Where to Learn in Le Grand Bornand

Photo: © OT Le Grand Bornand

We’re in the French heartland here and, not surprisingly, the ESF dominates the learning business with branches located at Le Grand Bornand tourist office and at the foot of the of the slopes in Chinaillon.

They offer lessons in six languages and teach all disciplines, including Handiski for disabled skiers. The ESF also has a separate school for cross-country. The only real competition to the ESF comes from ESI Starski, which operates from the Residence Le Montarquis at Chinaillon. It takes children from three years in groups limited to five. The school offers instruction in English and has a booking system in English on their website. Aravis Ski Concept offers tailor-made lessons for individuals or groups, with meeting points to suit.

The resort’s been built with families in mind

As one of France’s Famille Plus resorts, Le Grand Bornand is certified as having met the stringent standards required to provide everything a family needs for an enjoyable, trouble-free ski holiday. However, to get to grips with the intricacies of childcare here you first have to master a couple of formidable French tongue-twisters.

The village creche Les P’tits Maringouins cares for children from three months to five years. There’s also a branch at Chinaillon for children from eight months to six years. It is essential to reserve places before your arrival in the resort. Les Mom’en Ski, situated at the top of the Rosay gondola, is a club for four- to 12-year-olds. It provides ski lessons and lunch, as well as plenty of other on- and off-snow activities. Contact the ESF in the village (or at Chinaillon for details and bookings. Once on the slopes, your kids will find they have plenty of space to learn in three specially-created debutant areas, plus a Jardin de Neige for the littlest ones, expertly run by the ESF and ESI Starski ski schools.

See also our feature on What You Should Know About Lake Annecy Skiing.