Avoriaz - Avoriaz Alpine Ski School
The Avoriaz Alpine Ski School has been a firm feature in the famous resort of Avoriaz since 1992, with their varied courses, friendly staff, and effective coaching style renowned across the ski area.
Run by Ian Mckellar, ex-World Cup Mogul skier and BASI trainer, the Avoriaz Alpine Ski School was one of the first British-run ski schools in the French Alps when it was established. Almost twenty years later, it now boasts a small, independent team of British and French instructors, all of whom hold the highest international snowsport qualifications and French recognition.
Their team know everything there is to know not just about skiing itself, but also about the vast Portes du Soleil ski area and its best-kept skiing secrets.
Indeed, Les Portes du Soleil has got to be one of the best areas in which to develop your ski skills. One of the world’s biggest and best ski areas, it offers over 600km of slopes to explore and a huge variety of terrain.
Avoriaz is set right in the centre of Les Portes du Soleil, with quick access to the slopes and a very reliable snow record, thanks to its high altitude location.
The Avoriaz Alpine Ski School run coaching courses for all levels of skier, from development courses to off-piste progression and ladies weeks. With expert instruction and engaging learning atmospheres, all these courses offer a fun-filled way to progress in one of the most beautiful ski areas in Europe.
SEASON UPDATE FOR 2022/23
If you are preparing for a ski trip the Avoriaz Alpine Ski School have put together a video to help you to prepare your clothing and gear.
Also, for beginner skiers & snowboarders, they are kicking off the season with some 3-day group courses to get you off to a great start - 12th-14th and again on 14th-16th December. If this matches the dates you are in Avoriaz, and are keen on the course, please email info@avoriazalpineskischool.com for further info. They also have a tune up group course for intermediate skiers on 13-15th December, for those happy enough on hard blues/easy reds. This is the perfect way to start the winter, ensuring you have the right techniques and fundamentals to build upon - pop us a quick message on info@avoriazalpineskischool.com if you're in Avoriaz on those dates.
Off Piste and Backcountry
If you want to improve your off piste technique, explore the ski area outside of the pistes, or simply make the most of a serious snowfall, Avoriaz Alpine Ski School can provide the ultimate experience. They will help you work on your technique, guide you to the best untouched snow, or simply create a safe, epic adventure.
Condition permitting, they can also help you take on the famous Vallée de la Manche route in safety, whilst searching for the best snow. Ski or snowboard into an awesome backcountry valley, stopping for a well-earned beer at the bottom before returning to Morzine or Avoriaz using free shuttle buses.
Ski Touring
Unlock new and incredible terrain with a ski touring course. Avoriaz Alpine Ski School offer expert coaching in the latest touring techniques, with introductory sessions as well as guided tours. Their guides will take you to some of the areas' most beautiful spots, untouched by other skiers and with incredible views of the surrounding area.
Private Coaching
Avoriaz Alpine Ski School also offer private lessons for all ages and all abilities in either 1-1 settings or private groups of friends and family. ?
Private coaching is often regarded as the best way to improve your skiing and snowboarding as coaches can choose specific terrain for your ability and goals and ensure you're enjoying every minute of your session! It also allows you the instructors' undivided attention and means they can give you specific drills, exercises and coaching tips that you can continue even after your session.
Avalanche Awareness and Mountain Safety Training
Avoriaz Alpine Ski School also run highly recommended training sessions throughout the season for those that wish to ski or snowboard off piste safely.
The meeting point for the AASS is on the Avoriaz Plateau (between La Folie Douce & Yeti), so is also easily accessible from Morzine and other areas of Les Portes du Soleil.
Here at Skiweekends, we offer a wide range of beautiful ski-in, ski-out chalets right next to the Ski School meeting point in Avoriaz, as well as a number of properties in other areas of Les Portes du Soleil.
Find out more about our chalets in Avoriaz here.