to plan your day’s skiing in Jura sur léman
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, there are a few tips to help you save time, ski safely and make the most of the Jura sur Léman mountains. Check out all our handy tips before you set off and during your day on the slopes.
Before you arrive
Plan your journey
If you arrive early, you’ll enjoy better snow, less crowded slopes and easier parking. Before setting off, check:
- Weather conditions
- Road conditions
- Compulsory equipment (snow chains or winter tyres, depending on conditions)
- Webcams: weather forecasts aren’t always enough to gauge actual conditions. Webcams allow you to check snow cover, visibility and visitor numbers
- Slope maps and opening times
Choose the right car park
At weekends and during school holidays, the car parks near the slopes fill up quickly. We recommend:
- The Dappes car park (if you don’t have an ESF lesson on the French side);
- The shuttle buses.
Hire your equipment the day before
To avoid queues, remember to hire your equipment the day before your day’s skiing. You can also ask for adjustments tailored to your ability and height.
Book your ESF lessons
Are you new to skiing or looking to improve? Ski schools (in France and Switzerland) offer lessons for all ages and all levels: children, adults, beginners and experienced skiers. During the school holidays, remember to book your lessons in advance to secure your slots.
Pack your bag
To ensure a comfortable day out, remember to pack sun cream, sunglasses or a ski goggle, a bottle of water, a warm change of clothes and a snack.
During your day’s skiing
Choose the right ski pass
Depending on your plans, there are several ski passes available:
- 4-hour pass : ideal if you want to ski for half a day or enjoy the slopes only in the morning or afternoon. A budget-friendly option for skiers who aren’t planning a full day;
- Beginners’ Area : designed for those new to skiing or who wish to practise at their own pace on easy slopes and suitable lifts, marked as ‘beginners’ on the piste map;
- Full-day pass : the ideal choice for enjoying the ski area at your leisure from the morning until the lifts close. It’s suitable for skiers who want to explore several sectors and link runs together at their own pace.
Download the piste map
Before you set off skiing, download the map onto your mobile phone or pick up a paper copy at the ticket offices or from the Tourist Information Centres.
Keep your ski pass safe
Store your ski pass and receipt in a dedicated pocket so that they’re easily accessible. These documents include the emergency number, proof of purchase of your ski pass and your insurance number, if you’ve taken out this cover.
Choose the right level of piste
Start with the green runs and the ‘First-timers and Beginners’ areas to build your confidence, then gradually move on to the blue and red runs.
Progressing at a steady pace helps prevent tiredness and falls, and allows you to make the most of the 34 km of pistes in the Jura sur Léman ski area.
Take breaks
Skiing is a physical activity. Alternate between runs and breaks to stay alert; a break at a restaurant or bar in one of the mountain resorts allows you to recharge your batteries and enjoy the views. Remember to:
- Stay hydrated regularly;
- Take breaks;
- Eat enough.
The golden rules
Check your equipment
Before your first run:
- Check your bindings;
- Make sure the settings are appropriate for your ability level;
- Have your equipment checked by a professional if necessary.
Tools are also available near some ski lifts.
Check your insurance
Rescue services on the slopes are subject to a charge. Some slopes in the ski area are located in Switzerland. The terms and conditions of cover may differ.
Before your trip:
- Check whether your credit card covers rescue costs;
- Or take out suitable ski insurance (insurance is offered when you purchase your ski pass).
In the event of an accident, contact the rescue services by calling the number shown on your ski pass. Then give your location using the numbered markers located along the slopes.
A helmet: an essential safety measure
Wearing a helmet is strongly recommended for all skiers, regardless of your age or ability. It helps reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of a fall or collision. Remember to choose a helmet that fits your size and is properly adjusted before taking the ski lifts.
Know the 10 rules for skiers
To ski safely and share the slopes with respect for others, be sure to consult the 10 rules for skiers. They set out the correct behaviour to adopt on the slopes.