Sandy has lived in Verbier for 14 years and has the highest qualification in the British and Swiss systems. A believer in making the most of your holiday, Sandy is a brilliant guide to what’s going on around town and on the slopes. After a three year sabbatical from ski instructing, Sandy is looking forward to seeing old faces and welcoming new guests to the 4 Vallées.
Julian Griffiths
Julian Griffiths started skiing in 1982, age eight. Skiing became a family obsession. A stint racing in his teens led to coaching roles and a decision to pursue a career as a ski instructor. He is now the founder, owner and boss of European Snowsport (ES).
In 1994 Julian became the youngest to pass the British Associations of Ski Instructor’s level 4 exam. Julian then enjoyed a ten-year career as an examiner and trainer of ski instructors. He now holds the top Swiss, Italian and Irish qualifications. Before Verbier, Julian worked as a ski instructor in New Zealand, Australia, The United States, France and Scotland.
Julian founded ES in 2003 after seeing a gap in the market for a high-level ski school. One that offered the sort of customer experience he’d seen outside Europe. This remains the mission. Julian is an innovator, lateral thinker and loves to teach skiing. He can be booked throughout the season in any ES resort.
Conor Tallon
Conor comes from small village called Bettsytown, 40km up the coast from Dublin. Conor started he ski career in Canada before heading to Mt Cheesman in New Zealand. After several back to back winters from New Zealand to Europe, Conor moved to Perhiser in Australia before settling last winter in Nendaz. Having now completed his level 3 ISIA stamp through IASI (Irish association of Snowsports instructors) he plans to make Nendaz his new home and has ambitions of becoming a Swiss Patente and trainer in the winters to come.
John Taylor
John is from Preston a small village in the north of England. He started skiing when he was 8 years old and returned to ski in Nendaz nearly every year since with his family. Being a ski instructor was always his dream job and is now living the dream travelling the world and seeing amazing places. He enjoys mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking and music however his main passion is skiing.
John’s best day skiing ever was a few years ago in Nendaz, it had snowed heavily the night before and my dad and I skied all day getting lost in the woods.
Neill Wilson
Neill is an encouraging skier who loves being part of the mini victories his guests achieve when skiing with him. From conquering the famous snow plough on their own to a top to bottom mogul run. Neill will get equally excited and strive to develop anyone’s skiing further.
Why did you choose to teach skiing?
I have always enjoyed coaching and learning new skills so I decided to get qualified! I haven’t looked back since!
What is your favourite restaurant in Zermatt?
For a relaxing break and great food, Blue Lounge is top of my list.
Where is your favourite part of Zermatt to ski?
In Zermatt my favourite place to go for a slide is the Schwarzsee area…although Furggsattel on a clear blue sky day is hard to beat. This question is too hard, next please.
What do you do in the summer?
I change what I do most summers, from roofing work to working in an opticians.
What top handy tip do you have for anyone visiting Zermatt?
We’re very high here and when it gets cold it can get very cold! There is no replacement for layered clothing, specific ski socks and ski gloves.
Why did you pick Zermatt?
There are many resorts but none quite like this one, Zermatt has a super comfortable vibe, great skiing, great food and a mountain that has been photographed more times than a new born baby.
Max Clavbo Pettersson
Max is commig back for an 8th winter in Zermatt. He can’t wait to teach the old and new clients, no matter the level, and to show you all the best lunch/coffee spots available in Zermatt and Cervinia. Book him for the ultimate Swedish Experience.
What is your favorite part of Zermatt to ski?
I enjoy cruising on Gornergrat with the wide easy slopes and go for Lunch In Alphitta.
Or in Cervinia and enjoy a great Italian lunch with all that comes with it.
What makes you special as an instructor?
Having soon taught half of my life soon and being able to teach in 4+languages, I think I have alot of experience and patience to adapt myself to all situations. And the 7 seasons done in Zermatt give me the homefield advantage of knowing the area insideout.