As Switzerland transforms into a snowy wonderland, the winter season at Leysin American School in Switzerland comes alive! Our students love the colder months because of our winter program, designed to cater to all skill levels and interests. From weekly skiing and snowboarding sessions to adventurous excursions across Switzerland, winter at LAS is an extraordinary time!
Every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon during the winter term, all LAS students head to the Leysin resort to make the most of its 60 km of ski runs. This structured program is central to our winter identity, ensuring every student becomes a proficient skier or snowboarder! Beginners receive two lessons a week from experienced instructors, helping them build confidence on the slopes. Advanced students enjoy one lesson per week and spend the rest of their time exploring the slopes in groups, developing their skills, and trying new challenges like freestyle skiing in the snow park. These afternoons are more than just an opportunity to ski—they’re a chance for students to bond, challenge themselves, and immerse themselves in the stunning Alpine environment!
For more advanced students who want to challenge themselves further, LAS offers specialized programs:
- Freeride Program: Designed for those eager to explore off-piste terrain, this program teaches backcountry skiing and includes guided excursions, avalanche safety training, and incredible descents!
- Freestyle Team: Perfect for those who love the snow park, freestyle focuses on jumps, tricks, and creative expression on the slopes.
- Performance Team: A competitive option for advanced skiers, this team combines training with participation in ski racing events, where students test their skills against others in slalom, giant slalom, and Super G races.
For students who want to try different alpine adventures, the LAS Alpine Institute offers a variety of winter activities. Ice climbing, snowshoeing, nordic skiing, and tobogganing are really fun and unique ways to explore the natural beauty of the Alps. These activities allow students to connect with nature while building resilience and teamwork.
LAS also takes students beyond Leysin, offering weekend trips to some of Switzerland’s most renowned ski resorts, including Zermatt, Verbier, and Glacier 3000. These excursions expose students to diverse terrains and conditions, adding extra challenge and variety to their winter sports!
Winter at LAS is about more than just skiing and snowboarding—it’s about making connections, trying new challenges, and discovering how fun the outdoors can be! Whether carving fresh tracks on a weekday afternoon or climbing a mountain on a weekend adventure, students at LAS have endless opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive in the winter months.
