Montchavin: Skis, Passes and Lessons

Ski Hire, Lessons & Lift Passes.

Ski Hire

We usually hire our equipment from the Intersport shop in Montchavin, situated along the path from the bottom of the ski slope heading into Montchavin Village. They have always been very friendly and helpful, and will give a discount if you say that you are staying at Les Trois Glaciers.

Ski Lessons and Ski Guides

There are two ski schools in Montchavin: the ESF and Evolution. The ESF is by the bottom of the ski slope, and Evolution is at the top of the village. We have only used ESF, with mixed feelings as the instructors seldom speak good English, the classes are large, and the attitude to non-French speaking children has not always been ideal. We have heard good reports about Evolution.

Each the schools will hire out instructors for the day as guides. You often need to book well in advance and the prices can be very high. The Ski Club of Great Britain usually has a guide in La Plagne who will take groups for the day. It is free though you are expected to pay for there lunch.

We have discovered a local guide with whom you can book directly at very competitive rates (160 euros for the half day, 320 euros for the full day). His name is Bruno Charpiot (mobile 06 77 71 81 30). See the Off-Piste section for more details.

Lift Passes

Lift passes can be obtained in Montchavin Village in the main cobbled street. There are three main passes. The one for Montchavin-Les Coches covers a relatively small area and would only be appropriate for absolute beginners. The La Plagne ski pass covers all of La Plagne – more than enough for a weeks skiing. However, the advantage of Montchavin is the proximity to the Vanoise Express, a link between Les Arcs and La Plagne. You can either get a Paradiski pass for your whole stay or purchase a day supplement at the entrance of the Vanoise Express – worthwhile if only planning to go to Les Arcs once or twice.

The Paradiski pass also includes a day pass for Tignes, which can be accessed by Les Arcs.