Why learn with us?

There are lots of ski schools in Val d’Isère to choose from.

Specialising in on-piste private lessons and off-piste guiding, here’s why we think you should book with us:

portrait of Simon McCombe in a dark ski jacket, goggles and with snowy peaks in the background

  • We are a small school committed to providing the highest levels of personal customer service and attention to detail.

  • We are privileged to have many repeat clients and their families joining us year after year.

  • Our team consists of instructors who are among the most highly qualified, experienced, skilled, and passionate about ski teaching and guiding in Val d’Isère.

  • Our instructors have brilliant communication skills, with all being either highly fluent or native English speakers.

  • Our instructors are highly rated for their patient, adaptable, supportive, and friendly teaching and guiding styles.

  • We have spent multiple seasons teaching and guiding in Val d’Isère, making us experts in finding the best snow and most suitable terrain for your lesson. This ensures the fastest learning and most enjoyable experience on the slopes.

Our reviews

  • Elevation Ski School logo

    “I have been taught by Simon for several years now and he is light years away from the "bend-ze-knees" merchants I had for so many years. He really understands the physics and dynamics of skiing and can get it all across in non-technical language. Whether you are a relative beginner or a budding instructor he will spot instantly what you need to do to move forward and can then explain it in as much or as little detail as you want. Above all, he loves skiing and he loves teaching it - and that shows. I could not recommend him more highly.”

    • Mark S

  • Elevation Ski School logo

    “James looked after my wife and I on consecutive days, and we both got considerable value from our time with him. We don't usually take private lessons but James had come recommended and I don't think either of us will ever go back to group lessons now! We both wanted different things from our lessons and James delivered in that respect. James was very patient, calm, helpful, clear in his instructions and his supreme knowledge of Val d'Isère ensured we got the best of our day too. We can thoroughly recommend James and expect to book him again next year."

    • Alistair & Janine

  • Elevation Ski School logo

    “After 20 or more years of skiing adventure on and off piste I decided it was time to properly learn how to do it. Most instructors were good and nudged me on a bit but it was always my personal battle against the mountain using strength, experience and force of will. I met Simon about fifteen years ago and now I can actually ski. Sure it is a work in progress but I’m transformed with always more to learn. In all the miles I’ve skied with Simon he has been a great instructor, coach and fantastic company. He has exactly the right input regardless of the situation. Patience when things aren’t clicking, challenge when things are improving and words to inspire confidence when that is what’s required. ”

    • Shaun F

  • Elevation Ski School logo

    “After being skiing a few times, but never having any lessons, I booked James for myself and my seven year old son for a week whilst in Val d’Isère. We instantly warmed to his kind and friendly nature and he made us both feel very comfortable. He showed great skill in managing the two of us, who were at different levels, and made our lessons fun. He showed patience and humour, which was needed at times believe me and my son trusted him to help him develop and learn, even when he was nervous at times. It was well worth having private lessons and was money well spent. We will be back for sure. Highly recommend!"

    • Sarah & Rafal