I went skiing for the first time — at 48 — and lived to tell the tale.
Less than two years ago, I was sitting in a radio studio with no windows, lost in the hum of microphones, live shows, playlists and deadlines. Now here I was, standing on a snowy slope in the Caucasus Mountains.
I’d watched endless YouTube videos, read every beginner’s guide I could find, and picked the brains of friends who ski. I thought I knew what I was letting myself in for. But I didn’t.
When the opportunity came to ski in Gudauri, Georgia, I jumped at it. Excited, nervous, a little terrified — but I’ve always believed you’re never too old to try something new. Falling? Wobbling? Looking ridiculous? Bring it on. Quitting? Never been my style.
If you’re a first-timer like me, you’re probably asking: What should I expect? What do I need to pack? Where should I stay? Why is Gudauri perfect for beginners? This post is your one-stop guide to everything I wish I’d known before hitting the slopes.
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Getting Ready to Ski in Gudauri
The day before our first lesson, I collected my rental kit — skis, poles, boots, the lot. I watched the staff measuring and adjusting bindings, trying to look calm and confident, while feeling anything but.
Then came the boots. Oh, the boots. I slid my feet in and immediately felt… something. They were tight, yes, but not painfully so.
My toes were flat against the front, my ankles snug and I shuffled around, unsure if this was how they were supposed to feel.
Everyone kept saying, “They’re meant to be tight. You’ll get used to them.” I nodded politely, but deep down, something felt… off.
Little did I know, these boots were going to be a recurring theme throughout my ski adventure — more on that later.
Adjusting the skis, gripping the poles and trying to look like I had a clue was a mix of nervous laughter, awkward wobbles, and the occasional swear word under my breath.
I had no frame of reference — no past experience to guide me, just pure adrenaline and the knowledge that tomorrow, I’d be stepping onto the slope for our first group lesson.
By the time I was fully kitted out, I felt a strange combination of ready and terrified, and that’s when I realised: this was really happening. I was going to ski.
First Time on the Slopes
The next day, it was finally time for our first group lesson. I slipped my feet into the boots again — and remembered exactly why I’d been worried. They were uncomfortable, and walking in them felt like a proper challenge.
The skis were heavy over my shoulder, and with all my layers and snood, I felt ridiculously hot (more on exactly what to pack and wear later).
Despite all that, I actually had good control. I wobbled, of course, but I only fell once — and got the hang of the triangle, or “pizza” as our instructors called it. The technique worked, the tips stuck and slowly I felt myself getting the rhythm.
Meanwhile, little kids were whizzing past me like pros, which was both terrifying and inspiring. But the group lesson was brilliant – we all encouraged each other, cheered for little wins and laughed at inevitable mishaps.
My first ever chair lift ride was…interesting. Skis on, barely able to figure out how to move them, and getting on and off the lift was a total mission.
But sitting up there, looking out over the snowy peaks, I kept thinking, “I’m actually doing this!”
Two hours passed in what felt like minutes, and by the end, I patted myself on the back. I had done OK.
And yet… oh my feet and shins! I hadn’t realised how much those boots and skis would take out of me. Every step back to the lodge reminded me that skiing is as much a workout as it is fun.
At 48, with a history of tennis elbow and a dodgy lower back, I half-expected to be in agony by the end of the lesson.
But surprisingly, I was fine — sore in the usual places, yes, but nothing that stopped me from enjoying every wobble and turn. I left that slope feeling exhilarated, proud and hungry for more.
Day Two on the Slopes
By the second day, I had a little more confidence — and my first taste of real control on the green slopes. I ditched some of the heavier layers and snood and I felt far more comfortable moving around.
The boots were a big improvement too. I’m usually a UK 5.5, but I opted for a 6 this time. The difference was incredible. They still felt snug and secure, just as they’re meant to, but my feet weren’t being squished.
Walking and skiing felt so much more natural, and I could actually focus on my technique rather than my discomfort.
We had my second group lesson that day, and it was just as fun and encouraging as the first. Plus, I got a little one-to-one time with the instructor, which made a huge difference — small tweaks on turning, speed control, and stance gave me a real boost in confidence.
By the end of the lesson, skiing felt a little smoother, more natural and most importantly, fun. It was amazing how much a little guidance, the right boots and lighter layers could transform the whole experience.
I was really looking forward to day three, itching to practice more and put my newfound skills to the test. There were no more lessons so it was my chance to find my own momentum on the slopes.
But it wasn’t to be. Misty conditions and heavy snowfall made skiing impossible, especially for a beginner like me. I was gutted.
Still, despite the frustration, I couldn’t help but smile. Scarred for life? No way. In fact, I’m already itching for my next ski trip.
First Time Skiing in Gudauri: Why This Resort Works for Beginners
If you’re reading this and thinking, “Gudauri? Where’s that?” – don’t worry, I had the same thought. But honestly, it’s a beautiful resort, perfect if you’re skiing for the first time.
The season runs from late December to mid-April, so there’s plenty of snow and plenty of time to plan your trip.
The slopes are ideal for beginners — gentle runs right at the base, with more challenging red and black runs higher up if you’re feeling brave. Whether you’re wobbling on day one or zipping past like a pro, Gudauri’s got you.
Skiing is an expensive sport, but Gudauri is much more affordable than the Alps. A one-day lift pass costs around £18–£22 (70 GEL), and multi-day passes scale up from there.
Ski hire is just as reasonable, with a full set (skis, boots, poles) starting at roughly £13–£18 (50–70 GEL). For a beginner, it’s a great way to enjoy a proper ski trip without breaking the bank.
It does get busy on weekends with locals, which makes sense — if this were on my doorstep, I’d be here every weekend too, even if I wasn’t skiing, just for the views.
Gudauri is slowly getting the recognition it deserves, but for now, it still feels like a winter escape that’s accessible, affordable and absolutely stunning.
Getting to Gudauri
The resort is about two hours’ drive from Tbilisi, so you can fly into Georgia’s capital and be on the slopes the next day without a huge transfer.
Most people either hire a taxi or take a shared minivan — both are straightforward and well organised. The drive itself is stunning, winding through the Caucasus Mountains with snow-dusted peaks at every turn.
Honestly, it felt like part of the adventure, just building the excitement before you even strap on skis.
If you’re flying from the UK, there are usually direct flights into Tbilisi, which makes planning really simple.
Where to Stay for First-Time Skiing in Gudauri
Where you stay really matters – and for me, Marco Polo Hotel Gudauri ticked all the right boxes.
It’s ski-in, ski-out, which honestly makes life so much easier when you’re learning. No trudging around in heavy boots or carrying skis any further than necessary — you can ski straight back to the hotel, collapse and call it a day.
The rooms were spacious and comfortable, with balconies facing the mountains. Waking up to snowy views each morning felt pretty special, especially when my legs were already questioning my life choices.
One thing I really appreciated was how practical the rooms were. There were radiators in both the bathroom and bedroom – perfect for drying wet gloves, socks and layers overnight — plus plenty of cupboard space so everything didn’t end up in a heap on the floor.
After a day on the slopes, the spa was an absolute winner. The outdoor pool, in particular, was perfect for soaking aching muscles — hot water, cold air, snow all around and mountain views in the background. Exactly what your body needs after skiing, especially as a beginner.
There’s also a bowling alley and games room, which was great for evenings when you just wanted something relaxed without leaving the hotel.
It felt easy, comfortable and well set up for people who weren’t seasoned skiers.
For a first ski trip — especially your first time skiing in Gudauri — Marco Polo Hotel felt like a safe, comfortable base where everything was close, warm and designed to make life easier.
Après-Ski in Gudauri
I finally get the fuss about après-ski — you see it plastered all over Instagram over the winter months, and now I know why.
For me, it was all about food, warmth, and catching up with the group — exchanging stories and letting our hair down.
There are some great bars and cafés in the mountains where you can grab food and drinks for lunch in between runs, and for après itself, there are plenty of options in New Gudauri to unwind, relax and soak up the ski village vibe.
As someone who can’t go three days without Indian food, I was thrilled to find a couple of lovely Indian restaurants just a 15-minute walk from our hotel.
A group of us ended up going two nights in a row – nothing hits the spot quite like a warm curry after a day on the slopes.
Even if you’re not into skiing, the views alone make Gudauri worth visiting. Sitting down with a hot drink, watching the sunset over the snowy peaks, it’s easy to see why people fall in love with this place.
For first-timers, having a mix of good food, comfort and a relaxed vibe really makes the trip feel achievable – and fun.
Tips for Skiing Success
If you’re skiing for the first time, these are the things that made the biggest difference for me in Gudauri.
- Be patient — learning to ski takes time. Celebrate small wins, like staying upright on a run or making a turn without wobbling.
- Take a lesson — even a single group session makes a huge difference. I was nervous at first, but having an instructor walk you through the basics gives you confidence and saves a lot of wobbling… and falling.
- Start small — don’t feel pressured to tackle the longer runs right away. The gentle slopes at the base are perfect for finding your balance and getting a feel for your skis.
- Listen to your body — skiing is a full-body workout, especially for your legs, shins, and core. Pace yourself and take breaks when you need to.
- Embrace falling — yes, you will probably fall, and yes, it’s embarrassing. But it’s part of learning, and honestly, you’ll get up faster than you think.
Practical Tips for Your First Day
Once you’ve got the mindset sorted, it’s time to focus on the practical side – what to wear, how to move and little things that make your first day on the slopes much easier.
- Layer smart — you want to be warm, but not overheating. On my first day I was too hot in my layers and snood, but by Day 2 I adjusted and felt much more comfortable.
- Boots matter — don’t panic if they feel tight; that’s normal. But if they’re painfully tight or rubbing, speak up. The right fit makes all the difference in comfort and control.
- Hydrate and snack — skiing is surprisingly tiring. Bring water and small snacks to keep energy levels up.
- Use ski poles wisely — they help with balance, but don’t rely on them too much; your legs do most of the work.
- Learn the triangle/pizza and hockey stick — these basic techniques for stopping and turning will save your legs and boost confidence.
- Take photos, but safely — the views are incredible. Just make sure you’re off the slope or stationary before pulling out your phone or camera.
- Plan your ski day — start early when the slopes are quieter, take lunch breaks, and leave time for fun, like a hot drink or a bit of exploring the resort.
Packing List for Your First Time Skiing in Gudauri
Heading out for your first time skiing in Gudauri? Packing right makes all the difference — you want to be warm, comfortable and prepared without overdoing it.
Here’s what I took — and what I’d recommend.
- Base layers: thermal tops and leggings keep you warm without bulk.
- Mid-layer: a fleece or lightweight jumper adds warmth you can adjust easily.
- Ski jacket and trousers: waterproof and insulated — essential if snow gets deeper or wind picks up.
- Ski socks: thin but warm — avoid thick cotton socks that wrinkle inside boots. Opt for Merino wool.
- Gloves and a hat: Get a heat holder hat and waterproof gloves. Your hands and ears will thank you.
- Hand warmers and toe warmers: tiny lifesavers for long runs or windy chairlifts — especially if your boots or gloves aren’t quite warm enough.
- Neck warmer or snood: keeps your neck and face cosy, especially on windy lifts.
- Ski goggles and sunglasses: snow reflects a lot of light; goggles protect your eyes while skiing.
- SPF and lip balm: the winter sun on snowy peaks is surprisingly strong — even on cloudy days, you can get burnt. Lip balm prevents chapped lips, and SPF keeps your face safe.
- Casual clothes for après-ski: comfy shoes, jeans, jumpers — perfect for relaxing and grabbing a bite after skiing.
- Small backpack: handy for water, snacks, and any essentials while on the slopes.
- Water Pouch: You will get thirsty being so active. These handy refillable pouches are perfect.
Packing well makes your first ski trip much more enjoyable.
Trust me, having the right layers, gear, and essentials lets you focus on learning, having fun, and soaking up the views instead of worrying about being cold or uncomfortable.
FAQs: First Time Skiing in Gudauri
How hard is skiing for the first time?
It’s not easy, especially on day one — it feels awkward and your legs will definitely feel it. But once you get the basics, things start to click surprisingly quickly, especially on Gudauri’s beginner-friendly slopes.
How physically fit do I need to be to ski?
You don’t need to be super fit. I’m 48, with tennis elbow and disc issues, and I managed fine — just take breaks and listen to your body. It’s a workout, but a manageable one.
What are common skiing mistakes to avoid?
Wearing too many layers, not speaking up about uncomfortable boots, and trying to go too fast too soon are big ones. Also, don’t compare yourself to kids whizzing past — everyone starts somewhere.
Can I ski without training or lessons?
You can, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Even one group lesson makes a huge difference in confidence, control and safety, especially for your first time,
Is Gudauri good for complete beginners?
Yes — that’s exactly why I loved it. The slopes are forgiving, the instructors are patient, and the whole place feels relaxed rather than intimidating.
Will I enjoy it if I’m nervous?
I was nervous too, and that’s completely normal. Those nerves turn into pride pretty quickly once you realise you’re actually doing it.
Skiing for the first time later in life wasn’t something I’d planned — but I’m so glad I did it. It pushed me well outside my comfort zone, tested muscles I didn’t know I had, and gave me a real sense of achievement.
Gudauri made learning feel doable. The slopes were forgiving, the instructors supportive and the atmosphere relaxed rather than overwhelming. Even with weather cutting a couple of days short, I left already thinking about the next trip.
If you’re on the fence about skiing, or worried you’ve missed your moment, let this be your reassurance.
If you’re going to try skiing for the first time, Gudauri is a brilliant place to begin.
