France
Off-piste skiing around Chamonix is not tracked out as soon as you'd expect with the amount of skiers there. If you know the area very well and are prepared to hike a bit there is fresh powder to be found a week after snowfall. If not so familiar with the area, snow conditions and avalanche safety, hire a guide for a few days.
Mountaingirl is a great company that offers women's climbing courses and holidays. It's run by inspiring and fun female mountain guides who teach and encourage you instead of just drag ging you up a hill.
They have courses for absolute beginners to high level climbers and are happy to make a "bespoke course" for you and your friends if you ask. They offer a very high-quality experience where you can learn a new sport, laugh a lot, and also get out somewhere incredible!
London office
128 Shoreditch High St,
London E1 6JE
www.mountaingirl.eu
Send your feedback or queries to been.there@guardian.co.uk
Search Been there
Your tips about Chamonix