At The Oxford Ski Company, we understand that booking your first ski holiday can be an extremely daunting task and whilst battling with thoughts such as "It'll be too cold", "I'm afraid of heights" and "I'm rubbish at sport, so...", we want to explain exactly why this amazingly addictive sport that takes you across the world and creates ever-lasting memories can be perfect for you!
Here are a few tips to ensure your first experience is one of the best…
Selecting the resort is key! For your first holiday, the size of the ski area isn't important while you are learning as you're going to be spending most of the time on the nursery slopes and where the ski schools operate, so you need to decide, besides skiing - what else do you want to experience on your holiday?
- For the very best après ski and nightlife, St Anton is without doubt the liveliest ski resort to experience.
- For a perfect mountain escape, Zermatt is an idyllic, car-free town
- For instant piste-access and something for everyone, Val d'Isère is a fantastic option.
- For a short airport transfer and family friendly atmosphere, Morzine wins.
- Klosters is a traditional chocolate box retreat with untouched piste.
- For some of the best ski instructors we've experienced, Meribel.
Next up is the chalet. You need to remember that you'll be active all day and therefore in the evenings would you rather enjoy a film beside the log fire in your exclusive chalet, or socialise in a lively shared chalet or hotel?
We are able to tailor your requirements, but two fantastically opposing options are:
- If you are looking for complete relaxation, Chalet Baby Bear in Chamonix or Chalet Bear in Klosters would certainly be just the perfect choices.
- For a more sociable, shared chalet experience, Club Pierre in Meribel or Club Bellevarde in Val d'Isère will combine a lively atmosphere with impeccable service.
- Founder, Rupert Longsdon, says "You can never stop learning and this is particularly true when it comes to skiing. Always budget for a ski instructor or guide, you will get so much more out of your holiday". The worst mistake you can make, is allowing a loved one to teach you as this is when 75% of accidents occur. Our knowledgeable concierge team will be more than happy to organise the most suited tuition to tailor your needs. They know availability like the back of their hands and can discuss whether a private instructor or group lessons is going to be most beneficial to you. They know exactly how far in advance to book the lessons and the Chalet Specialists will be able to advise you on the chalets closest to the ski school meet points.
- The mountains are deceiving! Just because you are heading to a snowy mountain range, don't be fooled by the weather, particularly if you are travelling between February and April. The sun rays are even stronger at an altitude, so we highly recommend sun protection factor 30+ and you'll still head home looking like you've stepped out of the Maldives! Between December and February we would highly recommend taking a balaclava ski mask to keep your head extra warm!
- Chalet Specialist, Harriet Tetlow, advises "Always invest in a decent pair of gloves. They may seem pricey at the time, but it will be worth it because a poorly-insulated pair of gloves can simply ruin your day", whilst Hannah Warren says “Ski goggles are designed to suit the weather conditions. If it is poor visibility or winter months you will benefit from low-vis lenses which are orange or yellow, for the blue-bird days you’ll benefit from photochromic lenses.”
For more advice and booking your ultimate first-time ski holiday, contact our knowledgeable team today on +44 1993 899 420 or Enquire Now.
