Information on Snowboarding and Snowboard Holidays

Firstly, you'll need to try it out if you haven't done so already. This is best by booking a 'taster' session at the 'snowboard school' either at a UK centre or during a snow based holiday, its recommended to take a few lessons before you book your holiday to aviod disappointment when you there, plus it will give a boost when you can ride.

Now you're stoked, a beginner's course of lessons will get you up and running fast. In the UK, you can choose your most convenient local centrewho will be able to book you up and get you started all year round.

In season you can book lessons in Scotland by contacting your chosen resort directly. To
book lessons abroad, be sure to book them in advance with your travel operator to avoid disappointment.

What you shoule look for in a ski holiday as a beginner is a winter sport resort with nice easy runs - blue and green, with a reputable ski school.

Aslo your holiday provider should be able to provide you with vital information about the resort - where the medical centre is, location of lifts, where to buy your lift pass if its not included in your holiday package, areas to stay away from(on and off the slopes), where supermarkets and gift shops are, where you meet your snowboard school, board hire shops and resort slopes guides can be located and finally where the all important bars and night clubs are.

What will you need to take with you?

As you probably guessed its pretty cold up there in the mountains, so lots of warm clothing is essential, and remember that its lots of layers, not a huge jacket that keeps you warm. Gloves are a must, and at all times when you snowboarding, not just for warmth, but from protection from the shape edges of your board or other people skis.

Safety on the Slopes

Safety is always a priority. For the slope code of conduct and other safety information, go to the ride safe guide pages and read them thoroughly.

• Respect: Do not endanger others.
• Control: Adapt the manner and speed of your riding to you ability and the general conditions on the mountain.
• Choice of route: The skier/snowboarder in front has priority - leave enough space.
• Overtaking: Leave plenty of space when overtaking a slower skier/snowboarder.
• Entering and starting: Look up and down the mountain each time before starting or entering a marked run.
• Stopping: Only stop at the edge of the piste or where you can easily be seen.
• Climbing: When climbing up or down always keep to the side of the piste.
• Signs: Obey all signs and markings - they are there for your safety.
• Assistance: In the case of accidents provide help and alert the rescue service.
• Identification: All those involved in an accident, including witnesses, should exchange names and addresse

Do not ride off-piste until you have gained relevant riding experience and have undertaken an education program, ideally with a trained professional guide /rider or organisation holding relevant, recognized qualifications.