Verbier

Aurélie Garcin – private chef on the water

18 June 2025 by Laura Shadbolt

Aurélie is a ski and snowboard instructor with with ES in Verbier in the winters, and here she tells us about her summers, as a private chef on a 30m motor yacht in the Med.

End of winter = start of summer

Straight talking and full of energy, Aurélie goes direct from her winter season in Verbier at the end of April to the South of France to start her summer season. There she works as a private chef on a Riva 30m motor yacht through to the end of November. The boat was built in 2023 and has 4 ensuite cabins for up to 8 guests. It also has lots of toys including stand up paddles, waterskis, and a jetski.

Travels in the Med

As one of 4 crew, Aurélie is responsible for planning, stocking, and preparing menus based on guest wishes. And of course, she cooks for guests during charters, and for the yacht’s owner when they are on board. She also helps with service, and docking the boat when they arrive in port.

Already this summer she has visited the Cannes film festival and the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix. At the time of writing, she is in Porto Vecchio on the South East coast of Corsica, about to cross to Porto Cervo in Northern Sardinia.

What is it like cooking on a private yacht?

Charters can be anything from 2 days to 3 weeks, so Aurélie needs to keep menus fresh and interesting, and be attentive to guests’ requests and preferences. On a recent charter, she was serving “anti-hangover” burgers at 5am each morning, after guests returned from their nights out.

At other times, she might be asked for detox menus, gluten free, or other specialist requirements. With a certificate in dietetics, Aurélie understands the science of good nutrition to help maintain and promote health.

Aurélie used to work on larger yachts, but she finds that on a 30m yacht with smaller crew, she not only cooks, but also helps with manoeuvres, and interacts more with the guests. This means she can do things like show guests the best snorkelling spots and (sometimes) teach them how to jump from the flybridge.

Overall, Aurelie prefers to prepare modern, sophisticated and healthy menus. She favours market cuisine with local products and likes to integrate interesting textures and subtle flavours. As she is from the South of France, her roots are in French cuisine, however she also loves Italian, Lebanese, Thai Nikkey and Japanese cuisine. Drawing on her travels, her cooking has fusion influences.

In the past, Aurélie has worked extensively on both motor and sailing yachts, as well as being a land based private chef in Megève, Courchevel, Méribel, Cannes, Mougins, St Tropez and St Jean Cap Ferret. Outside Europe, she has also travelled and worked in New Zealand and Byron Bay, Australia.

In the winters

As for the winters, Aurélie is a former pro snowboarder (freestyle/freeride). As a young child, she started skiing, then snowboarding, and as a teenager followed her dream to compete in snowboard events. After becoming a sponsored rider, she was then able to travel the world competing and shooting videos.

Now based in Verbier in the winters, Aurélie teaches skiing as well as snowboarding. She speaks French, Spanish and English.

Even though she was born in Cannes on the French Riviera, Aurelie started skiing at 2 and snowboarding at 8. At 14 her love of the mountain was so strong she only dreamt of being a pro rider. At 18 she moved to the Mecque and starts racing for Chamonix snowboard club, then got sponsored, traveled the Alps, Canada, Argentina, New Zealand …either for competing or shooting videos. When she retired, in order to stay close to her passion, she decided to transmit her love of the mountain and her knowledge through teaching.

Aurélie’s clients say; “I had the great fortune skiing with Aurelie – she is an incredibly attentive instructor, pays great attention to detail, is untiring in thinking of new ways to clarify what’s needed. In addition, she’s a source of knowledge about skiing and about Verbier and simply great fun to be with! Anyone who gets to ski with Aurelie is in for a treat!”

Ski Touring – Sustainable choices

31 March 2025 by Laura Shadbolt

What is Ski Touring?

Ski touring is going up the mountain on your skis before you go back down. You climb up using “skins” which attach to the underside of your skis. Originally these were made of sealskin. The fur of the seal points down and enables your skis to grip the snow as you walk up. Then at the top of the mountain you take off the skins and ski down. Just to reassure you, the skins are now synthetic and no seals are needed.

To help walking up the mountain, ski touring bindings have a detachable heel for while you are climbing. Your ski boot remains attached at the toe, and the heel is free to move as you walk. The bottom part of the heel piece can be adjusted depending on the steepness. Then at the top you attach the heel again so that you can ski down as in a normal binding.

Usually ski touring skis are lighter than alpine skis, so that the walk up is easier. This means they have less performance than an alpine ski, but are easier to go up with.

With ski touring, the fun of the sport is seeking the untouched snow. The appeal of this low-impact activity is the challenging walk up and the isolated un-pisted ski down.

There is something about touring that really gets you up close to the mountains. Touring gives you a deeper appreciation for the landscape we are privileged enough to have access to. By touring up to hidden areas, not only can you really earn your ski down, but the ski itself is a lot more rewarding when the snow is completely untracked and all for you!

Why is it sustainable?

For an industry that that relies heavily on good snow conditions, it is becoming increasingly important that we do our bit to preserve the long winters. With Glaciers melting at an alarming rate, and spring emerging earlier each year, what can we do to reduce our impact to keep our cherished winters, whilst still enjoying alpine tourism and the sports that we love?

Not just for the industry, it is important we can do what’s possible to slow the rate of climate change. One way we can do this is by embracing ski touring – not only a fun activity, but a crucial way we can help reduce our carbon footprint.

It goes without saying that ski touring is one of the most sustainable ways you can enjoy the mountains, relying solely on you own strength to get you up. The biggest users of energy in ski resorts are the ski lifts and the fuel required to run the SnowCats that groom the slopes. Although many resorts are making the switch to hybrid or electric groomers, the fact remains that they are still high users of energy.

With the warming weather, many resorts also rely on artificial snow to keep the trails topped up and the winters extended for as long as possible. Snowmaking has a self-destructing element, as in order to keep the snow coming, it has to rely on energy intensive machinery. Although this is a good short-term solution to allow people to keep skiing even without natural snowfall, there is a Catch 22 element here.

Ski Touring Technology

Once, the equipment involved in ski touring was bulky and heavy, putting many people off. However big improvements have been made recently. Here are just a few examples;

Bindings – Nowadays, you are able to find a range of bindings for touring skis depending on your preference. Pin bindings are the most lightweight bindings, not adding any extra weight that is needed to ski touring and making the walk up considerably easier. These bindings are designed with simplicity in mind, adding no extra bulk, and ensuring a smooth, effortless climb. Alternatively, Duke PT bindings, are a good hybrid option offering the best of both worlds. You can enjoy a lightweight binding for your ski up, and a high performance, more secure binding for your ski down too, looking just like regular ski bindings from the outside.

Boots- Hybrid touring boots are also a great option for skiers who do not want to buy or travel with multiple boots. You are able to enjoy all the technology of touring boots with the boots in walk mode for your ascent, whilst still enjoying the stiffness of the boots for the ski down or your regular alpine skiing.

Clothing

Apparel– Many ski wear brands now cater to the tourers of the mountains. Jackets and trousers are lightweight, easy to carry and offer full range of motion. Unlike some ski jackets which are designed for maximum warmth, shells are thin, breathable and equipped with large vents. The vents are a great way to allow tourers to fully regulate their body temperature. Some even come with pocket specifically designed for holding avalanche transceivers, making carrying them more comfortable and non-invasive.

We are big fans of Black Diamond kit. Black Diamond have supplied our instructor uniforms for years now and provide waterproof and windproof lightweight breathable solutions with big pockets. Big pockets are essential for all those extras your instructors need to have, like their first aid kit, spare buffs, tissues…

Avalanche gear

Avalanche gear- Whilst ski touring offers freedom and beautiful views, it cannot be forgotten that there are dangers on mountain. For this reason, carrying avalanche safety equipment is vital for ski touring outside the slopes. Avalanche gear stripped down includes a shovel, probe and transceiver, but depending on your expertise and risk taken, more can be added. For those who take on more challenging and remote terrain, additional safety equipment such as airbags can provide extra protection. This gear now is more lightweight than ever, making it much easier to carry in a backpack.

The most lightweight avalanche safety gear you can take with you, though, is knowledge. So, ensure you are aware of the risks you are taking and what you can do to reduce them.

See more about our off piste lessons here.

How do I get involved?

Ski touring can seem daunting to begin with, especially with the idea of heading off to an isolated area of the mountain. The beauty of ski touring, though, is you can definitely start small. There are many trails you can take in Zermatt and Verbier alike which are beginner friendly. Many rental shops offer touring gear, and you can begin by touring along the side of trails.

See our partners at Mountain Air in Verbier for good advice and a good selection of gear.

Getting away from the crowds isn’t only reserved to those going to isolated areas, the easiest way to get the slopes to yourself is to hike up early in the morning to catch the sunrise. That way you can enjoy the freshly groomed corduroy before everyone else, all from the safety of the controlled pistes.

If you are looking for more of an adventure, or simply someone who knows the mountain like the back of their hand, you can get a lesson in touring with one of our Brevet qualified instructors.

Already a seasoned ski tourer? Check out the Patrouille des Glaciers, a ski touring race from Zermatt to Verbier that runs every 2 years. You can see a short video on our instructors competing here

Sustainability tips

Although Ski touring is more eco-friendly option than taking chair lifts, here are some more ideas to reduce your impact. Use reusable water bottles as opposed to plastic ones, take all your litter with you, take the train to resort. You can also find ski clothes made from recycled materials or second hand.

See our partners at Cirkel Supply Co for clothing rentals.

Remember, although touring offers you the opportunity to find secluded spots, make sure you stay outside of protected areas. Birds, Ibexes, Chamois and marmots all need their space, so areas are cordoned off for their protection. Respecting these areas is vital to ensure the wildlife are still able to thrive.

See here for more information about our Swisstainable classification and here for more about snow shoe and nordic skiing.

European Snowsport offers private lessons for ski touring.

To book a lesson, just contact us here. We will be happy to help you enjoy the mountains even more.

Zoe Pfaller

Why we keep coming back to Verbier

30 March 2025 by Patricia Scholtz

Tamsin Roberts

We ’d just come out of lockdown after the pandemic when I had a chance conversation with a friend about holidays. They’re a precious commodity and can be lengthy research projects with hours spent searching for that ideal place. With 3 children in tow and little time to breathe I was (and still am) firmly in the recommendation camp. And this is how we ended up in Verbier – a tip off from a seasoned skier friend who said ‘stay near Place Central and put your kids in European Snowsport Ski school– it’s the best. You might even have a break’

Sold. The following month we were off to Verbier.

First day of Kids Academy

There were some excited nerves on day 1 as the children gathered in Place Blanche eagerly waiting to meet the instructors. They were 6,10 and 12, all 3 beginners and eager to get on the slopes. The eldest was the most concerned, worried she was too old for the class and asked why we hadn’t taken them as toddlers. This would have made things much less embarrassing apparently.

However, any fears or nerves evaporated instantly as soon as they met the instructors. Kate, leader of the kids lessons greeted us with smiles and warmth and any inhibitions were quickly forgotten. ‘See you at 4.30’ Kate said. Yes, we had gone all in and opted for full day lessons. With big smiles and waves off they went to the Medran lift, to begin their ski journey.

To think we had a whole day ahead of us seemed like a luxury. The lazy lunch and vin chaud stops top of the list. To decide where to start and to study the piste map we had a coffee in the cafe by the ski school meeting point. A cool, Scandi style coffee shop right in the middle of an uber trendy shop Mountain Air, alongside the ski rental and storage. So convenient was this set up I wondered how we’d hit on such a great place.

As we started to get boots on, I heard little voice in my head reminding me how I hadn’t skied for a few years, be careful of the steep slopes, don’t go too fast you might break a leg. Yikes. Whether it was a few years off skiing due to covid or maybe just a ‘mummy thing’ I realised I was frightened. There was only one thing for it – get a lesson and get a grip.

I didn’t need to look far for help. ES is right there, in the middle of Mountain Air (just by the nail bar and barber of course – mental note taken for any non-ski days.)

My lesson

The instructor was paired to my ski level with all my needs carefully relayed so they could find the best person for me, to maximise my time. One step towards combatting my fear. So off I trot to Medran lift for my own private lesson. To get my ski legs back. I asked my husband where he might ski on his own – ‘undecided, another espresso first’. It really was starting to feel a lot like a holiday.

To say the children had a great time that week is an understatement. The Kate we met on the first day was now their idol. She got our kids from spaghetti legs beginners to skiing the mountain. She is a brilliant instructor who can keep the most energetic children focused and safe whilst making it fun at the same time. I worried the days would be too long for them. I needn’t have. They came back every day full of smiles, never wanting it to end.

For myself, calm and patient Mattia was perfect for my needs. He reassured me I could ski and got my technique back on track. After listening politely to my stories of losing confidence since having children, he took me down a steep red so I could prove to myself I could still do it. He read me perfectly.

Turns out after the second espresso spurred on my husband to take a boarding lesson. He hopped from cafe to barber to book the lesson. And raved about it at dinner. Turns out I wasn’t the only one who needed to get their ski mojo back.

It was quite simply the best family holiday we’ve had. The goodbyes and thank yous to the instructors were filled with hugs and talk of maybe coming back next year.

Coming back to Verbier

When next year arrived there wasn’t really a discussion – it would be back to Verbier because happy kids equals happy parents. The second year did not disappoint. There was wonderful Kate again and Oscar and Petra this time, 2 delightful Swedes with impeccable English, bags of patience and a good sense of humour.

The third year of return was getting embarrassing. Whereas I wouldn’t class myself as a creature of habit here we were back in Verbier and full day lessons at ES. I didn’t need to remind myself why – the classes are small (max 6), all the instructors are English speaking ( the Swedes have better English than many of us native speakers ) and the teaching is first class. And the proof was in the pudding – by the end of year 3 the children are carving.

As for myself I enjoyed lessons with Benito and Neal among others. Once again all instructors tailored lessons to my needs – the lack of confidence disappearing and the paralleling reappearing.

Just before Christmas was our 4th year. No longer embarrassed but now proud to know what works for our family dynamic. The older 2 dropped to half days to ski with us, only to promptly rebook on the afternoon. Turns out its way more fun and they covered much more piste on and off than with their parents.

On our last day this year it was the 10 year old who took us to the 4 vallees and told us which slopes to ski and where had the best view, How did he know ‘because I’ve been with Kate’. And boy was he right – we had the best day!

So, its not its ranking as one of the best ski resorts in Europe or its chocolate box beauty or even the chance to glimpse a Royal or two. No, what keeps us coming back to Verbier is the ES Ski and Snowboard school and its wonderful team of instructors. Bring on a fifth year.

Tamsin Roberts

Our Favourite Runs to Snowboard in Verbier

13 March 2025 by Patricia Scholtz

As Verbier seasonnaires, our sales and bookings team have spent a lot of time exploring the resort with their snowboards. Here, they share their pick of the best snowboard runs in Verbier and the 4 Vallées. Martina and Camille have chosen a range of their favourite runs to snowboard in Verbier to share, with different levels of difficulty. We know there are those days when you just want to carve on the groomers, as well as days when you want to explore the steep and challenging itineraries that Verbier is famous for.

If you are looking to improve your riding, at ES, we offer private snowboard lessons.

Here, Martina and Camille share their personal recommendations;

The Snowboarder’s Playground: Verbier Snowpark

As a snowboarder, there’s something magical about finding that perfect spot where you can push your limits, practice your skills, and just have fun. For me, that place is the Verbier Snowpark, located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Known for its stunning views, world-class terrain, and unparalleled snow conditions, Verbier is a dream come true for every rider.

It is divided into multiple sections, to give opportunity to everyone with their ability. The beginner area offers smooth theme, perfect for those just starting to experiment with tricks, while the advanced section is loaded with larger jumps, rails, and creative setups that challenge even the most experienced riders. From boxes to kickers, the Snowpark gives riders the chance to session all day long, with different challenges to keep things exciting.

If I ask any of my snowboarding friends what to do on a nice day, the answer is probably to go to the park to shred.

I love Verbier snowboarder community because you will often find local pros and passionate riders sharing the same space, offering tips, laughs, and a mutual appreciation for snowboarding.

Verbier Snowpark is a place where snowboarders can truly shine. Whether you’re beginner or pro, Verbier offers an incredible environment to take your snowboarding to the next level.

If would like to learn some tricks from one of our snowboard pro’s, you can book a lesson here.

Gentianes

My second favourite area in Verbier is the Gentianes slope. This slope is one of the longest one in Verbier. This means that you can access multiple terrains, all connected by a comprehensive lift system. Jumbo is one of them, which is a big favourite with tourists. It takes approximately 10 minutes to go up, meanwhile you can check the breathtaking view. However, it’s the Gentianes sector that stands out, offering both wide-open, high-speed runs and challenging off-piste areas for riders seeking adventure.

For the more experienced snowboarder, Gentianes provides steep and wide runs and you can enjoy some serious speed. Gentianes area is famous for its challenging terrain, catering to advanced and expert snowboarders who crave adrenaline. The slopes here are not only steep and technical but also offer a sense of freedom.

One of the most exciting aspects of Gentianes is the view. From the top of the slopes, you get a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding peaks.

FIS Inférieure

In my opinion this slope is about steepness, challenging and varied terrain which will test all of your riding skills. Conquering this trail is unique, making it a must for any advanced snowboarder looking for as an experience. Whether you are carving the steep slopes or navigating the moguls, this trail offers unforgettable thrills at every turn. This slope starts straight down from Attelas, passes Ruinettes and finishing at Carrefour. Absolutely one of my favourite slope which, besides its steepness, is famous for its length.

The difference between FIS and any other famous Verbier slopes that it has relatively quieter atmosphere. FIS Inférieure is a black run that is ideal for snowboarders who want to step out from their comfort zone. It’s a little more laid back and less crowded, perfect for those who want to avoid the busy, high-traffic areas.

FIS is certainly not a beginner’s run, but if you are an advanced snowboarder looking for a challenge with a variety of terrain features, this is a slope that deserves your attention. It is ideal for riders who want to test their skills with slightly less intense crowds, offering a chance to carve, jump, and navigate your way through diverse conditions.

Martina

Grands Creux – Cabane – La Chaux

This combination of runs offer a variety of surroundings. First, and although it is a short run, Grands Creux is a little gem offering the chance to take a big breath of fresh air while riding gentle rollers. It is surrounded by steep cliffs on one side, and a big open space on the other, where you can catch sight of the Petit and Grand Combin. It is the kind of place where one can reminds oneself that we are so tiny amongst the mountains!

After this, the brief ride on Cabane is a good way to practice your buttering skills. It is a flat and wide enough to allow oneself a play with one’s snowboard, or just slide down and enjoy this freeing sensation of riding.

The last part in the open blue La Chaux part. It is steep and wide enough to build enough speed for a little bit of carving and feeling the edges of your snowboard slicing the snow in two. There is also a great area to have a play with the edges of the slope, to send a little jump here and there and enjoy the sensation of the snowboard take off the ground for a few seconds.

The lift La Chaux 2 is the way to get there. When exiting the lift, turn right and then head towards the tall rock that is lonely in the middle of the slopes. No need to strap the second binding, a little walk up is necessary here to get up the tiny hill.

Just be aware

Just be careful to slow right down as you approach the bottom lift, La Chaux 2; this is the proposed SLOW ZONE. We are supporting this initiative so that beginners and children can feel safe while learning in this beautiful part of the mountains.

You can check our favorite runs in the interactive ski map.

Les Otanes

Located on the other side of the valley, this itinerary (or yellow slope, meaning a controlled but not groomed slope) allows a lot of playfulness. It is located in Bruson, a great place to escape the often bustling vibe of Verbier, and which offers a more village-like atmosphere.

The first part is flat, where one may have to undo one biding or two, but this is a great excuse to enjoy the peaceful and serene scenery of the area, and immerse oneself in this special place. After this, a playground unfolds: in this forest, one moves between trees and bumps to make their way down the hill, in this area where silence is golden. Despite the fat it is a bumpy area, the is enough space to go through with a snowboard and get that whole body moving. It ends up at the top of Moay, which finished itself by two other lifts, to just go back up and do it again!

It is accessible from the top of Pasay. After enjoying the comfort of this lift, turn tight and look for the (slightly hidden) yellow poles, located above the hut marking the start of the black Pasay slope.

Les Otanes is featured in our Big 5 Challenge day, see here for more information.

Gentianes – Tortin

Now it is time to get a little bit higher in altitude. Starting at 2894 meters high, a challenging itinerary dives down into the valley to land in Tortin. It boasts moguls, jumps, speed and adventure, meaning a lot of options to work on one’s technique and extend one’s comfort zone. The run is wide and steep in some places, and sometimes a bit narrower, and its second section offer a long and flat part where it is best to build up a lot of speed beforehand to avoid having to push. Then the last part offers rolls and another flat area, a great way to cool down after the demanding bumps.

To get there, simply take Jumbo or Tortin-Col des Gentianes, head towards the pancake lift, and after the descent, the first yellow poles will appear straight ahead.

If you would like some help with your skills to access these areas, contact us here.

Camille

Summing up….

To sum up if you are a real shredder Snowpark definitely will be your playground where you can stop by any time between your rides. Ideally, I would say the morning hours are best for some jumps or tricks, but if you’re looking for tips, you’ll come across some top guns in the afternoon. Gentianes is perfect for its long and wide slopes so if you have little time just for one ride between your work shift, this is absolutely the best. Otherwise if you would like to gain some new technique and speed and avoid crowds, FIS is the choice. These are our favourite runs to snowboard in Verbier, but there is so much choice, you can find your own!

Martina Barczi and Camille Potti

Discover Better Skiing with the Ski Club of Great Britain

5 December 2024 by Laura Shadbolt

The Ski Club of Great Britain is the world’s oldest and largest snow sports organisation with 17,000 members and counting. For more than 120 years the club has been connecting passionate skiers and mountain enthusiasts. Now, a new collaboration with European Snowsport makes booking premium, private ski lessons easier than ever before.

What does it mean to be a Ski Club of Great Britain member?

Joining the Ski Club means you’ll access a wide range of exclusive benefits. Make the most of the significant savings with members-only discounts, and ski with confidence knowing you’re covered by comprehensive ski insurance.

Whether you’re looking for expertly crafted Freshtracks holidays tailored to your ability or want to connect with fellow skiers through the renowned Ski Club Rep service, we have something for every type of skier : ES can provide lessons for all, from the hesitant mum to the ambitious explorer (see Big Five challenge)

Become a member today and discover better skiing with the Ski Club of Great Britain.

Exclusive Ski Discounts

The Ski Club partners with industry specialists to provide members with the most exclusive discounts on the market, from apparel sites to travel agents. Members save significantly with our partnerships every year. Families, in particular, save hundreds by covering every aspect of their trip, from accommodation, transfers, equipment, and kit. Receive big savings from Snow + Rock, Ski Set, Bollé, Skiworld, Skiset, and many more.

Comprehensive Premium Travel Insurance

Ski Club’s Platinum Membership includes comprehensive travel insurance engineered by skiers, for skiers. With up to 60 days of winter sports cover per year including off-piste, without a guide, and outside resort boundaries as standard on all policies. The year-round cover keeps you well-looked after for the summer holidays too, so there’s no need to take out a secondary insurance!

Ski Club Freshtracks Holidays

The Ski Club’s Freshtracks holidays are curated to provide members with incredible experiences on and off the mountain. More than 85% of those who book a Freshtracks holiday return year after year to enjoy some of the world’s best skiing destinations.

Explore the mountains like never before, from adventurous cat skiing to easy-going ski-and-sip safaris. The team is on hand to find the best fitting holiday for your needs, whether it’s technical progression trips or simply exploring a new region.

Unique Rep Service

Ski Club Reps are the face of the club in Europe and North America. They share local insights both on and off the slopes, helping members connect with one another, and encouraging them to explore the region together, often accompanied by local instructors . They’ve got your social calendar covered. Lunch meetups? Check. Après-ski extravaganzas? You’ve got it!

Ski Club Magazine

Keep up to date with the UK’s oldest and most established ski magazine. The Ski Club magazine publishes innovative ski stories from around the globe, provides key information about resorts, and keeps members up to speed with the newest kit technology. Members will receive four issues a year to fuel their passion throughout the seasons.

Find out more about the Ski Club of Great Britain and become a member today

5 Reasons Combining Skiing and Play Works for Under 6’s

8 November 2024 by Laura Shadbolt

If you’re hitting the slopes with little ones, or any holiday for that matter- you know it’s all about balance: making sure children are having fun and get enough downtime – and that goes for parents too! It should feel like a holiday for everyone.

That’s exactly why ES Penguins and Petit Verbier’s After Ski Kids Club teamed up in 2012 and have been making holidays magical for hundreds of families over the past 12 years. At Petit Verbier, we provide nannies to children of all ages, rent out equipment and run our After Ski Kids Club in partnership with European Snowsport. Here’s why this approach not only works but actually enhances the ski experience for young kids (and makes it easier for parents too!).

1. Keeping Skiing Fun with Outdoor Play

At Petit Verbier, we create a setting where kids can still be outdoors in the afternoon and continue the mountain fun, but add in other activities, creativity and play. Learning to ski should always be exciting and enjoyable—especially for young skiers. By following skiing in the morning with other outdoor activities in the afternoon, kids remain engaged and experience being in the mountains and snow, without becoming overly tired, and skiing is something to look forward to the next morning.

We pick up children from Ski School, head to our base for lunch indoors and then our afternoon activities are primarily outdoors, followed by a snack and creative activity or storytime at our base to finish the day. We strongly believe that being in nature is wonderful for children and love to get outdoors as much as possible.

2. The Right Balance of Activity and Downtime

The ES Penguins team are brilliant at teaching young children. Their instructors know all about teaching little ones to ski, how they learn and making sure they have the right combination of ski time and breaks. We also know that for young kids, skiing is thrilling but can be a lot to take on! Which is why the penguins groups run from 9.30am-12.30pm, as it’s really hard for under 6s to concentrate on learning a new skill for the full day.

Our After Ski Kids Club is designed to fit perfectly with ski school, no need to race down the mountain for pick up time- we’ve got it covered! So by the time you come to pick up your little one at 4pm they have had a full morning of skiing and an afternoon of activities and the downtime they need. We understand energy levels vary at this age. With skiing lessons in the morning, children can then wind down with us in the afternoon, enjoying a mix of gentle activities that let them recharge without being overstimulated.

3. Encouraging Love for the Outdoors Beyond Skiing

Spending time outside, in nature, and away from screens is a big part of our philosophy at Petit Verbier. After ski lessons, kids join our team for activities that allow them to keep exploring the mountain environment in different ways—from sledging and snow play to treasure hunts in the forest. It’s an approach that lets them form a lasting connection with the mountains and leaves them excited to return each day.

We tailor our plans according to the weather and have a whole host of activities up our sleeve that incorporate play, movement, creativity and exploring the resort. Your little one will probably end up seeing more of the town than you and letting you know which bus to take to get to Medran!

4. Your Kids will have a Fantastic Day like this

Mornings kick off with ES Penguins instructors, where kids get their fill of skiing basics and snow fun. After their lessons, our club leader will pick the children up and head back to our base for a hot two course lunch. We have an afternoon snack time and offer a variety of food including fruit and veggies.

While we love for kids to continue exploring the outdoors, we also integrate rest and quieter activities so they have time to relax. Some typical activities might include:

Snow Play: Building snowmen, tobogganing, and snow painting to keep the winter fun going.
Creative Crafts: Indoor crafts or simple group games for those needing a break from the cold.
Story Time and Quiet Play: A cozy corner where kids can listen to stories or play calmly, allowing them to recharge after an active morning.
Themed days and Dance Parties: We love to incorporate themes, as well as movement and dancing so don’t be alarmed if you come to pick up your little ones and we are busy singing and dancing our hearts out and playing musical statues.

We create a flexible structure that adapts to the needs of each group. Whether they need more time to burn energy or a few more quiet moments, we are ready to make the afternoon exactly what each child needs.

5. Personalized Care and Dedicated Club Leader

We know that building trust is crucial, especially for this age group. Our After Ski Kids Club is led by experienced, child-centered team members who get to know each child individually. Families have the chance to meet the club leader at the beginning of the week, giving parents peace of mind and letting the kids know who will be picking them up after ski school. Plus, our team are available for babysitting if parents want a little extra time on the slopes or a night out. Just get in touch with us at Petit Verbier to book, we always aim for as much consistency as possible so if our kids club leaders are available then we’ll allocate someone your child knows to your booking. We also have nannies available for mornings for younger children if you need the full day covered!

Join Us for a Winter of Fun!

Our partnership with ES Penguins promises an engaging ski holiday which we know the children love- we’ve witnessed the smiles on their faces year after year. The ES Penguins & Petit Verbier After-Ski Kids Club creates a seamless experience for families looking for that perfect mix of activity, fun, and rest for their children, all under the care of experienced professionals. Our team are fully insured, first aid trained, reference checked, police checked, highly experienced and of course love caring for children.

Feel free to reach out to book or to ask any questions about how we can make your family ski holiday the best it can be!

Booking Enquiry