Alpe d’Huez may not have the best snow record (due to its southern location), but it is excellent for beginners, and afterall beginners don’t always need the best snow conditions in which to learn. Known as the ‘island in the sun’ it is a fantastic resort for beginner ski holidays. Beginners lessons are held in two locations and adults have a choice between the two.

The first option is Le Grande Rousse, a free ski slope at the bottom of Le Signal Lift, only 10 minutes from the Alpine Elements Chalet Alaska .There is a free drag lift here. The beginners’ area for children is called Les Bergers, although adult beginners can ski here too. 10 minutes walk from Chalet Alaska via the free bus service or 15 via the Eclose Bergers lift. This is a great spot for beginners, with many gently rolling green runs leading back to the resort, but to take advantage of the skiing here you will have to pay for a local ‘Alpe d’Huez’ lift pass. There is also a free nursery slope at the top of the Eclose Bergers which is small and perfect for beginners.  After a couple of days lessons beginners can stay in Le Bergers, where you can continue to grow in confidence with a number of gentle greens. These are all accessible via Le Marmottes lift, getting off at the first stop.

Alternatively, adventurous beginners can get the ‘lobster pots’ to Le Grande Rousse ski area and try the gentle blue which starts at the first stop of the DMC cable car.