Together with Marie Stenmalm, Ski School Director in Lindvallen/Högfjället we have gathered some simple tips for your ski holiday to the mountains.
Book accommodation early
Whether you are a returning visitor or visiting the ski resort for the first time, it is always good to book your accommodation well in advance. Simply to ensure you find the accommodation that suits you and your group best.
SkiStar offers a number of options for accommodation such as comfortable mountain cabins both near the slopes or slightly further away, for those of you who prefer a bit of piece and quiet, or why not a luxury hotel where everything is included, individual apartments for smaller groups or larger and more modern mountain chalets. Take your time when booking your accommodation – just to make sure you get what you want.
Pre-plan and save time
Pre-book additional extras such as your SkiPass, and load it online so you avoid having to queue on site. If you are planning to use the ski school, we recommend that you pre-book this online too. There is a greater chance that you will get the place and time that suit you. If you are going to hire equipment, we also recommend that you pre-book this online, as collection will be quicker and it is cheaper than when you arrange hire on site.
Ski school
Whether you are new to skiing, or an experienced skier, the ski school is a top tip if you want to improve your skiing. Simple, small tips can make a great difference and make your week so much better and more fun. Choose between group ski school or private lessons. For children, it is often better to choose group ski school. The ski school provides great conditions for children learning to ski and creates a life-long interest in winter sports. They have fun in the snow together with other children in their own age group.
Private lessons
Private lessons mean you have the full attention of the instructor, the lesson is tailored to your needs. You decide when, where and how. Let a professional help make your winter week more fun. It is not possible to ski without getting tired legs.
Hire equipment
If you want to be sure that you always ski using the latest equipment, freshly waxed and in the best condition, then you need to hire your ski and snowboard equipment.
Dress correctly
Dress according to the layers principle. This means that you dress in several layers that both provide warmth and wick moisture away from the skin.
Avoid cotton. Cotton absorbs moisture, which cools you down instead of transporting moisture away from the body.
Layer 1: Base layer. A base layer consists of thermal leggings and a compression top. If you want a warmer base layer, then choose one in wool, most base layers are normally made from polyester.
Layer 2: Mid layer in fleece or wool. Do you get cold easily? Invest in a warmer material, such as merino wool.
Layer 3: Outer layer. Certain styles are lined and keep you warm, while others only work as an outer shell. If yours fits into the latter category, you can use slightly warmer clothing for layers one and two. Choose clothing that is both wind and waterproof.
Headwear
Helmet – of course! This protects as well as keeping you perfectly warm, even without a hat underneath. Do not assume that everyone skies as well as you. If you are involved in an accident on the slopes, wearing a helmet can be of great benefit.
In windy weather
Stay below the tree-line, it will be even windier at the top of the mountain. It is a good idea to avoid the chair lifts and use the drag lifts instead, then you can jump off when the trees end.
Happy children, content parents
Plan you skiing day according to your children's needs and wishes. It is important to find the right slopes so that both you and your children feel comfortable. You can do your own skiing later. If you also want to take the opportunity to do a little skiing of your own, child care is available in all our ski resorts.
Marie's top three tips for becoming a better skier
- The old classic "weight on the downhill ski" is actually true. Try to always keep your weight on the outside ski through the whole turn.
- Stand in the middle of the ski, so you are pushing forwards. If you lean back, you have less control.
- Take a ski lesson. All skiers are different. If you want to improve, a ski instructor can give you tips on what you specifically need to think about and practice.