First time Skier or Snowboarder?

If you're a first-time beginner skier or snowboarder planning to visit Morzine, here are some tips and advice to make your experience enjoyable and safe. Don't be nervous.... Enjoy the RIDE. 🏂

Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the experience of learning to ski or snowboard. Embrace the learning process, appreciate the beautiful surroundings, and celebrate your progress along the way.

Remember, learning to ski or snowboard takes time and practice, so be patient with yourself. With proper instruction, practice, and a positive attitude, you'll be gliding down the slopes with confidence in no time!

Costs

Prices for ski hire, lessons, and lift passes can vary depending on the time of year in Morzine Avoriaz, and the specific packages or discounts available. 

Typically, the cost of ski hire can range from around €20 to €50 per day for basic equipment. Advanced or specialized equipment may cost more. Ski lessons can vary depending on the duration, group size, and instructor expertise, but you can expect to pay approximately €150 to €300 for a week of group lessons. Private lessons will generally be more expensive.

Lift pass prices can also vary based on the ski area and the duration of your stay. In Morzine, you can purchase a Portes du Soleil lift pass, which provides access to a vast ski area covering multiple resorts. Prices for a 6-day Portes du Soleil lift pass can range from around €250 to €350.

Take Ski or Snowboard Lessons

It's highly recommended to book ski or Snowboard lessons with a qualified instructor, especially if you're a beginner. For goodness sake don't wing it!

They will teach you the basics of skiing or snowboarding, including proper techniques, safety measures, and how to navigate the slopes. Group lessons are a good option for beginners as they allow you to learn alongside others at a similar skill level.

In Morzine, there are several reputable ski and snowboard lesson providers that offer quality instruction for skiers of all levels.

You can see all the ski and snowboard schools we recommend here on our Winter Practical Information Page - Ski & Snowboard Schools.

Here are some of the better known ski & snowboard lesson providers in Morzine for beginners:

• ESF Morzine (École du Ski Français): ESF is the largest ski school in Morzine and offers a wide range of lessons for skiers of all ages and abilities. They have a team of experienced instructors who provide group lessons, private lessons, and specialized courses like off-piste skiing and freestyle.

• New Generation Ski & Snowboard School: New Generation is a well-known ski school with highly qualified and friendly instructors. They offer group lessons, private lessons, and clinics for various skill levels. They focus on small group sizes to ensure personalized attention and effective learning.

• BASS Morzine: British Alpine Ski School (BASS) has a strong reputation for high-quality ski instruction in Morzine. They have a team of fully qualified British instructors who provide private lessons and small group lessons. BASS focuses on individualized coaching to help skiers improve their technique and confidence.

• Avoriaz Alpine Ski School: Located in the nearby resort of Avoriaz, Avoriaz Alpine Ski School offers excellent ski lessons for all ages and levels. They have a team of certified instructors who provide group lessons, private lessons, and specialized clinics. Avoriaz is easily accessible from Morzine, and many skiers choose to take lessons there.

• The Snow School: The Snow School is a well-established ski school in Morzine, known for its friendly and professional instructors. They offer group lessons, private lessons, and children's lessons. The Snow School also offers specialized lessons such as heli-skiing and ski touring.

• Mint Snowboarding: Mint Snowboarding is a highly regarded snowboard school that operates in Morzine and the surrounding areas. They offer group lessons, private lessons, and freestyle coaching sessions. Mint Snowboarding has a team of qualified instructors who are passionate about helping riders progress and enjoy their time on the slopes.

• Real Snowboarding: Real Snowboarding is a snowboard school based in Morzine that provides group lessons, private lessons, and coaching for all abilities. They have a team of dedicated snowboard instructors who emphasize a fun and relaxed approach to learning while focusing on technical progression.

• Gypsy Snowboarding : Gypsy focus on you and what you want to work on with your snowboarding. Whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned pro, they've got the lesson options for you, not to mention the best instructors in town. 

It's important to note that the availability, pricing, and specific offerings of each ski school may vary. It's advisable to check their websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information and to book your lessons in advance to secure your preferred time and instructor.

Choosing the right ski area within the Portes Du Soleil

Morzine is part of the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, which offers a variety of slopes suitable for all levels. As a beginner, start with the beginner-friendly areas and slopes to build your confidence gradually. The Pleney area is a popular choice for beginners in Morzine and so are the beginner slopes under the Super Morzine Telecabine in the Avoriaz sector. Both easy to access from Morzine village centre.

There is a fantastic interactive ski map available on the Portes Du Soleil Website which helps you plan your day on the slopes!

Rental equipment & Dressing Appropriately

Instead of purchasing ski equipment, consider renting it from a reputable ski shop in Morzine. Renting allows you to try different gear and ensure you have the right fit and size. Make sure to rent boots, skis, and poles that are appropriate for beginners. We highly recommend the following suppliers: Ski & Snowboard Hire in Morzine

Dressing in layers is key for skiing. Wear a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof and insulated outer layer. Don't forget to wear thermal socks, gloves, a hat or helmet, and goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and snow glare.

Be aware of the weather and avalanche conditions: Check the weather forecast and avalanche conditions before heading out. Follow the guidance of local authorities and ski resort staff regarding any closures or safety precautions due to adverse conditions.  We recommend France Meteo as this tends to be the most accurate. Click Here for a direct link to the weather page for Morzine Avoriaz Slopes.

Respect the mountain safety rules: Familiarize yourself with the mountain safety rules and obey them at all times. These rules typically include respecting the right of way, skiing within your ability level, and being aware of other skiers around you.  See more about the Piste Code here: Piste X Code for Morzine Avoriaz

Take breaks and rest: Skiing can be physically demanding, especially for beginners. Take regular breaks to rest, rehydrate, and avoid pushing yourself too hard. Pace yourself and listen to your body and enjoy the mountain restaurants. We list a few of our favourite mountain restaurants here.

Enjoy the Après-Ski

After a day on the slopes, Morzine offers a lively après-ski scene with plenty of bars, restaurants, and activities to enjoy. Take some time to relax, socialize, and celebrate your skiing achievements. 

Morzine offers a vibrant après-ski scene with a variety of bars and venues where you can relax, socialize, and enjoy some post-skiing entertainment. Here are some popular après-ski bars in Morzine:

1. Le Tremplin: Located at the foot of the Pleney slopes, Le Tremplin is a lively bar with a large terrace and a great atmosphere. They often have live music and DJs, making it a popular spot for après-ski drinks and dancing.

2. Le Tibetan Café: Known for its laid-back vibe and eclectic decor, Le Tibetan Café is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It offers a relaxed atmosphere, live music, and a cozy fireplace to warm up after a day on the slopes.

3. Dixie Bar: Dixie Bar is a well-established après-ski spot in Morzine, known for its friendly staff and lively atmosphere. They often have live music and theme nights, creating a fun and energetic ambiance.

4. La Folie Douce: While not located directly in Morzine, La Folie Douce is a popular après-ski venue situated at the top of the Prodains Express lift in Avoriaz. It's a unique experience with live music, DJs, dancers, and an outdoor terrace with stunning panoramic views.

5. Cavern Bar: Cavern Bar is a cozy underground bar that attracts a mix of locals and tourists. It has a rustic, chalet-style interior and a relaxed atmosphere. They often have live music and open mic nights, providing a laid-back setting for après-ski drinks.

6. Bec Jaune Brewery: If you're a craft beer enthusiast, Bec Jaune Brewery is a must-visit spot. They brew their own beer on-site and have a taproom where you can sample their creations. It's a great place to unwind and try some unique and flavorful beers.

Remember that the popularity and offerings of bars can vary from season to season, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information, opening hours, and events before your visit. Additionally, be sure to drink responsibly and arrange safe transportation back to your accommodation if needed.

Have fun and be safe

Finally, remember that skiing is meant to be enjoyable. Embrace the learning process, have fun on the slopes, and prioritize your safety at all times.

By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared to have a fantastic first skiing experience in Morzine. Enjoy your time on the slopes and happy shredding!