jobster wrote:Thanks guys, given me some more options...I`ve heard Chamonix can be a hard place to learn as the beginner slopes are away from the main area.Is this right?? J
There isn't really one main area in the Chamonix Valley, there are 5 (both one of the charms and frustrations about the place!!). Each area is pretty different, some are definitely not suited for beginners and some are perfectly ok!
Probably the best two areas for beginners are Les Houches and Domaine de Balme (formerly known as Le Tour). If your beginner friend gets some lessons, then there's enough decent skiing on either of these areas for the better skiers in your group to have a good time. These areas are best placed for beginners and intermediates.
More expert skiers will also find some interesting skiing there, but might become frustrated if they are stuck there for the sake of beginners, whilst there are more challenging areas like Flégère and Grands Montest just down the road.
There are also a few dedicated trainer/beginner slopes dotted around the valley. These tend to be lower down, nearer the valley floor, whereas the main ski areas are a cable car ride and start higher up.
In case you're intersted, you can find more detailed info on the skiing in Chamonix Valley here http://chaletinthemountains.com/ski%20areas.htm
Hope this helps!