ESF vs BASS, prices, lesson types, and kids ski school — everything you need to book lessons for 2024/25.
Main Schools
The French national ski school — largest in Chamonix with the most instructors and lesson slots. Classes often in French but English-speaking instructors available on request. Largest class sizes but best availability in peak weeks.
| Lesson Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Group half-day | ~€55 |
| 5-day group course | ~€220 |
| Private (1 hour) | ~€80 |
| Kids 5-day school | ~€240 |
The go-to choice for English-speaking visitors. All instructors are native English speakers with BASI qualifications. Smaller class sizes than ESF, consistently rated higher for instruction quality. Book early — fills up in peak weeks.
| Lesson Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Group half-day | ~€60 |
| 5-day group course | ~€240 |
| Private (1 hour) | ~€90 |
| Kids 5-day school | ~€260 |
Lesson Types
Split by ability. Usually 6–10 people. Half-day (3hrs) or full day. Most economical — great for beginners and improvers.
One instructor, just you or your group. Progress faster, ski where you want. €60–120/hour. Transformative for intermediates.
Full-day childcare and instruction from age 3–4. Lunch included. ESF Piou-Piou is excellent for very young beginners.
Both schools offer snowboard instruction. Group and private options. Better suited to intermediate+ snowboarders given Chamonix's terrain.
Not a ski school product — for off-piste you need an IFMGA mountain guide. The Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix arranges guided powder days.
Peak weeks (Christmas, half-term): book 8–12 weeks ahead. January and March: 3–4 weeks. Last-minute peak availability is very limited.
FAQs