Ski Instructor Marco Valsecchi on Skiing with Teens
By
David Minoretti
As winter approaches, we caught up with Marco Valsecchi, ski instructor at GR Mountain Skischool Silvaplana – St. Moritz, to get the inside scoop on making the most of the slopes – for both the young and the young at heart. From his favourite hidden corners in the mountains to the little tips that turn a good run into an unforgettable one, Marco shares where to focus, where to play, and how to make every moment count once the ski lifts close. But heed his advice: on the mountains, it’s the early bird who truly catches the snow.
The Upper Engadin boasts no fewer than nine ski areas. Where are the true hotspots – the places where young, adventurous skiers and snowboarders most love to gather?
Corvatsch: Particularly popular with freestylers thanks to the Corvatsch Park, it is one of the best snowparks in the Alps. Night skiing on Fridays with a party atmosphere also attracts many young people.
Corviglia: A meeting point for sporty skiers, with fast slopes and modern lifts. Around St. Moritz, après-ski and nightlife are in full swing.
Diavolezza: A hotspot for freeriders and adventure seekers, with access to glacier runs and long, challenging routes.
I would say, those looking for action, scene, and party will find it above all at Corvatsch and in St. Moritz/Corviglia. Those who love adventure and deep snow head to the Diavolezza-Lagalb.
Beyond the slopes themselves, what insider tips would you share with young people visiting the ski area?
Start your day early and catch the first lifts to enjoy freshly groomed slopes before the crowds arrive.
If you’d like to test the latest gear, visit the Stöckli Ski Test Center in Marguns, run by Ski Service Corvatsch.
On Friday nights, experience night skiing at Corvatsch, a lively atmosphere with skiing under the lights, perfect for teens who enjoy a mix of sport and party vibes.
Don’t miss the Glüna Plaina full-moon event at Diavolezza, held once a month.
For adventure lovers, the Ski Safari is a fantastic way to explore the entire Engadin valley.
And to wrap up the season in style, join the legendary End of Season Party on Corviglia, featuring the Surf at Alpina Hütte.
“Start your day early and catch the first lifts to enjoy freshly groomed slopes before the crowds arrive.”
When working with young skiers and snowboarders, what values or key messages do you most want to pass on to them?
Enjoy the stunning nature and scenery while having fun learning new skills on different slopes and always stay safe on the tracks.
Do you feel that younger people underestimate the risks of snow sports? And what golden rules would you say are essential to keep both the fun alive and the safety intact?
It’s always a pleasure to work with young people who are motivated to learn new sports.
That said, many young people, especially at this age, can sometimes be a bit overconfident. In these cases, it’s very important to stay focused on safety, choose the right slopes, and take the right approach when learning new skills such as jumps or turns.
Equally important is teaching kids the value of the right equipment. Safety gear such as helmets, back protectors and more isn’t just an accessory – it’s a key ingredient for a carefree day on the mountain. And when guided by a professional snowsports instructor, the experience becomes a perfect blend of fun, learning and progression – always with safety at the heart, and the joy of skiing or snowboarding growing with every run.
Not every teenager spends the whole day on skis or a snowboard. What other winter sports or leisure activities in the Upper Engadin would you recommend for this age group?
Take a Tennis or Padel lesson with the Tennis School St. Moritz.
Go on an adventurous E-Bike tour with GR Mountain – through Val Roseg, across frozen lakes, or even to Lake Cavlotscha.
Experience the thrill of Preda–Bergün sledding, one of the most exciting runs in the Alps.
Soar above the mountains with paragliding from Corviglia.
For adrenaline seekers: try canyoning or ice climbing in Pontresina.
Enjoy world class winter events like The I.C.E., Polo World Cupon Snow, or the legendary White Turf horse races.
“Enjoy the stunning nature and scenery while having fun learning new skills on different slopes and always stay safe on the tracks.”
Après-ski is a must for many. Where would you suggest that young people – and the young at heart – wind down after a day on the slopes?
In St. Moritz, it’s always great fun to end a day on the slopes with a lively atmosphere at the Alpina Hütte on Corviglia, the Audi Quattro Bar on Corviglia, or the Sternen Bar in Marguns.
Down in Celerina, the Bar Finale is famous for its parties.
In the center of St. Moritz, the legendary Roo Bar at Hotel Hauser is a must, while the Pavarotti Bar or the Gondola near the Corviglia train station are perfect spots to enjoy a glass of wine with good music.
And if you cross over to the other side of the valley, don’t miss the Hossa Bar on the slopes of Corvatsch, especially on Friday nights, when night skiing turns it into the place to be.