Frequently Asked Questions
Questions, answered plainly
Everything guests ask us before making their first request, grouped by topic so you can go straight to what matters to you.
About the service
How does the matching process actually work?
You tell us your level, dates, group and what matters to you. We select the instructor from our network who best fits your request, check their availability, then come back to you with a proposal and put you in touch once your booking is confirmed.
Can I request a specific instructor?
Yes — if you've skied with someone from our network before, mention their name in your enquiry and we'll check their availability first.
What if my group has mixed levels?
Tell us the full range. We can arrange one instructor experienced in mixed-level teaching, or coordinate separate instructors so the group can spend as much of the day together as possible.
Do you only cover Val d’Isère?
Our network covers Val d'Isère, Tignes, and the Tarentaise valley more broadly.
Can you help with accommodation too?
Yes. Alongside your instructor, we can help you choose the right chalet, apartment or hotel for your stay, based on your group and preferences.
Booking & payment
How far in advance should I book?
As early as possible for peak weeks such as Christmas, February half-term and Easter. Outside those periods, we can often confirm closer to your dates.
International powder trips are different: they are usually booked around a year in advance.
How does confirmation work?
Once we have your request and have established your instructor's availability, we'll confirm the details with you in writing. Your booking is confirmed once we receive your payment.
When do I pay?
Full payment is due within 15 days of your order, or within 3 days if you book less than 3 weeks before your lesson. In all cases, it must be received before the lesson starts.
Can I change my dates after booking?
No changes can be made within 10 days of the start. Any change request is treated as a cancellation followed by a new booking, so the cancellation scale applies and additional costs may apply.
Cancellations & weather
What’s your cancellation policy?
Cancellations must be made in writing. The refund depends on when we receive your request:
More than 8 weeks before the start: 90% refunded
Between 8 weeks and 21 days before the start: 50% refunded
Less than 21 days before the start: no refund
The scale applies whatever the reason, including illness or injury, unless it is force majeure, so we strongly recommend insurance such as Carré Neige. No-shows and late arrivals are non-refundable.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Cancellation on weather grounds alone isn't accepted, since most conditions are still skiable with the right terrain choice. Your instructor will adapt the day rather than cancel it. An exception is made only in cases of force majeure or a full closure of lifts across the sector.
Rates
How much does a private ski instructor cost in Val d’Isère?
Our private ski lessons in Val d'Isère and Tignes start from €325 for an afternoon 3h (2-5pm), €475 for a morning 4h (9-1pm) and €650 for a full day 8h (9-5pm). Rates vary with the period of the season.
Is the price per person or per instructor?
Per instructor. The rate is the same whether you ski alone or with your family or friends.
How many people can share one instructor?
There is no limit on the piste, as long as everyone skis at a similar level. Off-piste groups are limited to 5 people per instructor.
Why are the rates “from”?
Rates depend on the period: quieter weeks are less expensive than peak weeks such as Christmas, New Year and February half-term, and last-minute bookings during peak weeks may cost more. Your final rate is confirmed once we have matched you with the right instructor for your request. Heliski, multi-day itineraries and trips beyond Val d'Isère and Tignes are quoted separately.
Safety & equipment
Are your instructors qualified and insured?
Yes. Every instructor in our network holds the French State ski instructor qualification (Diplôme d'État) or a recognised equivalent, and our mountain guides are IFMGA-certified. All carry professional liability insurance in accordance with French regulations. It does not cover rescue costs, medical care, equipment or unused lift passes, so we strongly recommend taking out Carré neige insurance, available online or when you buy your lift pass.
Do you provide safety equipment for off-piste or touring?
Avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel, avalanche airbag) can be provided on request, subject to availability — let us know when you enquire so we can confirm ahead of your arrival.
Is off-piste or heliski suitable for any level?
It depends on the activity. For a first off-piste outing, you need to be confident on piste. For ski touring, no previous touring experience is needed for most itineraries, but you should be comfortable skiing off-piste and have good general fitness. For heliski, it depends on the drop point: many are accessible at a solid, comfortable level in variable snow, not only to experts.
