Beginner and Nursery Slopes

Many associate Chamonix with James Bond and Olympic racers not nervous first-timers. But probably the biggest secret in Chamonix's vast expanse of skiing is that it has great learner areas.

Read on as we describe the valley’s excellent beginners’ facilities or visit the ski school section. The first thing to remember as a novice is that every skier and snowboarder, without exception, was once a beginner too!

Les Chosalets

Who would have thought that hidden in the trees at the base of one of the best-known advanced ski areas in the world, Grand Montets, is a little haven for complete beginners! Les Chosalets has two drag lifts and an open Green run area. 

Le Savoy

The Savoy slope is situated within walking distance of town. It has two drag lifts, the larger of which connects to the major ski area of Brevent. There is also a free magic carpet lift for those who have just graduated from walking up the hill. The snack bar is known to do a good hotdog and fries and there is a great toboganning area.

Les Planards

Les Planards is the other beginner area in town. It boasts a chair lift and two drag lifts and offers the biggest variety for a mixed group of learners. It has Green, Blue and Red runs and a handy restaurant. Ideal for big groups with different skill and energy levels. The summer and winter luge is here too whch is great fun.

La Vormaine

At the foot of the spectacular Le Tour ski area is the beginner area of La Vormaine and good fun it is too. Three drag lifts and a great big open area to play in with easily the best view from any beginner area in the world. The spectacular La Tour glacier above and the whole Chamonix valley with Mont Blanc opening out below are a feast for your eyes.