From beginner to expert – The best ski courses in Grindelwald

Few experiences can compare to darting down a freshly powdered ski slope, fresh Alpine air whistling past you, as you gaze up at three of the most iconic peaks in the Bernese Overland.

Skiing in the Jungfrau region should be high on any winter sport lover’s bucket list. Not only does the area have a diverse range of slopes catering to all experience levels, but also ample opportunity to learn from top ski instructors. Whether you’re an intermediate looking to top up your skills, or a complete beginner, this is the place to invest in your abilities.

For those looking for the ultimate Bernese ski holiday, the charming mountain village of Grindelwald is an ideal base.

Conveniently located near three of Switzerland’s finest ski resorts, Grindelwald provides unrivaled access to more than 200km of downhill piste runs, and ski lifts soaring as high as 2,950m. 

This prime location has secured Grindelwald’s reputation as a haven for skiers, and millions of tourists flock here every year to experience its Alpine charm.

Perched at the foot of the notorious Eiger North Face, its chalet lined streets buzz with life. Home to more than 60 restaurants and a host of lively nightspots, the Apres Ski in Grindelwald is second to none.

Grindelwald-Wengen, Grindelwald-First and Mürren-Schilthorn, are all a stone’s throw from the village centre, with several prestigious ski schools nearby.  

The best ski course for you will depend on your individual goals, budget, and how much time you have.

If you are a complete beginner, the best way to develop your confidence is to work one on one with a qualified instructor. Specialist beginner courses will focus on the basics, including how your equipment works, piste law, and how to break.

Lessons range from two hours to one full day, and include video analysis of your technique, and flexible meeting points around Grindelwald. 

Most major ski schools in the area offer private lessons, with prices ranging from $350 to $395 for five hours on the slopes. 

Altitude Ski and Snowboard school offers one of the best deals for this kind of training, with instructors taking on pupils aged two and upwards. Their instructors teach in multiple languages, and they offer discounted sessions during the off-season. 

Other operators include Grindelwald Sports Ski School, and Outdoor Interlaken. 

For those looking for a more social, informal experience, group courses are an excellent option.

Grindelwald Sports and Altitude both offer group courses, at a significantly lower price than private lessons. Some ski experience is necessary to take part in these sessions, and skiers will be assigned to groups based on their ability.

Grindelwald Sports offers a two tiered service, with intermediates operating in the blue league, and more advanced skiers in the red league. Both levels are taught in groups of between 3 and 6, and teaching hours can be spread across three days, or condensed into one.

Beginners and low level intermediates will complete their lesson at the bodmiARENA, a short drive or bus journey from Grindelwald village.

Lessons for those already comfortable on skis will take place at the First, Männlichen or Kleine Scheidegg resorts.

If you are taking part in a group course through Altitude then you have the option to spread lessons across 6 days, with sessions taught either in the morning or the afternoon.

Prices range from around $45 to $70 for a half day of coaching.

Altitude also has a dedicated kids ski club, catering for children and teens between the ages of 3 and 15. The course is split into three levels: Polar Bears for 3 – 5 year olds, kids club for 6 – 15 year olds, and Extreme Kids, for children and teens aged 6 + who can already ski red runs in parallel.

Parents can book kids in for 5, 6, or 7 days, opting for either half day or full day sessions. All lessons are taught in small groups of no more than 6 pupils, divided according to age and ability.

Pupils enrolled to the Extreme Kids course will be given the chance to improve carving, powder moguls, race training, or explore steeper slopes and itinerary routes.

For adults looking to experiment with new styles, Grindelwald Sports also has a host of courses which venture outside regular downhill skiing. If you are already competent on the slopes then why not have a go at telemark skiing, which is available in either half or full day packages. The school also offers cross country courses, taught in groups of between 1 – 8. No experience is needed in either discipline, and both are a great way to improve your fitness and meet other winter sports fans.