Love the idea of a ski holiday, but less certain about the drinking? Ben Coombes, founder of Soberski, joins Daniel Edward to explore alcohol-free ski trips in Méribel and explain how to get started if you have never put on a pair of skis.

Skiing for the first time

Daniel has never been skiing. Ben did not start until adulthood either, when an invitation from colleagues took him to the Alps and changed his idea of a holiday. One week was enough to make him want to return for much longer.

We start with the practical questions: hiring boots, skis and a helmet; getting some lessons before you travel; and understanding the difference between a lift pass and the coloured runs on a piste map. Ben explains why preparation can make the first morning feel less bewildering, while everyone’s progress happens at a different pace.

When the après becomes the problem

Working in a resort gave Ben more time in the mountains and a busy social life. It also meant balancing demanding work with skiing and frequent nights out. Eventually, he found himself wondering whether he could keep returning to the place he loved without repeating a lifestyle that no longer suited him.

His solution was to go back and try the season without drinking. When he began sharing that experience, other people admitted they wanted something similar. That became the starting point for Soberski.

What does an alcohol-free ski day look like?

Ben’s ideal day begins with stretching and breakfast, followed by as much skiing as he wants to fit in. Back at the chalet, guests can choose from the activities and facilities available, before an alcohol-free drink and dinner together.

Food gets a proper look-in, from French mountain classics to the chef’s own dishes. Ben also describes the evening sessions that matter to him: conversations, journalling and questions about what guests want from the week and from the months beyond it. Participation is optional, and meeting people is a substantial part of the appeal.

The costs behind the chalet price

We discuss the spending that is easy to overlook: lift passes, equipment hire, transfers, lunches, flights and winter sports insurance. Ben explains the difference between what a retreat provides and the arrangements that depend on each guest. His quoted costs reflect the conversation; the supporting budget guide links to current operator and lift-pass information.

Méribel, January and a mountain full of possibilities

Ben explains why he likes January, after the festive rush and before the February holidays. We also talk about activities beyond downhill skiing, from snowshoeing to paragliding, and the spectacle of aircraft using Courchevel’s mountain runway.

His quickfire choices include tartiflette, local cheese to take home and the book Atomic Habits. The thread running through the conversation is straightforward: make room for the mountain experiences you came for.

Meet Ben and plan your trip

Read Ben Coombes’s guest profile for more about Soberski and his supplied booking and social links. Explore the Méribel and alcohol-free ski holidays hub to plan the practical details.

Explore the guides

Your First Ski Holiday: A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started

Alcohol-Free Après-Ski: What Happens After the Lifts Close?

What Does a Ski Holiday Really Cost? Build a Budget Beyond the Chalet

Skiing in Méribel in January: Why Ben Coombes Chooses the Quieter Weeks

Soberski links

Soberski website · The Alpine Reset · Guest testimonials. Photography supplied by Ben Coombes / Soberski.