First-time skier: choosing the right vacation

Equipment, lessons, and a choice of slopes: how to make the most of your first ski vacation

Planning your first ski vacation? Ski Pro Shop® experts help you choose your equipment and instructors teach you how to ski the safe way during your all-inclusive vacation. From the Alps to the mountains of Asia, with Club Med you're on the right track.

Where should you go for your first ski vacation?

Enjoy an all-inclusive stay with unlimited skiing at one of 20 Club Med mountain Resorts. Most of these are ski-in/ski-out resorts. To make the most of your first ski vacation, choose a Resort that best suits your skill level.

For example, the Alpe d’Huez ski area is ideal for beginners, with 43 green and 34 blue runs. In between ski lessons (from 4 years of age), take in the views around the Resort during a cross-country ski trek (from 12 years of age) or slide on your skates* for some fun on the Resort's ice rink.

In Sahoro, Japan, the natural topography is also ideal for beginners. Located in the heart of the snow-covered mountains of Hokkaido, the site is characterized by gentle slopes that allow you to progress at your own pace or try your hand at snowboarding (from 8 years of age) with an experienced instructor.

Also in Asia, the massive Yabuli ski resort is perfect for your first experience with winter sports. Here in northern China, the highest summit reaches an altitude of 4,500 feet. The terrain is easily accessible and covered with a fresh layer of powder. It also boasts 6 blue and 6 green runs which are often the site of group classes.

*At extra cost

Discover the Alpe d’Huez La Sarenne Resort

Which services can I expect at Club Med?

With our Easy Arrival* option, you'll save time and be able to enjoy your all-inclusive ski vacation to the fullest. Introductory lessons, a totally safe environment, and the utmost in pleasure: the whole family is free to sign up for the ski or snowboard classes included in your package and suitable for every skill level. The lessons are taught by experienced instructors from a national ski school who know the ski area like the back of their hand.

You'll be given your ski lift passes when you arrive** and your equipment will be waiting for you in the ski room. The ski room, which contains your private locker, offers direct access to the slopes. You can store your skis or your snowboard there, as well as your helmet and boots. The room also contains a handy boot dryer.

If you're staying in an Exclusive Collection Space at your Club Med Resort, you also get access to a luxury fitting room with a glove dryer, mirror, cupboards, coffee, and snacks.

*Service bookable 30 days before you arrive

**Can be used from the day after your arrival

Follow our tips for getting started with skiing

How can I rent my winter sports equipment?

You have two options. Take advantage of our Easy Arrival service to inform us, 30 days before your vacation in the mountains, of your skill level, weight, helmet size, and shoe size. We'll prepare equipment* that is best suited for your physique and needs.

You can also rent* your equipment once you arrive at the Resort. Simply head for the Ski Pro Shop®. Here, experts will help you pick the right equipment. Thanks to our partnership with Rossignol, the world leader in alpine skiing, you'll benefit from the most recent versions of equipment made with all the latest technology.

Before leaving home, be sure to pack a warm, waterproof outfit, as well as a pair of sunglasses (or a mask) and some sunscreen. Club Med will take care of the rest!

*At extra cost

Find out all you need to know about the partnership between Rossignol and Club Med