FAQ
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When and how can i book?
We open bookings at the beginning of July for the upcoming winter season.
We recommend booking your lessons in advance, at least 15 days before your arrival, and by mid-January for the February school holidays, through one of the following methods:
For all bookings paid in full, a confirmation email will be sent to you — please print it at home and present it to the instructor on the first day of lessons. You do not need to go to the office, unless you have booked childcare or a lesson that includes lift passes.
We recommend booking your lessons in advance, at least 15 days before your arrival, and by mid-January for the February school holidays, through one of the following methods:
- Online on our website with full and secure credit card payment (by clicking on the small cart icons next to our prices).
- By mail using our booking forms, with payment by check, holiday vouchers, or sports coupons.
- By phone (contact us) with full credit card payment, outside peak periods.
For all bookings paid in full, a confirmation email will be sent to you — please print it at home and present it to the instructor on the first day of lessons. You do not need to go to the office, unless you have booked childcare or a lesson that includes lift passes.
What Should I Do If i can't find any lessons Available?
If you can't find any available lessons, please contact us as soon as possible so we can try to find a suitable solution together.
Which Meeting Point Should I Choose?
In Val Cenis, there are 4 lessons meeting points.
Generally, at least one is within walking distance of every residence. To choose the right one, refer to the map available at the top of each page on the esf website.
⚠️ Important: Some meeting points may fill up, especially close to February school holidays. If you can’t find your preferred point in the list, do not select a different one. Instead, contact us to check availability — otherwise, you might have to take the shuttle or drive to get to your lesson.
- If your residence is in Val Cenis–Lanslebourg
(e.g., MMV, Les Valmonts, CIS)
📍Near the "LA RAMASSE" chairlift
➡️ Choose the LANSLEBOURG meeting point
- If your residence is between Lanslebourg and Lanslevillard
(e.g., Les Alpages, Le Critérium, Chalets de Flambeau)
📍Near the "PRE NOVEL" chairlift
➡️ Choose the PLAN DES CHAMPS meeting point
- If your residence is in Val Cenis–Lanslevillard
📍Near the "LE COLOMBA" chairlift
➡️ Choose the LANSLEVILLARD meeting point
- If your residence is at the top of Lanslevillard
(e.g., VVF, Les Balcons, Miléade)
📍Near the Val Cenis Le Haut gondola
➡️ Choose the VAL CENIS LE HAUT meeting point
⚠️ Important: Some meeting points may fill up, especially close to February school holidays. If you can’t find your preferred point in the list, do not select a different one. Instead, contact us to check availability — otherwise, you might have to take the shuttle or drive to get to your lesson.
My Child Is Not Yet 3 Years Old — Can They Join the Piou Piou club Lessons?
The Club Piou Piou is intended for children who have already turned 3.
However, if your child is about to turn 3 within 2–4 weeks after your holiday, is potty trained, and is used to being in a group, we recommend booking a trial session on Sunday (reservation by phone only). If the first lesson goes well, you can then visit the esf office to book the rest of the week.
For younger children, the childcare centre is available and well-suited to their needs.
However, if your child is about to turn 3 within 2–4 weeks after your holiday, is potty trained, and is used to being in a group, we recommend booking a trial session on Sunday (reservation by phone only). If the first lesson goes well, you can then visit the esf office to book the rest of the week.
For younger children, the childcare centre is available and well-suited to their needs.
Should I Book Childcare Services in Advance?
Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during school holiday weeks. For 6 consecutive mornings or afternoons, you can book online. If there’s still availability, you may also book the day before for the next day directly at the esf offices.
DO i need a ski pass?
Yes — both children and adults need a lift pass. esf lessons do not include access to the ski lifts.
- Children under 5: lift pass is free. It must be collected at the lift ticket office with proof of age.
- "Ourson" & "Flocon" levels (ages 5 to 11) in group lessons: special discounted lift pass available, after you've added the ski lesson to your cart online or at esf offices in resort.
- Teen and adult beginners (never skied): it’s hard to know in advance if your group will use the lifts on the first day. We recommend waiting to buy your lift pass until you’ve confirmed with your instructor
do i need insurance?
Yes, because esf does not provide insurance for its students. If your lift pass does not include insurance, we strongly recommend purchasing the Carré Neige insurance — a specific policy that covers you in the event of accident or illness on the slopes. Available when purchasing your lift pass, either online (on the esf or Val Cenis website) or at esf or ski pass offices in resort.
What Language Are Group Lessons Taught In?
All of our instructors are French. Around 76 instructors can teach in English. Some also speak a little Italian. 5 instructors speak Dutch. When booking your group lessons, please select your preferred language so we can try to assign an instructor who speaks it. However, this is not always guaranteed, especially during busy periods.
For children, the language barrier is rarely an issue, as they learn quickly by watching and copying the instructor’s movements.
Is Equipment Included?
No, equipment is not provided — even for the youngest children. You must come to your lesson fully equipped. Please visit a local ski rental shop in the resort to rent skis, boots, helmets, etc. No ski poles are used for children up to the 2nd Star level.