South of Dublin, there is a slope where you can put on skis without waiting for a single snowflake. At Kilternan, ski edges grip a synthetic surface, while beginners make their way back up on a moving carpet. It may seem surprising amid the Irish hills. Yet it has a history stretching back more than half a century: this is where the country’s first artificial ski slope opened.
At Kilternan, snow-free skiing dates back to 1975
From RTÉ archives to today’s slopes
In a report broadcast on 12 October 1975, RTÉ cameras captured the opening of the slope. Members of the Scottish team and instructors from the Ski Club of Ireland gave demonstrations. Half a century later, you can still come to these hills to discover skiing or work on your technique before a mountain holiday.
The current main slope is 180 metres long and designed for skiers who are already confident. The 170-metre intermediate slope offers room to progress. For first attempts, the club has dedicated areas with a Snowflex synthetic surface and moving-carpet lifts. The sensation is not quite that of a snow-covered piste, but the skills to practise are familiar: finding your balance, controlling your speed and learning to turn.
What is a first ski session near Dublin like?
Choose a lesson before booking a free-ski session
If you have never skied before, book a beginner lesson. It gives you the chance to make your first attempts on suitable terrain, with an instructor who can correct your stance or show you how to slow down. Free-ski sessions are intended for people who can already ski in control. If your aim is to prepare for a first snow holiday, the club also offers lesson series by ability level.
Before you go, check what is included in your chosen slot, the equipment guidelines and age requirements if you are visiting with children. The club places its facilities in Killegar, in the Kilternan area: for directions, use the address on the contact page rather than the village name alone. If you are staying in the city centre, also bear the return journey in mind when choosing your lesson.
Is a new beginner slope open?
The existing beginner areas are the best guide
The Ski Club of Ireland announces a new beginner slope on its website for autumn 2026. As of 12 November, I had not found a confirmed opening date for this development. The club already offers beginner areas and lessons for people who have never put on skis: when planning your outing, rely on the slots available to book.
For a stay in County Dublin, Kilternan makes a good excursion beyond the city centre. One first session is enough to discover what it feels like to have a slope beneath your feet, even when the surrounding hills are perfectly green.
