Coming to Kopaonik and Never Skied Before?
10/12/2024
Kopaonik is the ideal destination for first-time skiers, offering gentle slopes, stunning nature, easy access, and expert tips to make your skiing experience unforgettable.
Coming to Kopaonik and Never Skied Before?
What have you waited for?
That’s probably a question you’ll ask yourself after your first solo descent down the slope... You chose Kopaonik as the location for your first skiing steps, and that’s truly a great decision!
Why is Kopaonik the Right Place for Skiing Lessons?
1. Gentle Slopes and Gradual Incline Increase
The numerous gentle slopes allow you to master your skiing technique gradually. This isn’t the case at most ski resorts in the region. Trust me, the last thing you want is to feel insecure while descending a steeper part of the slope, which leads to greater muscle fatigue and a physically exhausting experience. This could even make you consider giving up skiing altogether.
However, skiing on Kopaonik should be an enjoyable experience in the snow, a feeling of freedom, connecting with others, and pure joy. Skiing is why you’ll be planning your vacation next year, enjoying time with family or friends. Skiing brings people together, spreading love and happiness – may it always be that way!
2. Beautiful Nature and Photogenic Scenery
Let’s be honest; we all love to capture exquisite photographs. Surrounded by stunning nature and coniferous forests blanketed in snow, Kopaonik creates an idyllic winter setting that makes it special.
3. The abundance of Non-Skiing Activities
Aside from skiing, Kopaonik offers top-notch restaurants, cozy cafes, various accommodations, kid-friendly activities, snowmobile tours, hiking trips, and a vibrant nightlife. There’s no way you can get bored on Kopaonik!
4. Effortless Access to the Slopes
All the main facilities and ski lifts are located right in the center, so you can reach everything on foot. At most other ski resorts I’ve visited — and there have been many — accommodations are usually far from the slopes, requiring organized transport to reach the gondolas, which then take you up to the ski area. Here, you can enjoy a direct view of the slopes right from your window.
Beginner Ski Tips for Kopaonik
What to expect when skiing on Kopaonik?
Skiing itself, you can expect the following costs:
1. Renting Equipment
A standard skiing equipment package includes renting skis, boots, and poles. Children under 14 are required to wear helmets. I also recommend adults wear helmets for safety reasons.
There are plenty of ski rentals in the center of Kopaonik, so it’s best to pick one close to the slopes. Walking in ski boots for the first time can be tiring because your ankle joints are locked. To make things easier, rent your equipment as near the slopes as possible.
It’s common for rental boots to feel uncomfortable since they aren’t custom-fitted to your feet—many people have worn them before you. That’s why it’s crucial to try them on before hitting the slopes. If they feel tight, the discomfort will only get worse, and you’ll have to go back to swap them. This is why ski boots are usually the first piece of equipment you should consider buying for yourself.
Read more about ski equipment here!
2. Buying a Ski Pass
You can buy a ski pass either at official sales points on Kopaonik or conveniently online. I highly recommend purchasing online to take advantage of discounts and skip the lines.
It’s better to buy a ski pass for all your skiing days at once, instead of buying a new one every day. This way, you’ll save money and avoid waiting in line every time.
There’s a special ticket for absolute beginners that gives access to a fenced-off, easy slope. While it’s cheaper than a regular ski pass, it can get boring quickly. If you want to explore higher slopes, like blue slopes, you'll need the standard ski pass. It’s best to get the regular ski pass from the start since it includes all slopes, including beginner areas.
3. Choosing a Ski Instructor
Hiring a ski instructor is one of the most important choices you'll make. Skiing should be fun, so it’s essential to choose wisely. Your instructor affects how you feel—whether you're excited or bored, safe or scared, and how quickly you learn skiing skills.
It’s best to choose an instructor through recommendations. If someone close to you had a positive experience, the chances of making a mistake are minimal. Read reviews of ski instructors and check their qualifications, expertise, and experience in teaching.
Make sure to reach out to the instructor before booking lessons! It's important that your ski instructor is friendly and patient. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. During the lessons, your instructor should understand and support you while building your confidence. If they don't, consider finding another instructor.
In a pleasant environment, the learning process will be much easier.
I don’t mean to impose, but please consider me as an option!
Ski Instructor Boško Božović