Ski Passes

Ski passes
Ski passes are an essential part of a skiing holiday, with a wide range of ski pass options available depending on which areas you plan to ski. Ski passes can be pre-booked before you arrive in your resort, along with ski equipment and lessons. Often there are discounts available and your tour operator may even deliver pre-booked ski passes to your accommodation on arrival, avoiding the hassle of queuing up. However, snow conditions, local prices and your skiing level should be taken into account before you decide to pre-book a ski pass. Therefore it is our advise to wait until you arrive before purchasing a ski pass.

 More information on Pre-booking ski passes

Ski passes - A variety of options
Although many resorts have free lifts for beginners, a ski pass is required to move freely around the mountains and fully explore the resort. Beginners are advised to purchase the most basic ski pass whilst they learn the ropes, offering the use of the lifts in a specific resort, and a chance to try all the runs as technique progresses. More competent skiers looking for more options generally make the most of the varied ski passes that offer unlimited access to a range of resorts and mountains, often known as super-passes. Some of the best in Europe include the Dolomites Superski Pass and the Three Valleys Ski Pass, both of which incorporate extensive terrain and a huge choice of runs.

Ski passes - Wide range of prices and options available
Ski passes are generally sold on a daily, 2-day, 3-day or weekly basis, offering 6 days skiing, with the latter offering the best value for money and being the most convenient. Mini-passes are also available for flexible half-day skiing options and, in most cases, ski passes are non-refundable and non-transferable. Family ski passes represent great value for money, and can offer considerable savings, with ski passes for children and OAP's also discounted (note that proof of age is required). Hands-free ski passes are becoming increasingly popular in many resorts, featuring an electronic chip holding all the relevant information, which can be scanned magnetically through the control points. This new form of ski pass is the size of a credit card, and can be kept in a pocket at all times.