A fun little fact about me is that when I was 15, I took half a P.E GCSE. I bloody loved it, we did orienteering, skiing and a few more generic sports too. I was so excited to be taking on the dry slopes as it was something I’d never done before. I’d been doing particularly well, exceeding my own expectations as I wasn’t sure it was something I’d be any good at.
Well, that was until my final run of the course, I got overconfident and went to the very top of the dry slope. I hadn’t done this before and knew this was my only chance as it was unlikely I’d be back any time soon. And that did not end well, about a quarter of the way time, I did a very silly thing; I stood up. I rolled backwards time and time again until my ski got lodged in the slope and a friend came to unclip me, so I could get free and get off the slope.
My pelvis and spine have been permanently damaged.
Some days I don’t notice the issue at all, other days it hinders some of the bits and bobs I want to get done. I guess I’ve just gotten used to it.
After all those years, 20 of them to be exact, I am ready to book myself a ski holiday as I’m fed up of the FOMO I get when I see friends having the most fun on their holidays. I will, of course, be using a specialist ski travel agent to choose the right resort for a beginner as I have no idea where to start!
After some discussions, I’ve been told that, for beginners, Europe offers some fantastic ski slopes with gentle runs, great instructors, and beautiful scenery:
- Alpe d’Huez, France – Known for its wide, sunny slopes and a dedicated beginner area which isperfect for first-timers.
- Söll, Austria – Very beginner friendly and budget-friendly (we like that!), Söll has plenty of gentle blue runs and welcoming après-ski spots.
- Les Arcs, France – Ideal for beginners, with smooth, well-groomed slopes and English-speaking instructors.
- Bansko, Bulgaria – A popular, affordable choice, Bansko offers ski schools and beginner-friendly runs.
- Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – Stunning scenery with gentle, easy-to-navigate slopes in a relaxed atmosphere.
These resorts offer great ski schools and a welcoming atmosphere, making them perfect for building confidence on the snow, which we all know I really need!
I did also ask the vest important question of ‘which of these ski resorts has the best Apres Ski?’ to be met with the response;
- Alpe d’Huez, France – Known for lively après-ski options, Alpe d’Huez has a fantastic atmosphere with plenty of bars, including the famous La Folie Douce, where you’ll find music, dancing, and vibrant crowds.
- Söll, Austria – Austria is famous for its après-ski, and Söll doesn’t disappoint. This ski village offers cosy pubs and lively après spots, such as the Moonlight Bar, making it perfect for winding down after a day on the slopes.
So you know full well I shall be booking one of those!
Are you a seasoned skier? Do you have any advice for me?
I'm Squibb Vicious, better known as Haydy!
Happiest with a craft beer in hand, eating til my heart is content or exploring somewhere new.
Here you can read about my adventures!