Gear Up for Méribel: Your Guide to Ski Hire, Lessons and Ski School

The beginning of any ski vacation starts well if the first day of the vacation goes smoothly. This means having properly fitted boots, properly matched ski equipment depending on one’s skill level, and a welcoming instructor ready at the agreed-upon point. If you are going to have a winter vacation, this is what you should know about skiing in Méribel.

How to Choose Your Equipment: Hire or Bring Your Own? 

If you ski or snowboard several times a year, you may prefer your own kit. For most visitors, though, hiring is simpler. You avoid paying airline fees for bulky ski bags, and you can match your equipment to the conditions and your ability. Méribel ski hire is available at shops throughout the resort, usually close to the lifts, and you can choose basic or performance packages depending on your experience. Boots are the most important item, so take the time to get a proper fit. Pre-booking your equipment is worth doing, as it reduces waiting time on your first day and gives you a better choice of sizes during busy weeks.

How Ski School Works in the Resort?

The Meribel Ski School teaches in groups and also provides individual lessons for all ages. Group lessons are fun and cost-effective, and they are best suited for beginners who would like to learn with others of similar skill level. Individual lessons mean having one-to-one time with your instructor, and they are recommended when you need more attention or wish to take on a certain challenge. They are also useful when skiing with kids of varying skill levels.

Ski and Snowboard Lessons for Every Level

Méribel ski lessons include instruction for all levels, from total beginners to experienced skiers who wish to develop their techniques or go off-piste. The novice class is usually held in the beginner zones consisting of wide slopes close to the resort itself. Intermediate skiers may work on their carving technique, acceleration and handling the slopes of any level.

There are excellent snowboard courses available in Méribel as well. Here you can learn all the skills, from the basics to freestyle tricks. Instructors will assist in choosing the proper board and position. If you travel with a group containing both skiers and snowboarders, you can make separate arrangements and get together for lunch.

Why Booking Ahead Is Worth It?

Demand for lessons and equipment is at its peak during Christmas and New Year, the February school holidays, and Easter, when instructors are fully booked and popular times are quickly taken up. Booking early allows you to ensure that you get the desired dates, class sizes, and type of instructors, and you don’t have to make concessions at the eleventh hour. You also get to schedule better based on your lift pass and arrival day.

A Few Practical Tips 

You should try to come to your first class with your boots already fitting properly and your lift ticket organised. Wear plenty of layers, bring a helmet, and put on sunscreen even when the weather is cloudy, since the sun is very intense at high altitudes. If this is your first time skiing, you might want to schedule some classes for the first few days.

How Meribel Unplugged Can Help?

Planning the booking of your accommodation, transportation, equipment rental, and lessons separately can easily become a time-consuming task. The team at Méribel Unplugged will be able to use their local expertise to assist you in choosing the right package based on your requirements, skill level, and dates.

Ready to get your Méribel trip organised?

Contact Méribel Unplugged today to arrange your accommodation, transfers, ski hire and lessons in one place. So, get in touch with our team to start planning your winter.