Chamonix has a great choice of learner slopes and is a super place to begin skiing or snowboarding. The lower slopes have snowmakers to keep the conditions good, and there’s a wide choice of ski schools. See ski schools info here.
The areas:
Two drag lifts at the foot of Brevent, with a free magic carpet lift as well. It’s about the gentlest of the areas, so ideal for total beginners. There’s a good snack bar.
Right in town, near the Montenvers railway station, Les Planards has not only drag lifts but also a chair lift making it a very good place for snowboarders.
As it’s got a wide variety of runs — green, blue and red — it’s ideal for larger groups and those who are progressing fast. Nice restaurant too, though it’s so close to Chamonix that you can easily eat in town if you prefer. Can be a bit cold so not ideal for tinies.
A sunny slope under the shelter of Les Grands Montets, Les Chosalets has two drag lifts and a nice open green run, ideal for the first steps before tackling the big one! It also has a snow playground for younger children. Evolution2’s Panda Club is based here
At the base of Le Tour, there are the three drag lifts of the Vormaine learner slopes, which give access to a lovely, and very large, open area. Ideal for learning in stunning surroundings — this is surely one of the most scenic nursery slopes in the Alps, and usually has the best snow of all the learner areas as it’s the highest. Also has a pleasant snack bar.
