Question 1

Where do we meet in the morning for ski lessons in Méribel or Courchevel?

Accepted Answer

Before your private lesson, we will agree the most convenient meeting point based on your accommodation and ability.
 • Méribel Centre (La Chaudanne): West side of the Rhodos lift building.
 • Méribel Village: Bottom of the chairlift.
 • Méribel Morel/Altiport: Base of the drag lift beside the Altiport chair.
 • Méribel Rond-Point: Where the piste meets the road off the Rond-Point.
 • Méribel Mottaret: Outside the lift-pass door of the Tourist Office.
 • Courchevel 1850 & 1550: Outside the lift-pass office towards the slopes.
 • Courchevel 1650 (Moriond): Bottom of the Ariondaz lift.
 • Courchevel Le Praz (1300): Top or bottom of the Le Praz bubble.
 • For full-day private lessons I can also meet you directly at your chalet or hotel.

Question 2

What is the best ski rental service in Méribel?

Accepted Answer

I recommend Ski Higher (https://skihigher.com/)for high-quality equipment and flexible delivery. They have shops in Les Allues and La Tania and also offer in-chalet fitting. Pre-book online and they will deliver your skis and boots to your door the day before your first lesson, then collect them at the end of your stay.

Question 3

Which are the best mountain restaurants in the 3 Valleys?

Accepted Answer

The Three Valleys is full of exceptional dining spots. Personal favourites include:
 • Chez Pépé Nicolas, Val Thorens – an idyllic alpine farm setting.
 • Cave de Crux – stunning views, excellent food and live music.
 • Le Montagnard, St Martin – inventive plat du jour and beautiful terrace.
 • Chalet de Pierres, La Soucoupe & Le Tremplin, Courchevel – legendary desserts, open-fire grills and lively atmosphere.
 • Le Clos Bernard, Méribel – a forest hideaway accessible on skis or by horse-drawn sleigh.
 I can help plan your week to match the best restaurants with your ski routes and weather.

Question 4

How do I choose the best private ski instructor in the 3 Valleys?

Accepted Answer

The “best” instructor is the one who fits your needs. I specialise in family groups, adult beginners, children’s lessons and confidence-building coaching, but I also work with trusted colleagues for guests seeking intensive off-piste or corporate experiences. Contact me and we can match you with the right professional.

Question 5

Should I book a ski school or private ski lessons?

Accepted Answer

Group lessons with a ski school can work well, but results vary depending on class size and instructor. Private ski lessons in Méribel or Courchevel give faster progress, personalised feedback and flexible scheduling. Young children (“minis”) benefit most from one-to-one or very small groups so they can learn to snowplough and turn at their own pace.

Question 6

What is the best age for children to start skiing?

Accepted Answer

Parents often ask me: “When’s the right time for my child to start learning to ski?”

Under 3 Years Old
At this age, skiing is really about fun and memories rather than skill. It’s more for the parents’ enjoyment than the child’s learning. The most important thing is to keep it playful and positive so your little one builds good associations with snow.
If the slopes are quiet, the weather is mild, and the goal is simply enjoying the moment, it can be magical. I first took my son at 13 months, and by 19 months it was already his favourite video to watch. He can’t wait to do it again!

Around 3 Years Old
A good rule of thumb: when your child can go to the loo on their own, they’re ready to start skiing lessons. That shows independence, self-awareness, and coordination (plus, no more nappies 😅).

The Real Magic: Age 5+
From around age five, children’s proportions catch up with their heads, their balance naturally shifts forward (more like adults), and skiing really starts to “click.” This is when proper technique, confidence, and independence begin to shine.

So… How Young Is Too Young?
It depends on your expectations. Under 3, it’s all about fun and exposure. From 3 onwards, kids can start real learning at their own pace. And by 5, most children are ready to truly fall in love with skiing.

Question 7

What’s My Ski Level?

Accepted Answer

• Beginner: First time on skis, never skied before.
 • Intermediate: Learning parallel turns. Confident on green slopes, and exploring Blues.
 • High Intermediate Skiing parallel, carving basics, tackling red runs and mixed snow conditions.
 • Advanced: Confident on red runs, some black runs, carving, short turns, moguls, and all-snow conditions.

Let me know your recent experience and I will tailor the lesson to your exact level.

Question 8

What should I pack for a ski holiday in the 3 Valleys?

Accepted Answer

On the Slopes
 • Ski socks
 • Thermal leggings
 • Ski trousers
 • Thermal long-sleeve top
 • Thin but warm mid-layer/jumper
 • Insulated jacket or fleece
 • Waterproof ski jacket
 • Ski gloves or mittens
 • Helmet
 • Goggles
 • Sunglasses (for sunny terrace stops)
 • Neck buff/warmer
 • Ski boots (if you own them, otherwise rent)

Essentials & Cosmetics
 • Your usual toiletries
 • High-factor suncream
 • SPF lip balm

Evenings & Non-Ski Days
 • Comfy loungewear/snug clothes
 • A couple of nice outfits for dinners
 • Snow boots (warm, waterproof)
 • Beanie hat & cap (for sunny days)
 • Swimwear (most resorts have a pool/spa nearby)
 • A good book (or two!)

Don’t Forget!

• Toothbrush
 • Underwear (easy to forget in the packing rush!)

Question 9

When is the best time to book a ski holiday and lessons in Méribel or Courchevel?

Accepted Answer

The 3 Valleys season usually runs from early December to late April.
 • December - January: Quieter slopes, festive atmosphere, excellent early snow.
 • February: Peak school-holiday period; book lessons months in advance.
 • March - April: Longer sunny days and great spring skiing.
 Private lessons sell out quickly during Christmas, New Year and February half-term, so secure your dates as soon as your accommodation is booked.

Contact Lara, ski instructor in Méribel and Courchevel, to book your lessons.

Contact Lara Ski

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