Frequently Asked Questions
What does the centre offer?
Skiing and Snowboarding lessons: Group lessons and private lessons are available Monday to Saturday, throughout the year. All abilities from complete beginner through to race training are accommodated for.
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Taster/Grading Sessions - Our taster/grading sessions allow you to come along to an introductory session to try skiing for the first time or to be assessed by an instructor, where you will receive a grading at the end of the session.
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Ski/Snowboard practice sessions - these are pre-bookable sessions for skiers & snowboarders of a specified level of ability which allow you to practice your skills on our slope. Only those who meet the required ability will be permitted onto the slope - see below for details. Practice sessions are not suitable for beginners as no tuition is given during these sessions.
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Groups/Schools: We are happy to welcome by arrangement school groups, university groups, Scouts and other group parties. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
Tubing parties: these are sledging parties in our rubber rings, including use of our party area which is great for after the session. You can bring your own food and drinks in this area.
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Tubing sessions: These sessions run on Fridays & Saturdays and can accommodate a maximum of 12 participants.
When can I visit?
The centre is open Monday to Saturday, however all services require to be booked in advance. Private lessons are very popular and are often booked up quickly - early booking is therefore advisable, particularly if you are preparing for a skiing holiday.
What level should I book?
Entry into intermediate/advanced group lessons is usually done by means of instructor feedback during a grading session or private lesson or following assessment/grading at the end of a lesson block - our taster/grading sessions ensure that participants are graded based on their level of ability which enables the correct class to be booked.
Do I need lessons?
If you can turn, stop, use the ski tow and ski/snowboard from the mid way point whilst being in good control of your speed, then you are welcome to use the slope to practice or for recreational skiing. However, for the safety of everyone on the slope, these standards will be strictly checked by our staff. If you cannot meet the minimum ability standard then you will not be eligible to practice on the slope and will require to have lessons until you can ski safely without guidance.
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What do I need to bring?
Gloves, long sleeves and trousers are essential. During the summer months it is advisable to wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a peaked hat. Waterproof trousers and a jacket are also recommended as the facility is all weather and has a sprinkler system on the slope. All ski and snowboard equipment is provided if required.
Is pre-booking required?
Yes, pre-booking is required for all services at Polmonthill Snowsports Centre. We recommend early booking as our lessons & tubing sessions can often book up in advance.
When can I do recreational skiing?
Recreational skiing is available throughout the week & should be pre-booked in advance under 'practice sessions'. We cannot always guarantee availability for recreational skiing as our slope can at times be very busy - our website will show availability for these sessions. Specified level of ability applies to recreational skiing - as detailed above.
When do I arrive for my first lesson?
Once you have your lesson booked, if you have never been to Polmonthill before please allow 30 minutes before your lesson start time to allow for fitting of ski and snowboard equipment. Once we have a record of your sizes please still allow 15 minutes before your lesson start time to ensure you are on the slope all ready for your lesson at the appointed time.
What about payment?
All group lessons are to be paid in blocks. There will be no transfer of payments for missed sessions. If we cancel a class for any reason, we will provide a credit note at the end of each block.
All private lessons must be paid at the time of booking. If you give more than 72 hours notice to cancel a private lesson, you can transfer that lesson to a different day or receive a credit. If you give less than 72 hours notice, payment will be lost.
Is there a minimum age for skiing & snowboarding?
The centre caters for children from 4 and a half years upwards. We offer ‘Penguins’ ski classes for ages 4 and a half to 6 years and our main Junior classes start at 7 years old.
Our snowboarding lessons are suitable for Aged 9 and above.
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Our Adults Only classes are suitable for Age 18 and over.