Is the lift pass included in the course fee?
No, the ticket for the Sportbahnen Melchsee-Frutt ski lifts is not included in the course fee and must be purchased separately at the ticket office or online from Sportbahnen Melchsee-Frutt. However, the chairlifts and the magic carpet in the ‘Fruttliland’ beginners’ area are available free of charge. Children aged 6 and under go free.
What sort of lift pass do I need for the lessons?
All children under the age of 6, as well as children enrolled in the Mini Club, do not require a lift pass. From the Blue Prince/Princess level onwards, children over the age of 6 require a ‘Sportpass MINI’ in consultation with their snow sports instructor. From Blue King level onwards, children over the age of 6 require a ‘Sportpass MINI’. From Blue Star level onwards, all children require a Sportpass for the entire ski area. For private lessons, you will always need a gondola ticket to get to Melchsee-Frutt, where the lessons start. If you have never used snow sports equipment before, the gondola ticket is sufficient. Otherwise, you will need a Sportpass for one or
several days for the lessons.
What is the difference between group lessons and private lessons?
In group lessons, the snow sports instructor’s attention is focused on the whole class. The children benefit from the sense of community this creates. The lessons follow a set curriculum. In private lessons, the focus is on the guests’ individual needs, and the lessons are tailored accordingly.
Where is the meeting point for the lesson?
You will usually find details of the agreed meeting point via the confirmation link you received by email. Click here
to view an overview of all our meeting points. For group lessons, the following applies: unless otherwise agreed, you can collect your child from the same location after the lesson.
When is the ski race taking place?
The ski race takes place on either Thursday or Friday and forms part of the group course. Children who do not wish to take part in the race will still attend their lessons that morning. You will receive more detailed information about the venue and time from the relevant snow sports instructor.
Which level should I enrol my child in?
The best thing to do is to watch the example videos for the different levels on the Swiss Snow League ’s website.
What happens if I’ve enrolled my child in the wrong level?
On Monday and Tuesday, technical supervisors will be on hand to help the teachers form groups of similar ability. If the necessary criteria for a particular level are not met, we reserve the right to move your child to a suitable group. In this case, you as parents will be informed no later than when you collect your child.
How many people can take part in private lessons?
Private lessons can be booked for up to a maximum of 4 people with the same snow sports instructor. In this case, the course price per person per hour increases by CHF 10.00. Please note that it only makes sense to book several people with the same snow sports instructor if their skiing or snowboarding ability is very similar.
Is it possible to join a course during the week?
Group courses generally start on Mondays. This is also the day on which students are allocated to groups. By arrangement, it is possible to join the course on a Tuesday, provided the maximum group size is not exceeded. Alternatively, we offer private lessons, which can be booked on any day of the week.
What happens if too few children sign up for group lessons?
For group ski lessons (Blue & Red League) to go ahead, we need at least 5 children per group. For group ski lessons (Black League) and snowboard lessons (all levels), we need at least 3 bookings. If too few children register for a particular level, we will contact you before the course begins to explore possible alternatives (e.g. shorter lesson times, combining levels, reducing the number of lesson days, or a surcharge for small groups).
Will the lesson time be made up if I arrive late for class?
No, unfortunately this isn’t possible. To ensure you arrive at the meeting point on time, we recommend that, in good weather and during the high season, you allow extra time in your schedule to account for traffic, parking, and queuing at the ticket office and for the train. The snow sports instructor starts the lesson on time and has the next group of guests waiting afterwards.
Do I need a cross-country ski pass for cross-country skiing lessons?
A cross-country ski pass is required for private cross-country skiing lessons. This can be purchased either at the ticket office of Sportbahnen Melchsee-Frutt or at Frutt Rental in Melchsee-Frutt. No cross-country ski pass is required for the taster courses, as we will only be using the practice trail.
Classic vs. skating – what’s the difference?
The main differences between skating and classic cross-country skiing lie in the movement patterns and the equipment used. Classic cross-country skiing is similar to walking or hiking on skis. The movement takes place in parallel tracks and is easier for beginners to learn, as it is intuitive and mimics the natural walking motion. Skating is a more dynamic style, similar to ice skating. The skis are pushed off sideways in a V-position, which requires more strength. This technique is more demanding and also requires greater stamina, balance and coordination.
Where is the beginners’ area at Melchsee-Frutt?
The beginners’ area is located in the ‘Fruttli-Land’ children’s area. To get there, take the gondola lift from Stöckalp to Melchsee-Frutt. Once at the top, follow the signposts which will guide you to ‘Fruttli-Land’. The marmot ‘Fruttli’ will help you on your way.
What equipment does my child need for lessons?
The basic equipment required includes suitable ski/snowboard boots, skis/snowboard and ski poles (only from Blue Star level onwards). Your child will also need a properly fitting helmet and suitable goggles. Dress your child appropriately for the weather in a suitable ski suit and dry gloves, and don’t forget the sun cream.
How can I pay for the lessons I’ve booked?
We ask that you pay for your lessons in advance using the confirmation link, either by credit card or Twint. Alternatively, you can pay on the spot at the ski school office before the lesson begins. In addition to cash in Swiss francs (CHF), we also accept credit cards (Mastercard, VISA, V-Pay, Amex) as well as EC-Direkt, Postcard and Twint.
Will I get my money back if I/my child don’t like it?
No, you will not receive a refund if you or your child do not like it. If you are unsure, we recommend booking just one day or one hour to start with. With group courses, there is always the option to extend the course. With private lessons, there are usually options to book additional days or hours as well.
What happens in the event of illness or an accident?
In the event of illness or an accident, a refund in the form of a voucher may be issued upon presentation of a doctor’s certificate. However, this applies only to the difference in cost. The days used will be charged at the daily rate. Any day that has commenced will be charged in full. A processing fee of CHF 10.00 will be charged for a refund in cash.
