Learning to snowboard as an adult can feel intimidating. But in Champéry, Switzerland, The Winter Ride Camps transform that apprehension into confidence. Designed specifically for adult beginners and intermediate riders, these inclusive camps invite participants to discover the joy of snowboarding in a safe, welcoming, and empowering environment.
Based in the heart of the Swiss Région Dents du Midi, The Winter Ride Camps were founded by Julie, a French photographer, snowboarder, longboard dancer, and outdoor enthusiast, together with her partner Jean-Baptiste, a passionate rider with a deep love for surfing, skateboarding, and snowboarding. They share not only their passion for board sports and photography but also a dedication to teaching, coaching, and helping others grow through empowering experiences.
“The idea behind the snowboard camp is to encourage adults to dive into a new passion, overcome their fears, and realize that anything is possible, no matter their background or age,” Julie says, having embraced these passions as an adult herself. Two editions are offered, tailored to different levels.
The Beginner Edition
Perfect for those who have never strapped into a snowboard or who want to build strong foundations in a stress-free atmosphere.
Beyond technical riding skills, the program delivers a complete 360° coaching experience — covering everything from understanding snowboard equipment, learning how to read a ski map, to confidently using lifts.
The goal is to make participants feel fully comfortable and independent on the mountain.
The Intermediate Edition
Ideal for riders who are confident on red pistes and eager to take their skills further — whether learning first tricks in the snowpark, gaining fluidity on varied terrain, or even experiencing a unique live concert on the slopes during the famous Rock The Pistes Festival!
Intermediate participants will also embark on a Snow Safari day tour, a playful exploration through the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, taking riders across two countries, Switzerland and France, without ever repeating the same piste.
Everything is carefully designed to ensure the best possible learning conditions. The camps are intentionally scheduled during the low season, primarily in March, when the slopes are quieter and the snow softer — ideal for building confidence, having fun, and progressing quickly in snowboarding.
By partnering with the renowned Swiss Ski School (ESS), the camp ensures that all coaches are experienced snowboard instructors who love sharing their knowledge and guiding each participant’s progression with care and enthusiasm. Throughout the week, instruction remains personal and passionate, supported by deliberately small groups that keep the focus on each rider’s individual journey. Participants also benefit from a dedicated video analysis session — a key tool for faster progression, helping them better understand their movements and improve their technique.
Beyond the lessons, the days are thoughtfully balanced between personalized coaching, exploration, and shared moments.
One unforgettable evening offered campers a taste of authentic alpine culture, with a cozy dinner in a family-run restaurant, followed by a magical torch-lit walk through the night, the snow sparkling under a full moon — a simple yet breathtaking memory that captures the spirit of the camp.
But this experience is about more than just snowboarding.
It’s about building confidence, making new friendships, experiencing mountain life, and embracing the freedom of trying something new without judgment or pressure.
For those looking to extend their snow season or live a European winter dream, The Winter Ride Camps offer a heartwarming and truly immersive adventure in the Swiss Alps — one that goes far beyond the slopes.
Ready to embrace your teenage dream of snowboarding?
Website: evoqexperience.com/the-winter-ride-camps
Instagram: @the.winter.ride.camps
About the Founder
Julie is a French photographer, snowboarder, longboard dancer, and outdoor enthusiast.
Having discovered these board sports as an adult, she now dedicates her energy to helping others embrace new passions through inclusive, empowering experiences.
Alongside her partner, she runs Evoq, a creative agency specializing in storytelling, tourism, outdoor sports, and brand communication between the Alps and the French Riviera.
Julie recently shared her journey on The Chairlift podcast, discussing how she learned snowboarding as an adult and created a safe space for others to progress.
Instagram: @movingjulie