J2Ski Forum Posts and Replies by andyhull

It's always been a problem in Val D'Isere, the gradient of the 'easy' runs into resort are graded as blue only because they are the resort runs. Santons is the classic, 'is this really a blue?' run.
However there are some really nice runs a bit higher up that are perfect for beginners. The Ski Tranquille area best accessed from La Daille is great 6 or 7 green runs there will give your girlfriend plenty to ski. Getting back is either by the lift or the Verte green run into La Daille where the bus stops just over the little bridge.
When we've been there we've had beginners with us and they've got on fine. Lessons are essential, and a local pass will be needed beyond day 1. It's worth remembering the resort runs usually have the worst snow, so learning is usually easier higher up.
With a bit of confidence by the end of the week beginners should be fine on the blues above Fornet.

The Emirates Stadium.

I would certainly look at 3 valleys, but not until next season, you just won't get full use of a ski area of that size on your first week. Go for somewhere smaller where you'll get value for your money on a lift pass.

A few of our nervous intermediates found themselves on the Schindlerkar by mistake. I'd describe it as a 'character building' run.

Have a look at this link, it's a webcam for which you can bring up historical pictures.

http://telechampex.ch/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=25&lang=fr

Just bare in mind the travelling time around the circuit to reach either Arabba or Selva Gardena where the best runs are.
Corvara is well placed (right on the circuit), La Villa is a bit of a trek.

In France/Switzerland/Austria etc most if not all the hire stock will be new, albeit in some cases last season's model. The bronze, silver, gold depicts on quality of the ski not it's age.
The shop should be able to match a ski to what you want to use it for, (though they might say you need gold!)
Most shops now advertise what hire skis they have so do some research in advance.
Just beware in Andorra/Bulgaria hire gear is often a year old as it where the stock from France etc sometimes ends up.

I can recommend http://www.pistetopowder.com/ We've used them on several occasions and have never been disappointed.