Snowsports FAQs

Why ski or board in Scotland?

Skiing and snowboarding in Scotland is good value for money and you don't need a passport, costly travel insurance or foreign currency (unless you're visiting Scotland from overseas). There is a wide choice of friendly local accommodation and things to see and do near each mountain centre if you're planning a short break or extended winter holiday.

Professional instruction and equipment hire is also available at all centres - please book in advance.

How do I get started?

1. Do your research. Register for snow alerts, follow the Ski-Scotland Facebook page and keep up with the latest snow conditions. Always check the travel and weather reports before travelling.
2. Find out more about the various ski passes available, from day to multiple day passes and the Ski-Scotland All Areas Season Ticket (available for a limited time only). 
3. Book accommodation (if you need it) nearby.

How can I learn to ski or board in Scotland?

1. If it's your first time on skis or a board, then it might be worth taking a lesson at a local artificial ski slope.
2. When you're ready for the mountain, choose your snowsport centre. All centres have beginners' slopes with easy uplift.
3. Contact the centre and book a beginners package. These include your lift pass, equipment and lessons. At Glenshee, you'll need to book these separately. 
4. If you're taking a lesson, remember to arrive at the centre at least 1 hour before it's due to start.

Can I bring the family?

Absolutely! Wee ones will love it - most will find it easier than adults! The centres all offer gentle nursery areas, easy uplift, a range of lessons and child uplift passes.

What age can kids start skiing?

Although some areas have special classes for very young kids (five years and under), it is usually required for children who join a group lesson to be at least seven years old. This may vary so please check with the centre or resort you're planning to visit.

What other snow activities do ski centres offer families?

Most centres also offer other snow activities, such as sledging, as a fun alternative for both the young and the young at heart!

How do I choose the right skiing gear?

If you are hiring equipment for the wee ones, make sure you know your own and your kids' height, weight and shoe size - you'll get the gear quicker, and not hold up others.

A skiing or snowboarding holiday in Scotland has all the right ingredients – stunning scenery, thrilling downhill descents and it’s a great way to spend some quality time with the family but the most important thing is to keep warm and dress appropriately.

Our five snowsport centres have a range of equipment available for hire from skis and snowboards to goggles and boots. However, when snow conditions are good it can be difficult to find everything you’re looking for, especially if you leave it too late.  

If you’re hiring at a snowsport centre, make sure to pre-book in advance before booking your lift pass. Alternatively, there are a wide range of places across Scotland who offer equipment hire before you hit the slopes.

Hiring options before arriving at the slopes:

Ski ‘n’ Boardroom, Glasgow

Ellis Brigham, Braehead (Glasgow), Aviemore & Fort William

Active Outdoor Pursuits, Aviemore

Loch Insh Watersports, Kincraig near Aviemore

The Cabin Ski Hire, Bridge of Cally, near Glenshee

On site equipment rental:

Cairngorm Mountain

Glencoe Mountain

Glenshee Ski Centre

The Lecht 2090

The Nevis Range

How can I keep up to date with snow and road reports?

The snow reports are updated by each ski centre during the season early morning, late afternoon, and more often as required. The live webcams show real time conditions. Please be aware that early in the season it's still dark in the early morning and therefore the snow conditions cannot be properly assessed until sunrise.

What are the snow conditions like in Scotland?

The snow conditions in Scotland are unpredictable and unfortunately we can't always promise deep, powdery snow! The mountain centres do enjoy reasonable snowfall most years, so you can enjoy a great day out on the slopes when the conditions are favourable.

What do I need to know about safety on the slopes?

If you're not sure about conduct on the slopes, all centre's display the Skiers Code of Practice which should be observed. Ski patrollers are always happy to advise on safety matters. Accidents and minor injuries are dealt with by ski patrol at first aid posts on the mountain and the cost of first aid and/or mountain rescue is included in your lift pass.