they are committed to providing the highest levels of personal customer service and attention to detail.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private lessons only
Groups of 1-6 people (recommended maximum)
Morning, 09.00-12.45, €405 per group
Afternoon, 13.45-16.45, €300 per group
Full day, 09.00-16.45, €650 per group
OFF-PISTE SPECIALISTS
Alpine Experience (9)
ALPINE EXPERIENCE
Tel: +33 479 06 28 81
Until Dec UK Tel: +44 1483 892 135
www.alpineexperience.com email: info@alpineexperience.com
Small school specialising in off-piste, with old favourites Wayne, Chris, Henry, Andreas and Thomas. Constructive, careful and fun. Hire your own private off-piste guide, or individuals can join off-piste groups of similar experience and ability. There are groups for all levels including introduction, as well as heli-skiing and inter-resort trips. Day trips on request. Also on-piste private ski lessons, and private snowboarding lessons available with Thomas. 30% deposit in advance for private bookings. Minimum 48 hours cancellation.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Off-piste groups
Max 6 skiers
Morning, 08.45-13.00, €80 per person
5 consecutive mornings, €375 per person (and €75 per morning thereafter)
Private tuition
For 1-2 skiers
Morning, 08.45-13.00, €390
Afternoon, 14.00-16.30, €215
Full day, €530
Add €20 for each additional skier
Bureau des Guides / Mountain Guide Association (12)
BUREAU DES GUIDES / MOUNTAIN GUIDES ASSOCIATION
Tel: Pierre Liotard +33 681 71 59 54
www.guides-montagne-valdisere.com
email: pierlio@aol.com
Twelve top mountain guides/ski instructors offering off-piste, ski touring, heliski, snowshoe, ice climbing and winter mountaineering. Contact them for prices. Office in the Mountain Proshop in the Galerie des Cimes. In the summer they offer mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking, via ferrata and canyoning, with trips all over the world.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private off-piste (max 6 people)
Tour du Charvet, Cugnaï, Col Pers, Grands Vallons, Pays Désert, etc.
Adults, and children from 14 years
Morning 09.00-13.00
1-2 people, from €400
3-4 people, from €450
5-6 people, from €500
Afternoon 14.00-17.00
1-6 people, from €400
Full day
1-2 people, from €550
3-4 people, from €600
5-6 people, from €650
iSki (5)
iSKI
Tel: +33 646 18 64 13
website: www.iski-val.com email: info@iski-val.com
A close-knit team of experienced instructors and guides who set up iSki in 2012 to ‘rekindle the club atmosphere’ in their ski school, with the emphasis on shared experience and conviviality. On- and off-piste private lessons and guides, heli-ski and ski-touring. All instructors speak English. Book via their easy-to-use website.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private instructor/mountain guide
Max 6 in a group
Ski or snowboard, on-piste or off-piste
Morning, 09.00-13.00, €380 per group
Morning, 09.00-12.00 (on-piste only), €290 per group
Afternoon, 14.00-17.00, €250 per group
Full day, €530 per group
Heli-ski
One drop, €380 per person in a group of 4
Contact iSki for further options
Tétra Off-piste (9)
TETRA
Tel: +33 631 49 92 75
www.tetraski.com
Hard-core off-piste ski school. Private lessons including on-piste tuition for ski, snowboard tuition from beginner to off-piste, visits to other resorts, touring trips of one or several days, heli-skiing. Unfussy website with clear information.
Low season dates are all weeks except mid season: 5 January-14 February and 2 March-19 April 2025, and high season: 21 December 2024-4 January and 15 February-1 March 2025.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private tuition off-piste
Per instructor
Morning, 09.00-13.00, low €450, mid €48o, high €500
Afternoon, 14.00-17.00, low €340, mid €36o, high €400
Full day, low €640, mid €68o, high €700
Private tuition on-piste (ski and snowboard)
Per instructor
Morning, 09.00-13.00, low €410, mid €43o, high €450
Afternoon, 14.00-17.00, low €300, mid €32o, high €350
Full day, low €600, mid €64o, high €670
Snocool
SNOCOOL
Tel: +33 479 24 30 94
www.snocool.com email: info@snocool.com
A young and dynamic team of experienced instructors and guides, passionate about the mountains and snow-sports. Based in Val d’Isère since 1998 and specialising in off-piste guiding, heliski, freestyle coaching and ice-climbing. They also offer on-piste private lessons, and on-piste guiding around the Val d’Isère and Tignes ski area. Good English. Can arrange meeting points nearer your accommodation or vary guiding times to suit you, on request.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private lessons
For children and adults, max 6 people
Half hour, for 3 year-olds, 1-to-1, €45
2 hours, 1 person €160 + €20 per extra person
3 hours, 1 person €240 + €30 per extra person
Morning, 09.00-13.00, 1–2 people €340, 3-6 people €380
Afternoon, 13.00-17.00, 1–2 people €320, 3-6 people €340
Full day, 09.30-17.00, 1–2 people €550, 3–6 people €600
INSTRUCTORS
Tansy Bjørklund (Mountain Masters)
MOUNTAIN MASTERS
Tel/fax: +33 479 06 05 14
www.mountain-masters.com email: info@mountain-masters.com
Private instructor Tansy Bjørklund works for the boutique ski school Mountain Masters. Enthusiastic personal attention and great feedback from YSE guests. Very good for older children, slalom, bumps, powder and for anyone looking for a new approach, or less confident skiers on the verge of giving up. Expensive but worth it and must be booked in advance. Office in Killy Sports in the centre of Val d’Isère.
2024-25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private lessons
Max 6 in a group
Morning 09.00–12.45
1-6 people, €405
Afternoon 13.45–16.45
1–6 people, €300
All day 09.00–16.45, includes a lunch stop
1–6 people, €650
Elaine Bunyan (children and adults, ESF rates)
ELAINE BUNYAN
Tel: +33 06 22 99 42 74
https://m.facebook.com/ElainesEliteCoaching? email: elaine.bunyan@wanadoo.fr
Elaine is a fully internationally qualified ski coach/instructor, and a Scot who has lived in France for 20 years and speaks fluent French. She teaches all levels with patience and knowledge of the mountains where she also bikes and Nordic walks in the summer. Her ethos is that skiing involves physical, psychological, tactical and technical skills, and she is able to find which mix of these skills you need to improve your skiing. Lessons for children and adults. Prices vary depending on low/mid/high season.
Low season dates are 30 November-21 December 2024, 5 January-8 February, 9 March-5 April, and 20 April-4 May 2025. High season dates are 22 December 2024-4 January, 9 February-8 March and 6-19 April 2025.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private tuition
1-5 people
Morning, 09.30–12.30, prices on request
Morning, 09.30–13.30, prices on request
Afternoon, 13.00–16.00, prices on request
Full day, 09.30-17.00, prices on request
Richard Harrison / Ski Dreams
RICHARD HARRISON
Tel: +33 6 11 42 42 89
www.skidreams.eu
email: info@skidreams.eu
Richard holds the top French and British ski teaching qualifications, and is a former BASI trainer, examiner, FIS racer and coach. He’s taught in some of the best ski schools around the world and has lived in Val d’Isère for 30 years. Friendly, enthusiastic and will adapt to and inspire skiers of all levels developing their technical skills and building confidence while sharing his infectious passion for skiing and the whole mountain experience. Patient with nervous beginners, excellent with kids and passionate for the extensive off-piste in and around the area. Instant video analysis and photos of your lesson.
Prices indicated are all mid season prices. Add 10% for high season (Christmas, New Year, half term and Easter holidays), and subtract 10% for low season.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private lessons and guiding
On-piste
Max 6 per group
Morning 09.00-13.00
1 person €360
2-3 people, add €20
4-6 people, add €40
Short morning 09.00-12.00 (low season only)
1 person €280
2-3 people, add €20
4-6 people, add €40
Afternoon 13.45-16.45
1 person €260
2-3 people, add €20
4-6 people, add €40
Short afternoon 13.45-15.45
1 person €190
2-3 people, add €20
4-6 people, add €40
Full day 09.00-16.45 (includes a pit stop for lunch)
1 person €580
2-3 people, add €20
4-6 people, add €40
Off-piste
Introduction, advanced, expert, freeride
Max 6 per group
Transceivers, shovels, probes & rucksacks provided
Morning 09:00-13:00
1 person €370
2-3 people, add €20
4-6 people, add €40
Short morning 09.00-12.00 (low season only)
1 person €290
2-3 people, add €20
4-6 people, add €40
Afternoon 13.45-16.45
1 person €270
2-3 people, add €20
4-6 people, add €40
Short afternoon 13.45-15.45
1 person €200
2-3 people, add €20
4-6 people, add €40
Full day 09.00-16.45 (includes a pit stop for lunch)
1 person €600
2-3 people, add €20
4-6 people, add €40
Michelle Le Bel
MICHELLE LE BEL
Tel: +33 06 08 73 56 31
www.valdisere-ski.com email: michelle@valdisere-ski.com
Michelle is a qualified instructor and former racer who has lived and taught skiing in Val d’Isère for many years. She specialises in private lessons for children from the age of 3. Lessons are geared to the child’s level of skiing, confidence and strength. Up to 5 children per lesson, she will even take children of different abilities and organise the lesson accordingly. She will meet your child at your chalet if requested. Michelle also teaches adults, with the emphasis on discovery and enjoyment. Informative website.
Low season dates are 30 November-21 December 2024, 5 January-8 February, 9 March-5 April, and 20 April-4 May 2025. High season dates are 22 December 2024-4 January, 9 February-8 March and 6-19 April 2025.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private lessons
Morning 3hrs, 09.30-12.30, low €275, high €315
Morning 4 hrs, 09.00-13-00, low €370, high €425
Afternoon 3hrs, 14.00-17.00, low €240, high €275
Afternoon 4 hrs, 13.00-17.00, low €315, high €360
All day 7.5hrs, 09.30-17.00, low €480, high €550
Yann Le Bozec (for children - and adults too!)
YANN LE BOZEC
Tel: +33 664 29 33 44
www.yannvaldisere.com email: infoyann@yannvaldisere.com
Independent instructor who is simply brilliant with children and taught our MD Fiona Easdale’s children. Private lessons only. Also teaches adults ski and snowboard on- and off-piste, ski touring and snowshoe excursions. High season weeks are Christmas, New Year, half term and Easter school holidays.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private lessons
For 1-5 people (small supplement for more than 5 people)
Morning, 09.00–13.00, low season €350, high €425
One hour at lunchtime, 13.00-14.00, low €90, high €100
Afternoon, 14.00–17.00, low €200, high €300
Full day, 09.00-17.00, low €450, €550
Pierre Liotard (off-piste)
PIERRE LIOTARD
Tel: +33 681 71 59 54
email: pierlio@aol.com
Excellent and hugely experienced mountain guide and instructor, specialising in off-piste. A member of the Bureau des Guides, with a range of international instructing qualifications, he has skied and mountaineered all over the world. Off-piste, ski touring (day or multi-day trips), heli-skiing, glacier skiing, ice climbing. You don’t have to be an expert to step off the beaten tracks: Pierre will take solo skiers or groups of families and/or friends, expert or amateur, and build confidence and share his knowledge of the mountains.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private tuition (max 6 people)
Adults, and children from 14 years
Morning 09.00-13.00
1-2 people, from €400
3-4 people, from €450
5-6 people, from €500
Afternoon 14.00-17.00
1-6 people, from €400
Full day
1-2 people, from €550
3-4 people, from €600
5-6 people, from €650
Lolo McCallum (for children and adults, ESF rates)
LOLO (LAURENCE) FLECHET-McCALLUM
Tel: +33 686 96 06 56
email: lolomccallum@orange.fr
Lolo is a native of Val d’Isère who has taught skiing since 1989, offering private and group lessons for children (from 3 years) and adults. She is a qualified American (PSIA) and French ski instructor. She’s also married to an Englishman so has the advantage of perfect English combined with a profound knowledge of the area. Lessons are fun, informative and tailored to each group or individual. Affiliated to the ESF, prices are the same whether booked directly with Lolo or via the ESF office.
Low season dates are 30 November-21 December 2024, 5 January-8 February, 9 March-5 April, and 20 April-4 May 2025. High season dates are 22 December 2024-4 January, 9 February-8 March and 6-19 April 2025.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private tuition
1–5 people
Morning 3hrs, 09.30-12.30, low €275, high €315
Morning 4 hrs, 09.00-13-00, low €370, high €425
Lunchtime 1 hr, 13.00-14.00, low €59, high €68
Afternoon 3hrs, 14.00-17.00, low €240, high €275
Afternoon 4 hrs, 13.00-17.00, low €315, high €360
All day 7.5hrs, 09.30-17.00, low €480, high €550
Valérie Pesas
Tel: + 33 667 15 52 40
www.skivaldisere4you.com email: valeriepesas@orange.fr
After many years in charge of children’s instruction at Evolution 2, Valérie can now be booked directly for private lessons for adults as well as children. Often described as the best kids’ instructor in Val d’Isère – she is certainly the most experienced – she is adored by her pupils, while not putting up with any nonsense! Speaks English.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Private tuition
1-6 people
1 hour, from €80 to €90
Morning, 09.00-12.00, from €295 to €345
Morning, 09.00-13.00, from €370 to €420
Afternoon, 14.00-17.00, from €250 to €300
Full day, 7 hours, €530 to €580
Steph Wiehe (Pro-snowboarding)
PRO-SNOWBOARDING
Tel: +33 632 28 58 03
UK (out of season): +44 7711 341 134
www.pro-snowboarding.co.uk email: enquiries@pro-snowboarding.co.uk
A team of three fully-qualified and experienced British snowboard instructors whose aim is to deliver the best snowboard tuition available. Group and private lessons for all abilities on- and off-piste from absolute beginners to advanced. They are small enough to be able to tailor lessons to suit the learner, so private lessons are very flexible.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Group lessons
Minimum 3, max 6 people
3 hours per day for 5 days, €400
Private lessons, on- or off-piste
For up to 4 people
2 hours, €200
3 hours, €270
Full day, €550
SNOWBOARDING
Pro-snowboarding (3)
PRO-SNOWBOARDING
Tel: +33 632 28 58 03
UK (out of season): +44 7711 341 134
www.pro-snowboarding.co.uk email: enquiries@pro-snowboarding.co.uk
A team of three fully-qualified and experienced British snowboard instructors whose aim is to deliver the best snowboard tuition available. Group and private lessons for all abilities on- and off-piste from absolute beginners to advanced. They are small enough to be able to tailor lessons to suit the learner, so private lessons are very flexible.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Group lessons
Minimum 3, max 6 people
3 hours per day for 5 days, €400
Private lessons, on- or off-piste
For up to 4 people
2 hours, €200
3 hours, €270
Full day, €550
RACE TRAINING
Stages Mattis (19)
STAGES MATTIS
Tel: +33 479 06 00 72
www.stages-mattis.com email: info@stages-mattis.com
One of the oldest families in Val d’Isère, the Mattis clan has run hotels and businesses including the Mattis ski hire shop since Val d’Isère started as a ski resort. Stages Mattis, formerly known as Val Gliss, has operated for more than 45 years and concentrates on the spirit of competition and fun in skiing, always respecting the mountain. No adult courses available this year.
Low season weeks are 3-7 March and 21 April-2 May 2025. High season weeks are 23 December 2024-3 January, 17 -28 February and 7-18 April 2025. Peak week is 10-14 February 2025.
2024–25 DETAILS AND PRICES
Children’s courses (maximum 8 in a group)
Snowflake to Bronze, Silver, Gold, Competition, and snowboard
During French and British school holidays
5 mornings, Mon-Fri, 09.00-12.00, low €385, high €425, peak €489
5 afternoons, 13.45-16.30, low €320, high €350, peak €350
5 full days, low €560, high €599, peak €599