Alpine skiing is a sport that has long been enjoyed by persons with limited mobility. This discipline has only grown in popularity in France, and it is now one of Europe's most popular trends. Indeed, the French federation has long given disability sports great attention, as seen by the facilities available and the efforts made by ski resorts and operators of these activities. Let us summarise the reasons why you should try hand skiing on our French slopes in five points!
1. Fully equipped resorts
Our French ski resorts are the most accommodating when it comes to skiing for those with limited mobility. Several improvements and renovations have been made to make the skiing areas more accessible to people with disabilities. For example, the Portes du Mont-Blanc includes multiple chairlifts and modified ski lifts for different types of sitting-skiing, including monoski, kartski, and tandem. In France, handisport has progressed to the point that techniques like 'sip-and-puff' have resulted in developments that allow persons with the most complex disabilities to participate in winter activities safely. Val Thorens, Valberg Samoëns and Châtel are among the long list of resorts that make skiing accessible to people with reduced mobility.
2. Enjoy the sport of skiing
There's a reason why we enjoy the snow. Hand-skiing is no exception since it incorporates the longed-for sensation of gliding and joy into this coveted activity. In reality, you will experience unparalleled adrenaline rushes while sitting comfortably in your chair. Whether you ski alone or in tandem, you are surrounded by the most stunning snowy mountains of France. Whether you're skiing sitting, or standing, you'll have the opportunity to create spectacular turns. There are numerous options open to you, but the goal remains the same: to allow you to enjoy the joys of this sport while providing you with the most thrilling experience imaginable!
3. Qualified professionals will accompany you
Expert instructors' aid and accompaniment should not be a hindrance or a source of hesitation in the practise of Handiskiing, but the exact opposite. As state-certified ski aficionados, our instructors do everything possible to guarantee that your activity runs smoothly and safely. They will be pleased to provide you with information on the usage of wheelchairs and sliding skills and assist you with your beginners lessons, if necessary. They will then go to great lengths to assist you in gaining some autonomy and will be happy and optimistic! Throughout the season, our experienced team will make every effort to give you the warmest welcome possible, making your winter stay unforgettable.
4. Offers that are appropriate for all levels and needs
Handiskiing, also known as adapted and assisted skiing, includes several practice options, making it a sport that is accessible to everyone, regardless of disability or skill level. Let us explain it to you in more detail: Tandem skiing, commonly known as FMS, is the most popular method of practice since it is suitable for people of different ages and weights. This is the most common and conservative variant. For persons with lower-body disabilities, the Dualski is the best alternative for improving their gliding performance, as the Kartski can be used if balance is an issue. Last but not least, the Trotiski is an excellent solution for standing skiers. You guessed it: the option is yours. All you have to do now is read over our offers and decide.
5. Take advantage of disabled sports discounts
Given the quality of the facilities and the innovation of the equipment, you might believe that all of the benefits listed above will cost you an arm and a leg, but you'd be wrong! Our Handiski activities are reasonably priced and accessible to anyone. Simply by displaying your CMI card (Inclusion Mobility Card), you may save up to 50% on your Handiski session. Don't let the cost of entertainment keep you from having fun this winter; schedule your session now or give it to a loved one as a gift!
When in France is the best time to go handiskiing?
The presence of snow at the resorts may be required for those with limited mobility to ski. As a result, winter is unquestionably the best time to get started and enjoy our facilities. However, making your reservation in advance is advised to avoid overcrowding in our centres and assure your spot to avoid last-minute surprises. So, what are you waiting for to go handiskiing in our resorts?