The Best Ski Resorts for Beginners

Everyone starts their ski or snowboarding journey somewhere - usually with a few wobbles, some questionable turns, and an instructor who deserves a medal for patience. That’s where we come in!

At Ski Safari, we've been there. Some of our team are relatively new to skiing, others are seasoned pros who still sneak in the odd lesson to perfect their turns. And many of us have guided nervous little legs down their first green runs - sometimes backwards - but always with a smile (and occasionally a hot chocolate bribe).

We know just how important it is to choose the right resort, and that’s why we’ve put together our top beginner-friendly resorts for all ages. Whether you’re an adult beginner craving the full mountain experience (not just the nursery slope shuffle) or you're introducing the next generation to the slopes, it’s important to have friendly instructors so that learning is fun, progress comes quickly, and no one judges your snowplough.

We've helped thousands of happy customers ski for the first time - many of whom now return year after year. Contact our friendly team on 01273 224060 or enquire online, and we’ll take care of everything from lift passes to lessons. You just focus on nailing that first turn!

For learning to ski, Norway can’t be beaten. After all, it's where the sport first began, so the Norwegians have been doing it longer than anyone else! In addition to excellent ski schools and friendly English-speaking instructors, the resorts have a wide range of beginner-friendly areas with gentle, uncrowded slopes, so you can learn at your own pace without worrying about busy bottlenecks or speeding pros.

Norway is ideal for progression too - once you've mastered the nursery slopes, you can confidently explore the wider ski area. The resorts are compact and well-designed, with no nasty surprises or tricky linking runs along steep drops.

Beito Resort in Beitostølen is cosy, picturesque and welcomes beginners with open arms. Over 60% of the ski area is graded green - perfect for first-timers or those wanting to dust off any skiing cobwebs.

The resort also has a fantastic English-speaking ski school - perfect for nervous Brits who don’t know a word of Norwegian. And if you’re worried about skiing higher than your ability, Beitostølen Resort has no black runs or no-go zones in the resort, so you can’t take a wrong turn down advanced terrain.

What sets Beito apart from other beginner-friendly resorts is the chance to enjoy a range of unique non-skiing activities on your day off from the slopes. Our top picks are snow rafting and dog sledding, but if you're up for a scenic adventure, there are miles of beautiful cross-country trails to explore too!

In this alpine village, all crucial amenities are a hop, skip and a jump from one another, so there’s little chance of getting lost while exploring off the slopes either. The ‘afterski’ (après ski) scene is laid-back and includes a couple of cheerful pubs and bars, such as Lodge 900 and Bryggerihuset Svingen Bar, which can get surprisingly lively on weekends with live music, DJs, and dancing.

The 4* Radisson Blu Resort boasts stunning views and a prime location at the heart of the resort. Just steps away from the main ski lifts, ski school, and equipment rentals, everything you need is within easy reach. That also includes the village centre, with a surprising number of restaurants, bars and shops.

The Radisson Blu has a wide range of comforts to complete your stay, including a large swimming pool, wellness centre, squash court, and spa treatments - just the treat you deserve after a long day of lessons!

“Beitostølen Resort was everything it was sold as and more. Everything we needed was close by, the resort had lots of different activities available as well as great skiing for beginner and intermediate skiers. Short lifts and good length runs for this level. Tobogganing, dog sledding, horse riding treks and more. Lovely restaurants and two supermarkets within walking distance. Perfect for families, we had an amazing holiday here!” - Ella Gwynn

“Great small resort for anyone learning to ski or snowboard. The instructors at the ski school are excellent and we highly recommend the private lessons. We have been there two years on the trot and love it!” - Crystal Downie

Learn more about Beitostølen or see our Beitostølen ski packages & offers.

What makes Norefjell so great for families and beginners? For one, the short flight and swift two-hour transfer from Oslo make it one of the quickest Norwegian ski resorts to travel to - ideal for minimising the time kids spend wriggling around in their seats! Secondly, the slopes are quiet, even in peak times, so you don’t need to worry about queuing at lifts or dodging hundreds of skiers blasting past while you’re practising your turns.

The variety of beginner runs means you’re not limited to one area, bringing a new adventure every day for those starting their skiing journey. Once ski school finishes, you'll be eager to practise your newly learnt skills as a family on the unintimidating green and blue runs. There’s also a range of more challenging slopes with decent pitch and vertical drop if there are more experienced members in your group (Norefjell has over 1000m vertical drop).

The resort's family feel is completed with regular visits from the resort mascot, Nore Rein, the friendly reindeer who frequently skis through the resort and never shies away from a photo! Nore Rein understands that skiing is challenging for the first time, so he loves to inspire little ones to put on their gear and make the most of the snow, all with a huge grin on their faces!

Voted Norway's Best Resort Spa in 2024 in the World Spa Awards, the 4*+ Norefjell Ski & Spa will entertain families and couples alike. Kids and energetic adults will love the hotel’s games room, pool table, air hockey, swimming pool and an indoor climbing wall - for once, you’ll be the one driving them up the wall!

While the kids learn the ropes, adults can leave any stresses behind in the hotel's superb spa. Just sit back and relax with a glass of bubbly in the heated outdoor infinity pool or unwind in the Finnish and infrared saunas.

With stylish rooms, warm service, and a serene atmosphere, Norefjell Ski & Spa is a great place to unwind after a day perfecting your skiing or snowboarding. Dining is stress-free too! Swap out pizza turns for pizza feasts and enjoy the casual mood of Restaurant Matbaren, or head to the main restaurant for a well-stocked buffet of local ingredients.

“Excellent resort for families and beginners. Small, compact which made the whole resort easily accessible for everyone. Stunning scenery and plenty of snow.” - Nikki Lawrence

“This is very much a resort for beginners or those looking for a gentler experience. Plenty of green and blue runs but not a great deal to stretch more seasoned skiers/boarders. Our family had lessons and raved about the instructors being so nice and friendly in comparison to other European experiences.” - Chris Mcintyre-Brown

Learn more about Norefjell or see our Norefjell ski packages & offers.

Regular winner of Norway’s Best Ski Resort, Geilo has everything you need for a successful first ski holiday - superb ski tuition, genuine hospitality and first-rate childcare.

And that’s not all. Geilo also sits right on the iconic Oslo to Bergen railway, and the section between Bergen and Geilo is especially beautiful. If gliding past fjords and dramatic mountain scenery before climbing up to the breathtaking Hardangervidda plateau doesn’t make you feel like you’re in a Nordic fairy tale, we don’t know what will. For bonus bragging rights on your first ski holiday, fly into Oslo and out of Bergen (or vice versa) and tick the whole route off your bucket list.

If you need a rest from skiing and want to try Norway’s other winter sports, Geilo caters for everyone. Dog sledding, snowmobiling and ice fishing are just some of the activities you can try.

Most beginner skiers stay on Geilo's Vestlia side with the gentlest slopes right on the doorstep. Convenience is key to a successful holiday, and it doesn't get much better than staying at the stunning 4*+ Vestlia Resort, located a short walk from the ski school, lift and childcare centre. The hotel is incredibly popular among our customers, and with good reason! There’s a great selection of facilities, including a restaurant and a family-friendly indoor pool - just in case your kids still have too much energy after a day of lessons!

Alternatively, if you pictured your holiday taking place in more of an authentic wooden cabin, surrounded by pine trees covered in soft, powdery snow, the 4* Geilolia Forest Cabins could be the ticket.

Each cabin holds all the amenities you’ll need for a comfortable, relaxing skiing trip, including a real fireplace, a well-stocked kitchen and even a sauna (in most cabins). Just add in woolly jumpers and hot chocolate and you’ve got yourself a cosy mountain hideaway.

“Great for a family ski holiday. A smaller ski area with easy to intermediate runs - not too challenging - so great for a family of mixed abilities, and most especially for children learning. There were virtually NO lines. So even if the runs were short, you went straight back up. The ski school was excellent. Well organised, accommodating, and with a dedicated area [...]. The instructors were great - kind, patient, and fun.” - Megan McIllwain Elliott

“This ski resort is a fantastic destination for new skiers and families. The slopes are meticulously maintained, and the entire setup caters perfectly to family needs. My kids absolutely love it, and we've happily returned two years in a row. The ski instructors are friendly and you feel like you are in good hands. There's something for everyone - we've stayed on green and blue runs so far but are ready to progress next year! A truly memorable experience for all.” - Pamela Whalley

Learn more about Geilo or see our Geilo ski packages & offers.

Just a short transfer from Bergen Airport, Myrkdalen really stands out as a top beginner resort to us at Ski Safari. The resort stays blissfully uncrowded (it's still under the radar for most UK skiers), and most of the local pros head straight for the off-piste, touring routes or terrain parks.

And that's great news for beginners. The wide, groomed beginner slopes at the base of the mountain are all yours to tackle in your own time, perfect for learning the basics without feeling rushed. Enjoy!

Once you’re ready to move on from the beginner zone, bear in mind that several lifts are long T-bars, so if you’re a cautious skier, you might prefer heading up with an instructor or pro in your group. Likewise, if you’re a beginner snowboarder, a pro tip would be to have a whole T-bar for yourself so you have more space for your board to ride up comfortably and enjoy the views.

If you're new to skiing and are looking to stay somewhere comfy, modern and near to everything you could possibly need, the 4* Myrkdalen Hotel is a beginner’s dream. Right at the foot of the slopes and metres from the ski school meeting point, you could stumble out of bed, layer up and click on your skis just in time for your first lesson of the day. No hiking half a mile in ski boots - just straight to the lifts.

Inside, you’ll find a sleek Nordic style (fancy but cosy), and comfy open lounges to sit back and relax sore muscles after a day of perfecting the snowplough. And with a kids’ play area and a sports bar, the whole group can chill out (or celebrate surviving the day).

For a self-catering option, stay in the hotel’s self-catered apartments (in a separate building from the main hub), which offer a spacious and well-equipped base - ideal if you want to spread out your ski gear and make yourself feel at home.

Fuel up on a hearty buffet breakfast (because who wants to start a ski day hangry?) and enjoy the hotel’s Norwegian-inspired dishes or delicious homemade pizza at Tunet every evening. For a special treat, you’ll also have the chance to dine at the cosy Swiss-style fondue restaurant on one evening during your stay - the perfect way to celebrate a week of progress on the pistes. With food this good, you definitely won’t go hungry, which means you’ve got every excuse to squeeze in that one last run each day.

“Amazing resort, perfect for families and beginners. The hotel is genuinely ski-in-ski-out and everyone was super friendly. Had planned to do some of the trips but enjoyed the skiing so much we didn't leave the mountain! Slopes are great, no queues for lifts and a good variety of runs [...] Ski lessons were brilliant - we had a range of instructors and they were excellent.” - Andy Burgess

“Ski school staff were brilliant, even stopping to help me and my daughter on the slopes in the middle of another lesson. The resort was small but had plenty for us all to do. There was one whole set of runs we never got to. Lift staff were lovely.” - Kitt Stones

Learn more about Myrkdalen or see our Myrkdalen ski packages & offers.

Just across the border, Sweden’s resorts boast wide, open runs that are thoughtfully designed with newcomers in mind, making learning to ski both easy and enjoyable.

Swedish ski areas are also renowned for their calm, safe atmosphere and crowd-free slopes. With virtually no lift queues, you’ll spend less time shuffling and more time skiing, giving you the perfect opportunity to build confidence and hone your graceful turns.

If you're just starting on the slopes, Åre is a brilliant place to fall in love with skiing. With over 1,000 acres of skiable terrain, there's plenty of space to explore without the crowds, even during peak weeks. Bonus points - kids under seven ski for free, which is great news for your wallet and your tiny ski companions.

The Björnen area is basically a warm hug for beginners with tailor-made, gentle runs that ease you into skiing without bruising your ego (or your tailbone). The ski school here is top notch, and the chilled-out vibe makes learning feel more like fun and less like survival training.

Once you've got the hang of it, you can ski the wider area of Björnen or the slopes toward the main village of Åre for wider, flowing runs that let you pick up a bit of speed without stepping too far out of your comfort zone. And the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down - literally. With floodlit evening skiing and long spring days, Åre makes sure you squeeze every glorious minute out of your holiday.

Off the slopes, Åre keeps the charm going strong. The lakeside town is packed with quirky activities. Have a go at ziplining, or visit the chocolate factory (because you earned it), then sip hot drinks in one of the cafés that radiate “hygge” (a concept deeply rooted in Scandinavian culture for comfort and enjoyment).

Treat yourself and catch live music on weekends, grab a burger at Broken, or level up to Scandinavian fine dining at Supper. Either way, your taste buds will be doing victory laps.

For a stress-free, stylish place to stay, the 5* Copperhill Mountain Lodge is hard to beat. Set high on the mountainside, this luxurious ski-in, ski-out hotel is steps away from the slopes each morning.

If you’re a total beginner and think the run from the hotel might be a tad too tricky to start with, fear not! There's a handy shuttle that’ll swoop you down to the easy slopes and your ski lesson meeting point in a few minutes. And hey, after a few days of slow-and-steady snowplough turns, you’ll probably be confident enough to cruise down that run like a pro (or at least like a brave, waddling penguin).

Inside, the Copperhill blends high-end design with a warm, welcoming feel. Whether you’re staying in a cosy double room or a spacious suite, you’ll enjoy modern Scandinavian style with natural pine and stone touches throughout. Families will love the kids club, games areas, and casual dining options, while couples can unwind by the fire, dine in the fine restaurant, or relax in the stunning Sámi-inspired spa.

“A fantastic resort. Very child-friendly and the ski instructors were super - the children loved them. Lots of snow and not too busy at all.” - Carolyn Jamieson

“Beautiful town with plentiful skiing, not too busy even on the busiest days. Friendly and accommodating, wide pistes and friendly mountain restaurants.” - Emma Greatorex Brooks

Learn more about ­Åre or see our Åre ski packages & offers.

Hassle-free and smooth sailing is the aim of the game when it comes to your first or second skiing holiday. So, how does having everything you need within a five-minute walk of your accommodation sound?

Stöten is a top choice: it’s a compact resort where lifts, accommodation, restaurants, and activities are within easy reach. The locals are genuinely friendly and passionate about making your stay enjoyable, which adds to the warm, supportive vibe, ideal for first-timers on the slopes.

The skiing itself is incredibly beginner-friendly. The wide, gentle slopes are blissfully uncrowded and so easy to navigate, you’ll feel like a snow-savvy genius in no time. You can ski from top to bottom without ever feeling out of your depth, and the layout of the resort means it's easy to build confidence with every run.

After skiing, there’s plenty to enjoy off the slopes too: family-friendly après ski, and fun non-ski activities like snowmobiling and dog sledding, or a dip in the pool and spa to soothe the muscles you forgot you had. For dinner, you’ll find delicious locally sourced food, such as hearty burgers to traditional reindeer dishes.

If it’s your first time skiing, 4* Ski Lodge Soltorget makes everything feel easy. Right at the bottom of the beginner slopes, the lodge is just steps away from the ski school, rental area, and the Vargy Express Lift. No need to worry about buses or carrying skis across the resort - you’re right where you need to be.

The lodge was built in 2023, and the apartments are modern, bright, and super comfortable. They’re designed in a clean Scandinavian style, with big windows, warm wooden touches, and lovely views over the mountains. With three to five bedrooms, everyone gets space to spread out (and possibly avoid that one person who snores). Enjoy a full kitchen and two bathrooms in every apartment to make those rushed mornings a bit smoother too.

After a day on the slopes, you can relax in your apartment, grab a drink downstairs, or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the two on-site restaurants. You can also pre-order your ski gear so it’s waiting in your locker when you arrive - one less thing to think about.

“Fantastic family-focused resort with a good variety of pistes within easy reach of the nursery slopes. [...] The lounge bar at the base of the Vargy express lift is a great base, especially for those with little kids. [...] And to top it off, a super easy travel experience!” - Hannah Crowe

“Fantastic resort for children and beginners. Lots of lovely long green and blue runs through the forest. No lift queues, friendly staff, great instructors. A particular highlight was the piste side BBQs in the sunshine.” - Lynsey McKay

Learn more about Stöten or see our Stöten ski packages & offers.

Canada might be known for epic powder and hardcore terrain, but don’t let that put you off - it's also a brilliant place to learn to ski. While some Brits assume it’s all expert-level slopes, Canadian resorts are packed with gentle runs, top-notch ski schools, and welcoming vibes that make it ideal for beginners.

And let’s not forget the Canadians themselves - famously friendly, laid-back, and endlessly patient (basically the dream combo when you’re falling over every five minutes). From lifties to instructors, there’s no shortage of people to help and cheer you on.

The resort that has it all, Whistler ticks every box. This expansive resort features a dedicated and secluded mid-mountain learning area to make your transition from beginner to pro (okay, confident beginner) a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

The ski school also offers comprehensive lessons for all ages and abilities, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience on the slopes. You’re never too old, or too good, to learn something new.

When you’re ready to explore Whistler’s huge ski area, connected by the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, the distance you’ll cover will leave you feeling confident on your skis and grinning from ear to ear.

Off the slopes, there’s no shortage of things to do. With more restaurants than you could possibly fit into one trip and a handful of great après spots, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.

If you’re looking for more adventure, try snowmobiling through the backcountry, soaring on a zipline, taking in the views on a helicopter tour - or even braving a bungee jump. We told you it has it all!

The 5* Westin Resort & Spa is the ideal base for beginner skiers in Whistler, perfectly blending luxury, comfort and convenience. Located just steps from the Whistler Village Gondola and ski school, you can go from bedhead to bunny slope in record time, without needing a Sherpa or a sense of direction.

Suites come with cosy fireplaces, soaker tubs and well-equipped kitchens, which make a great space to unwind after a day on the snow. It’s a five-star stay that’s ideal for families or friend groups who want a little extra... well, everything.

The hotel offers a spa, a selection of restaurants and the Firerock Lounge, an on-site bar. Add in boutique shops and a grab-and-go coffee station (for when you need caffeine before putting on your ski boots), and everything you need for an unforgettable first ski holiday is right here.

“Whistler itself is full of a wide variety of runs with almost all lifts having an easy route for beginners as well as more challenging runs. The village has plenty of shops, bars and restaurants to cater for any tastes.” - Philip Nockles

“Family friendly. Everything in one place. Super terrain and snow quality. Plenty to do in the resort. Amazing restaurants. Whistler Blackcomb staff are knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. Fantastic ski school.” - Ruth Groves

Learn more about Whistler or see our Whistler ski packages & offers.

If you're worried about accidentally ending up on a run that's too challenging, Sun Peaks is the ideal resort to ease those nerves. Every lift leads to gentle green terrain, making it perfect for beginners and mixed-ability groups alike. You can all ride the same lifts, ski at your own pace, and meet back at the bottom without any stress. The ski school here is also excellent - supportive, friendly, and well-suited to first-timers.

Spread across three mountains, Sun Peaks offers a great mix of terrain: cruisy runs on Sundance, gladed trails on Morrisey, and steeper slopes on Tod for when you're ready to progress. And the convenience is unbeatable - most accommodation is ski-in, ski-out and clustered around the charming village centre, which is also home to family-friendly restaurants, cosy bars and ski-access cafés.

Off the slopes, the variety of things to do is just as impressive. Try dog sledding, guided ice fishing, or even a starlight descent. Families will love the Sundance Kids Centre for little ones, and après-ski can mean anything from sleigh rides to catching a local Kamloops Blazers hockey game.

For beginner skiers looking for convenience, comfort and a touch of luxury, the 4* Sun Peaks Grand Hotel is an unbeatable choice. Being ski-in, ski-out means there's no chance of riding crowded shuttle buses, and no wrestling with your gear in a car park. Just step outside, click into your skis, and glide straight onto the gentle slopes like the snow pro you almost are. It’s right by the beginner-friendly runs on Sundance Mountain, perfect for building confidence without building bruises. And with ski school and rental shops nearby, everything you need is within snowball-throwing distance.

Inside, spacious and quiet rooms with plush bedding make for a great post-ski kip, while the heated outdoor pool and slopeside hot tubs are perfect for relaxing tired legs. The hotel’s Mantles Restaurant serves hearty breakfasts and dinners to refuel hungry skier appetites.

“A fantastic resort with a huge ski area and with little or no queuing for lifts and very quiet pistes. Staff at cafes, ski rental and activities desk were very friendly and helpful.” - Fiona Hendrie

“A great resort for a family ski holiday. There is a vast ski area and every lift has access for both advanced and intermediate / beginner skiers. The resort village is relatively small but has a range of different restaurants and bars” - Tom Shuttleworth

Learn more about Sun Peaks or see our Sun Peaks ski packages & offers.

The snow in Japan isn't just snow - it’s world-famous, feather-light powder. It is far more forgiving than icy terrain, making it easier to control your speed and build confidence. No pressure, no crowds, no icy drama.

Sure, you might think Japan is a bit far to travel to learn to ski, but trust us, you’ll come back with the ultimate beginner bragging rights.

Topped off with super-friendly ski schools, insanely good food (yes, your après-ski snack can be ramen), and a totally unique cultural experience, you’ve got an unforgettable ski holiday. Who said beginners had to start small?

Tucked just two hours from Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport, Kiroro is a hidden gem for beginner skiers seeking space, serenity, and the best sugar-soft snow in Hokkaido. Less well-known than neighbouring Niseko or Rusutsu, Kiroro enjoys consistent snowfall and a fraction of the crowds, meaning you’ll have beautifully groomed beginner slopes practically to yourself.

The beginner slopes here are so beautifully groomed and blissfully empty, it almost feels like they were reserved just for you. The layout is simple to understand and the runs are wide enough for all your wobbles. And the friendly instructors are always happy to help.

Kiroro’s two modern, resort-style hotels put everything under one roof: ski rentals, ski school, restaurants, swimming pools, onsens, and even karaoke for a light-hearted après-ski. 

With its quiet atmosphere, premium snow conditions, and all the essentials close at hand, it’s the perfect all-in-one base, especially if it’s your first trip to the mountains.

The 4* Yu Kiroro Hotel offers a boutique, ski-in, ski-out experience that’s ideal for beginners looking for comfort and convenience. Located just steps from gentle green runs and only 30 metres from the gondola, this hotel is ideal if you want to return for a mid-day break after a morning of lessons.

Families and groups of all sizes will appreciate the spacious apartments with stunning mountain views, while the traditional Japanese onsen is perfect for soothing tired muscles after a day learning new skills.

On-site dining at Yukashi and the cosy Whiskey Lounge mean delicious meals and relaxing après-ski moments are always close by. With its blend of luxury, support, and unbeatable location, Yu Kiroro offers a smooth and enjoyable start for anyone new to skiing.

“Small, local resort. Great snow conditions, uncrowded, great backcountry and tree skiing options.” - Jacqueline Skoyles

“A great resort, a wide range of terrain. Very well organised and lots of space. Our second time here and would certainly return again.” - Sally and Steve Jones

Learn more about Kiroro or see our Kiroro ski packages & offers.

Excited to get started and not sure what to do next? If you like the look of a resort and want to find out more, request a quotation online.

If you require additional information, such as the best time of year to experience a resort, or you have a question about equipment hire or accommodation, contact our experts on 01273 224060. We’re more than happy to help and talk all things ski and snowboard with you!

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