Booking and prices

How much does a private ski lesson cost in La Plagne?

It depends on the length and the time of season. For 2026-2027: 2.5 hours €195 to €244, 3 hours €234 to €292, 4 hours €290 to €345, Full day (9 am – 5 pm) €460 to €530. The price is for the whole group, not per person. Full details on the Prices page.

Is the price per person?

No. Whether you are alone or in a group, the price is the same, up to 4 people (2.5 h), 5 people (3 h and 4 h) or 6 people (full day).

When are the low, mid and high seasons?

Season 2026-2027, weeks running Saturday to Friday. Low season : 12 Dec 2026 to 18 Dec 2026 and 17 Apr 2027 to 23 Apr 2027 ; Mid season : 19 Dec 2026 to 5 Feb 2027 and 6 Mar 2027 to 16 Apr 2027 ; High season : 6 Feb 2027 to 5 Mar 2027. The price of your lesson depends on the period your ski day falls in. The booking form applies the right period automatically.

How do I get the exact price for my stay?

In the booking form, pick the activity, format, date, number of days and people: the estimate appears instantly and follows the season. Without a date you see the price range for that format.

Is there a weekly discount?

Yes: 5% off when you book 6 days, whatever the format (2.5 h, 3 h, 4 h or full day).

How does booking work?

1. Send me your request (booking form, email or WhatsApp) with your dates, level and goals. 2. I reply personally within 24 hours to build the plan with you. 3. I guide you through confirming and paying with ESF La Plagne Aime 2000.

Does sending a booking request commit me?

No. The request is without commitment: I reply, we build the plan together, and only then do you pay ESF La Plagne Aime 2000. No lesson payment is taken on this website.

Why book with you rather than directly with the ESF?

You choose your instructor and keep them. You talk to me directly, we build a tailored plan together and I stay your single point of contact from the first message to the last turn.

How far in advance should I book?

As early as possible, ideally several weeks or a few months ahead. Christmas and the February holidays fill up first.

Can I book at the last minute?

Sometimes, depending on my availability. The quickest way is to message me on WhatsApp (+33 6 50 97 43 51) with your date: I will tell you straight away whether I have a slot.

My dates are not fixed yet. What should I do?

Tick “My dates are flexible” in the booking form and tell me your wishes in the message: I will suggest the available slots. Keep in mind that the price changes with the period (see Prices).

Which payment methods are accepted?

Payment is made to ESF La Plagne Aime 2000 by card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) or bank transfer. Under the ESF terms, payment is made in full when you book and it concludes the contract (ESF terms and conditions).

What is the cancellation policy?

Because the booking is confirmed with ESF La Plagne Aime 2000, its terms and conditions apply (ESF terms and conditions, updated October 2026). In short, for a fully paid booking: more than 8 days before the lesson, with a medical certificate showing you cannot ski, the ESF offers a postponement or refunds you minus an administrative fee (10%, minimum €20); without a medical reason it keeps that fee plus a 10% compensation (minimum €20). Within 8 days of the start, a 60% fee is kept with a medical certificate and 80% without. On the day itself, a private lesson cannot be refunded. Cancellation insurance, offered by the ESF when you book online, changes these rules. Only the terms and conditions text is binding.

Where can I find the ESF terms and conditions?

Because lessons are paid to ESF La Plagne Aime 2000, its terms and conditions apply: ESF terms and conditions (PDF). They cover payment, cancellation, liability, insurance and mediation in case of a dispute. Any question about them? Write to me before booking.

Do I have a 14-day withdrawal right after paying?

No. Under the ESF terms, the 14-day withdrawal right does not apply to leisure activities provided on a set date, which includes a ski lesson. The ESF cancellation rules apply instead (ESF terms and conditions).

What if I am ill or injured before or during my stay?

Let me know as soon as possible, by WhatsApp or phone. We look together at what is possible. With a medical certificate covering the lesson period, the ESF offers a postponement if possible, otherwise a refund minus fees (see the cancellation policy). Cancellation insurance, offered by the ESF when you book online, covers this case: I recommend it.

Is the lift pass included?

No, you need a valid lift pass, bought separately. During the lesson you do get priority access to the lifts.

How can I contact you?

Through the booking form, on WhatsApp or by phone (+33 6 50 97 43 51), or by email (timothe.hagnerelle@gmail.com). I reply personally, usually within 24 hours.

The lessons

Which activities do you offer?

Seven experiences, all as private lessons: on-piste skiing, off-piste, freestyle, ski touring, snowboarding, lessons for teens (13–17) and for children from age 5. They can be combined. See the lessons page.

Why choose a private lesson rather than a group class?

The lesson is built around you: your level, your goals, your doubts. You progress at your own pace, without waiting for a group, with immediate feedback. And since the price is per group, it stays very reasonable when shared (up to 4 to 6 people depending on length).

What lesson lengths do you offer?

Half day of 2.5 hours (ideal to warm up or work on one thing), 3 or 4 hours, or a full day from 9 am to 5 pm (6 hours of skiing plus lunch). Lessons can be booked over several days.

Which lesson length should I choose?

The 2.5 hours suits a warm-up or one specific point. 3 or 4 hours let you really work on a theme and still ski. The full day (9 am – 5 pm) is the format for complete programmes: several activities, a big outing or a change of area. Over several days progress really sets in, with 5% off from 6 days. Tell me your goal and I will advise you.

How do I know my level?

The form offers four markers: beginner, intermediate (blue and red runs), advanced (red and black runs) and expert. If in doubt, choose “Not sure yet”: I assess your skiing at the start of the lesson and adapt the session.

I am a complete beginner. Are you the right instructor?

Yes. I have coached elite athletes, but I also teach complete beginners, children and adults alike, with patience and kindness. In a private lesson we work on the fundamentals at your pace, on gentle slopes: it is the fastest way to gain confidence.

I have not skied for years. Is this right for me?

Yes, coming back after a long break is very common. We rebuild the feeling step by step, on slopes chosen to bring your confidence back. My free guide “Does Skiing Come Back?” prepares you before you travel: see the free guides.

How do you help nervous skiers?

By listening, being patient and choosing the right slopes. Trained in mental coaching, I work step by step on balance and control to turn anxiety into enjoyment. My free guide “Ski with Confidence” gives 6 simple tools to try even before your trip: see the free guides.

Do I need to be physically fit to ski?

You do not need to be an athlete for on-piste lessons: the pace adapts to you, with breaks. But arriving with prepared legs changes everything, especially in the first days. My free “Ready to Ski” programme (8 weeks) prepares thighs and knees: see the free guides. Ski touring, however, does require being fit.

Can a family or friends of different levels share a lesson?

Yes, as long as the levels are fairly close: the price is the same for up to 4, 5 or 6 people depending on the format. If the gap is too wide, I will suggest splitting the group into two sessions so everyone progresses. Tell me who is coming in your message and I will advise you beforehand.

Do you teach in English?

Yes, I teach in French and English.

Do you teach children under 5?

No, I teach children from age 5. Before that, the ESF children’s ski kindergarten (Piou Piou Club) is far better suited, and better for their progress than a private lesson: learning through play, in small groups, in dedicated areas, on gentle slopes and with all the teaching equipment of the kindergarten (mats, games…) designed for little ones. Private lessons take over from age 5.

My 5-year-old has never skied. Is a private lesson possible?

Yes, from age 5, all levels, including the very first day. Each session balances structured learning with play, on gentle slopes, so your child builds confidence and a love of skiing. A private lesson lets them progress at their own pace, without waiting for a group.

Which lesson length should I choose for a child?

It depends on their age. At 5, I recommend a half day: a full day is a lot for a little one. From age 7 a full day is possible. Tell me their age and level and I will advise the best format.

Can parents watch their child’s lesson?

Yes, parents can watch the lesson or stay nearby, on one condition: that it does not get in the way of the child’s progress. If I see that having parents around distracts them, I will tell you simply and we will find the best way together.

Is there a good-value lift pass for children?

Yes: from age 5 to 18, the lift pass is 30% off the adult price. Depending on the child’s level, the “Cool Ski” passes can also be good value. I will advise you on the right choice when we plan the lesson. The pass is still bought separately.

My child is scared or does not want to ski. What can I do?

This is very common, and we never force it. I go through play, small steps and well-chosen slopes, drawing on my mental coaching training. Tell me in your message what is holding them back and I will prepare the first session accordingly.

Can my children share the same lesson?

Yes, as siblings, as long as their levels are fairly close. The price is per group (up to 4, 5 or 6 people depending on length), so it does not change with the number of children. If the gap in level is too wide, I will suggest two sessions.

Is there a maximum age for a lesson?

There is no maximum age. From age 5 everyone is welcome: pace, breaks and runs are chosen to suit your fitness and goals.

Do I need to be a good skier for off-piste or touring?

You need to be able to ski a red run safely. I offer dedicated introduction sessions.

Can we mix several activities during our stay?

Yes, we build a tailored programme (for example on-piste, then off-piste and an introduction to touring), adapted to the weather too.

What if the weather is bad?

The lesson goes ahead and we adapt the plan to the day’s weather: choice of runs, technical content, activity. If the slopes or lifts are closed, or the weather makes access dangerous, the ESF may cancel the lesson: the sums paid are then refunded (if a session is cut short, a credit is given). Details in the ESF terms and conditions.

Do you teach in other resorts?

Yes: Paradiski (Les Arcs, Peisey-Vallandry), Espace Killy (Tignes, Val d’Isère) the 3 Valleys (Courchevel, Méribel, Les Menuires, Val Thorens) and Espace San Bernardo (La Rosière, La Thuile, on the Italian side). Helicopter transfers from La Plagne can be arranged.

Where do we meet?

Wherever suits you best: at your accommodation, at an agreed meeting point or directly on the slopes.

Do you use video analysis?

Yes, it is a very effective way to understand your movements. I can send you the videos taken during the lesson.

Can we get photos or videos of our lesson?

Yes, in two ways. I am happy to take photos and videos myself during the lesson and send them to you: it is included in the lesson, but not automatic, so just ask me. For professional quality, the photographer Alban Guerry-Suire (@_stonecat) can also photograph your lesson, and film with a drone if you like: I will tell you about the conditions. It is a separate service: he bills his work directly, with the price agreed with him. For children, we ask for the parents’ consent. Mention it in your message and I will take care of it.

Equipment and safety

What equipment should I bring?

Your own (or rented) gear, suitable clothing, a helmet (mandatory for children, freestyle and off-piste), goggles or sunglasses, gloves and sun cream. For off-piste and touring, safety gear (transceiver, shovel, probe) is provided.

Where can I rent ski or snowboard gear?

At a rental shop in the resort, ideally before the lesson so you arrive ready. I can advise you on gear suited to your level and point you to a trusted shop.

Is a helmet mandatory?

Yes for children, for freestyle and for off-piste. I also recommend it for every other skier.

How is safety managed off-piste?

Weather, snowpack and avalanche bulletin checked before every outing, safety gear provided and explained, and constant VHF radio contact with mountain rescue.

Do I need insurance?

It is strongly recommended. Insurance is not included in the lesson; winter sports cover such as Carré Neige can be added when you book. The ESF also offers cancellation insurance when you book online. The lesson price includes neither lift pass nor insurance (see the ESF terms and conditions).

Your instructor

Who is Timothée Hagnerelle?

French State-qualified ski instructor, born and raised in La Plagne, with nearly 20 years of teaching and 15 years as a coach at the La Plagne ski club, up to the World Cup circuit. Trained in mental coaching, I also wrote the book “La Plagne, une histoire de ski et de champions”. More on the Your instructor page.

Are you qualified and insured?

Yes. I hold the French State Diploma in ski instruction (the highest teaching qualification in France), I am affiliated with the ESF and covered by professional insurance, off-piste included.

Have you coached champions?

Yes. I spent more than 15 years training freestyle skiers at the La Plagne ski club, from young kids to the World Cup. They include Tess Ledeux (world champion, multiple X Games gold medallist, Olympic silver medallist at Beijing), Kim Dumont Zanella (French champion, Milan Cortina 2026 Olympics), Fantine Degroote (French champion, World Championships), Timothé Roch (French runner-up, World Junior Championships and Youth Olympic Games) and Eliot Gorry (French runner-up, World Cup, university world championships silver medallist). Their stories, with their Instagram accounts, are on the Your instructor page. That experience helps beginners too: it lets me spot quickly what is holding you back.

The book

What is the book “La Plagne, une histoire de ski et de champions” about?

It tells the history of skiing in La Plagne and its ski club, from 1936 to today: 358 large-format pages with unpublished archives, first-hand accounts, photos and over 40 pages of results (Debernard, Crétier, Ledeux…). Three years of research. The book is written in French. Details on the book page.

How do I order the book, and at what price?

The book costs €35 with free delivery (Colissimo). You order it on the book page, with secure payment by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. It is the only product sold online on this site; lessons are paid through the ESF.

Can the book be signed, as a gift?

Yes: every copy ordered on the site is signed by the author. Just add the name and message of your choice at checkout: ideal as a gift.

Do you ship the book abroad? How long does it take?

The book is delivered to your door (free shipping, Colissimo) or handed over in person in La Plagne. For delivery outside France or a specific date (a gift), write to me before ordering: +33 6 50 97 43 51 or timothe.hagnerelle@gmail.com.

Free guides

Are the free guides really free?

Yes. A first name and an email are all you need to get the PDF guide, with no payment. You can also tick the option to receive my tips by email (a few messages per season), but it is optional. Your email is never sold; details in the privacy policy.

Which free guide should I choose?

“Does Skiing Come Back?” (34 pp.) for a first trip or a comeback after years. “Ready to Ski” (40 pp.) to prepare thighs and knees in 8 weeks. “Ski with Confidence” (42 pp.) to get past fear: 6 tools and 8 SOS cards. See the free guides.

Are the guides available in English?

Yes, all three guides exist in French and English: “Does Skiing Come Back?”, “Ready to Ski” and “Ski with Confidence”. You get the version matching the language of the site you are browsing.

By activity

I have never skied. Is a private lesson right for me?

Yes. We work on the fundamentals at your pace, on gentle slopes and in a reassuring setting. It is the fastest way to gain confidence.

What are the classic off-piste runs in La Plagne?

The Bellecôte glacier area is exceptional: the Bellecôte north face, Le Friolin, La Velière or the “2800” route. Elsewhere: the Tour du Saint-Jacques, Les Bourtes, the Combe des Arrièrés, Mont de la Guerre down to Champagny, and tree runs (Combe de la Folie, La Salla) on low-visibility days.

What if conditions are poor?

We adapt the plan together: an on-piste session becomes a chance to work on the key moves for your future powder days.

Do I need special equipment for freestyle?

Twin-tip skis are ideal, a helmet is mandatory and a back protector is strongly recommended. I can point you to a good rental shop.

Do I need a lift pass for ski touring?

It depends on the route: some tours start from the ski area. I will tell you exactly what you need when we plan the day.

I have never snowboarded. Can I take a private lesson?

Yes. We start with balance and stance on gentle slopes, then your first turns. In a private lesson you progress at your own pace, without waiting for a group.

Do I need my own snowboard gear?

Bring your own gear or rent it before the lesson: board, bindings, boots and helmet. I can advise you and recommend a trusted rental shop.

Can my teenager try freestyle or off-piste?

Yes, depending on their level. We explore varied terrain, from gentle freestyle to all-mountain. Off-piste requires being able to ski a red run safely, and safety gear is provided.

Can parents ski with their teenagers during the lesson?

Yes, if levels and expectations are compatible so that everyone progresses and enjoys it. I will advise you beforehand on the best option.

Can my child take an ESF level test?

Yes. As an ESF-affiliated instructor I run the tests (Ourson, Flocon, Étoiles…) and your child receives their medal and progress booklet. For private lessons, the medal is included free of charge.

2026–2027 season

Your week in La Plagne starts with a message.

Christmas and February half-term go first. Send me your dates and I will reply personally within 24 hours.

Request my dates