7 tips for skiing for the first time in the Abondance Valley in the Portes du Soleil

The mountains are covered in a thick layer of snow, the sky is clear blue and in the distance you can hear the soft whoosh of skiers gliding smoothly down the slopes. Your first winter sports holiday has begun! A moment you will never forget: full of excitement, fun and new memories. Whether you are travelling with your family, partner or friends, in the French Alps you can experience that special winter atmosphere in peace and luxury. Below we give you 7 valuable tips for your first skiing holiday, with practical information, smart preparations and inspiring ideas for a carefree winter holiday.

Our parks in the Portes du Soleil Our accommodations in the Alps

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1. Arrival day: A relaxed start to your winter sports holiday

The arrival day is often hectic: suitcases, children, snow, route and traffic jams. Therefore, plan your route smartly. Leave early in the morning so that you arrive in the afternoon and can unpack your bags in peace. When arriving to a FranceComfort resort you will be warmly welcomed by the UK-speaking host and hostess. They are there for you during your stay and will help you with practical information, reservations and tips on the slopes. After a warm welcome, you will receive the key to your luxury apartment or penthouse. Upon entering your accommodation, the scent of fresh wood, the soft light of the lamps and the view of snow-capped mountain peaks complete that holiday feeling. It is no surprise that many choose to stay with FranceComfort, where comfort and hospitality are key. In the Abondance Valley, there are two resorts that offer everything you need for a carefree holiday:

Both resorts are located in prime locations and combine authentic Alpine style with modern luxury. Think of wellness facilities and spacious apartments with panoramic views of the French Alps and in some cases even a private sauna or private jacuzzi.

Tip: Use the first evening to acclimatize. Get fresh local products in the village, enjoy dinner in a restaurant by the fireplace and get your ski clothes and ski pass ready. This way, you can start your first day of skiing relaxed the next morning.

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2. Renting or buying skis – what should you do when you go skiing for the first time?

As a beginner, the enthusiasm is often so great that it is tempting to buy your own skis straight away. Yet renting is often wiser. When renting you can test various types of skis and then make a well-considered purchase for the next year. In the Abondance valley there are several ski rental shops with modern equipment. The skis are tailored to your height, weight and skill level. Rent equipment near your apartment in the Portes du Soleil. There are several ski rental companies on our website and the park managers can also recommend the best addresses. Do you still want to buy ski equipment directly? Then pay attention to the type of ski, the bend (flex) and the bindings. Luxury ski shops in Portes du Soleil give expert advice and good service.

Types of skis: choose the right skis for your level

Carvingski	Beginners	Easy to steer, stable at low speed
All-mountain ski	Advanced	Suitable for different types of snow
Touring ski	Sporty skiers	For climbs and long tours
Freestyle ski	Experienced skiers	Flexible, suitable for park and jumps

Not all skis are the same. For beginners, there are special carving skis that are shorter and more manoeuvrable. They give more stability and confidence at low speed. Those who want something more adventurous can opt for all-mountain skis, which are suitable for different snow conditions. For advanced skiers, the touring skis or freestyle skis are a must try.

Tip: Let the ski shop help you adjust your bindings. Correct adjustment is important for safety and comfort.

3. The right clothing: warm, breathable and stylish

Those who go skiing for the first time often underestimate the importance of good ski clothing. Winters in the French Alps can be chilly, but the right clothing makes the difference between suffering in the cold and having carefree fun. With the right outfit, you will stay warm and move comfortably for the entire day. Wear three layers:

Thermo underlayer (keeps you warm and dry)
Fleece or down insulating layer (keeps you warm)
Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants (protects against snow and wind)

Add gloves, ski goggles, a hat, a buff and warm ski socks to this list, and you'll be ready for any type of weather. Invest in high-quality materials with breathability. Brands such as Peak Performance, Helly Hansen or Odlo offer stylish and functional clothing.

Tip Also bring gloves, a neck warmer and ski goggles. The sun at an altitude of 1,800 metres is intense, so everyone must bring lip balm with SPF and high factor sun cream.

4. Buy a ski pass: in advance or on site?

For your winter sports holiday in Portes du Soleil you can easily buy ski passes online in advance. This saves waiting time at the checkout and you will often receive a discount when booking online. There are different types of passes. You can buy a pass for a few days or for your entire stay. You can also opt to only use a limited number of slopes or opt to be able to access the entire Portes du Soleil region. The most extensive pass applies to the entire ski area that stretches across France and Switzerland with more than 600 kilometres of slopes. You can easily ski from village to village – from Abondance to Morzine or Avoriaz. These Day ski trips are very popular with experienced winter sports enthusiasts. For beginners, a ski pass for a couple of days and for just part of the French Alps is often sufficient. In the ski resort of Abondance or the ski resort of La Chapelle d'Abondance there are plenty of challenges for beginners and advanced skiers or snowboarders. On the days when you are not skiing you can visit villages, go hiking, go on a dog sled ride, go ice riding, try snow MTB, and much more. If you need rest and relaxation at the end of a busy day on the snow, plan a moment for wellness and après-ski.

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5. Beginner-friendly slopes and ski school in the Abondance Valley

For your first ever runs, you want slopes that are clear, spacious and not too steep. The Abondance valley is known for its quiet and wide slopes. Perfect for those who want to learn how to make their first turns on the snow. The villages of Abondance, La Chapelle d'Abondance and Les Gets have beautiful blue and green slopes. The slopes are clear, quiet and beautifully situated between forests and chalets.
The ski schools in the Abondance Valley offer lessons for adults and children, with Dutch-speaking teachers. They will guide you step by step until you can safely ski on your own. Lessons usually start in the morning and last half a day. You will not only learn the technique, but also how to brake and use lifts safely. Book the lessons in advance, if you want you can ask help from the park managers. After the lessons, you can have lunch at a cozy mountain restaurant overlooking the valley or relax in the wellness centre or lounge of your resort, offering the luxury that makes your winter sports holiday special.

6. Luxury apartments in the Abondance Valley

Those who love comfort, tranquility and style will feel right at home in one of FranceComfort’s ski resorts. FranceComfort accommodations make your winter sports holiday truly special. FranceComfort's winter sports resorts combine luxury, comfort and cosiness in a warm mountain atmosphere.

FranceComfort AlpChalets Portes du Soleil is located on a sunny slope with a view over the valley. The apartments and penthouses are spacious, modernly furnished and equipped with underfloor heating, a wellness area and underground parking. The resort has a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and bread service.
FranceComfort AlpResort Portes du Soleil has beautiful apartments on the outskirts of the village. The resort has a bread service, a sauna, a lounge area, a tennis court and entertainment for the youth. From your apartment you can walk straight into the village where you can dine at one of the restaurants.

Both resorts are family-friendly and offer the comfort you would expect from a high-end winter sports holiday. The hosts speak Dutch, which makes your stay even more personal. Whether you opt for a romantic getaway for two or a holiday with children, here you will experience the perfect blend of authentic charm and modern comfort.

FranceComfort – 20 years of experience in France

With more than twenty years of experience in the rental of holiday homes and apartments in France, FranceComfort knows exactly what guests value: comfort, quality and personal service. In winter, that means: luxury apartments, wellness, fresh croissants in the morning and service with a smile.

Whether it's summer or winter, FranceComfort offers high-quality accommodations in prime locations, always with a warm welcome from Dutch-speaking managers. Of course, there are differences between the various parks, so take a look to see which of the two parks suits you best

🔗 Also read: Luxury winter sports at FranceComfort

Just that little bit extra!

It's that little bit extra that keeps guests coming back to AlpChalets or AlpResort, year after year. The quality is also reflected in the high guest satisfaction scores that you can find everywhere. A winter sports holiday in the Abondance Valley in Portes du Soleil is more than skiing - it is coming home to the mountains, in an atmosphere of luxury, conviviality and tranquility. Whether you are on skis for the first time or have been visiting the Alps for years, in the Abondance Valley you will find the balance between sport, relaxation and style.

🔗 Also read: Why Portes du Soleil is the ultimate winter sports destination

7. What to take with you on your first ski holiday?

Your first skiing holiday is exciting and special. Nothing beats arriving at your apartment in the French Alps well prepared, so you can start your winter sports adventure in the Portes du Soleil feeling relaxed. Here is a handy checklist of important things you need to know and take with you:

Clothing – layers of comfort

Thermal underwear: keeps you warm and dry even in low temperatures.
Fleece or down jacket: a warm mid-layer that is breathable.
Waterproof ski jacket and ski pants: protects against snow and wind.
Ski socks: choose technical, seamless socks that prevent blisters.
Gloves or mittens: windproof and lined.
Scarf or buff and hat: protection for neck and head.
Ski goggles and sunglasses: against the bright mountain sun and snow reflection.

Equipment – smart renting or buying

As a beginner, renting is often the best choice. This way you can use material that exactly suits your level.

Skis, poles and boots: rent with a reliable ski shop in Portes du Soleil.
Helmet: indispensable for safety, often included in rental.
Backpack with hydration system: handy on the slopes.
Have you not rented online in advance? Ask the managers where you can best rent your equipment.

Care & protection

Only go if you are in good shape
Sunscreen with high factor.
Lipbalm with uv protection.
Small first aid kit
Water bottle or thermos flask.

Travel & Safety

Winter tires and snow chains + gloves and lamp for mounting.
Windshield washer fluid against frost.
Navigation with up-to-date traffic information for mountain roads.
Check car insurance for winter sports coverage.
Mobile phones with power bank for the slopes

Documents

Ski pass or voucher (preferably purchased online in advance).
Reservation confirmation of your accommodation.
Insurance certificate with winter sports coverage.
Identity card or passport.

Extras that make a difference

Swimwear for wellness or spa in the resort.
Comfortable clothes for evening by the fireplace.
Board games or books for evenings in the chalet.
Snow boots for walks through the village.

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Practical information for beginners

Altitude: approx. 1000 – 1800 meters
Ski pass: valid in 12 villages of Portes du Soleil
Ski rental: available in all villages of the Abondance Valley
Restaurants: from cozy mountain restaurants to gourmet kitchens
Transport: 75 minutes' drive from Geneva
Parking: free at FranceComfort resorts
Rules: Know the 10 FIS rules for conduct on the slopes and stick to them

Frequently asked questions about first time skiing in the Abondance Valley

1. Is the Abondance Valley suitable for families with children?
Yes, absolutely. The quiet slopes, various ski schools, UK-speaking ski instructors and family-friendly accommodations with facilities make it ideal for families.

2. When is the best time to ski in Portes du Soleil?
Snow conditions in the Portes du Soleil ski area are best from mid-December to mid-March. The slopes are at their best in January and February.

3. What clothes do I need for my first winter sports holiday?
Three layers: thermo, insulation and waterproof outer layer.

4. Do I need special shoes for skiing?
Yes. Ski boots are usually rented with the ski equipment. They should be tight but still feel breathable.

5. What can I do if I don’t feel like skiing?
Go for a winter walk, visit the village of La Chapelle or Abondance with its abbey, or relax in your resort's wellness centre.

6. Can I easily get to the resorts by car?
Yes, the roads are well maintained. Winter tyres are mandatory and snow chains are recommended.

7. Can I rent equipment at the resort?
No, not at the resort itself, but there are excellent rental points in the vicinity of FranceComfort resorts. At AlpResort you can even rent gear right next to the resort. There are several ski rental companies on our website.

Bonus: 3 extra winter sports holiday tips

Schedule moments of rest. Skiing is intensive, especially the first few days. Take an afternoon off to enjoy the sauna or a glass of wine on the balcony.
Take photos at sunset. The light over the valley is beautiful.
Taste local specialties. Cheese fondue, tartiflette and Abondance cheese are part of the charm of the region.

What do people often forget when going on a winter sports holiday?

Despite good preparation, some things are often forgotten that are really important to arrange or to know before going on a winter sports trip to the Portes du Soleil. You can get a hefty fine for some things. For more information and advice:

Environmental Stickers

Toll badge

Winter tyres and snow chains

Packing list holidays

Traffic Rules in France

A winter sports holiday in the Portes du Soleil with atmosphere, comfort and experience

Your first time skiing is an adventure you will never forget, especially when everything is taken care of for you down to the last detail. At FranceComfort AlpChalets Portes du Soleil and AlpResort Portes du Soleil you will find exactly what you are looking for: a luxury accommodation, hospitality in your own language and a perfect location in the middle of the French Alps. Whether you are going out with your family or want to enjoy a romantic winter week with your partner: at FranceComfort you will feel right at home.