There’s not much that can beat a trip to the slopes, whether you’re there to relax, learning the ropes or looking for high-adrenaline, expansive routes around some of the most beautiful vistas in the world.
Skiing holidays are also one of the most popular family holidays in the world and often tick many of the boxes that parents are looking for – it keeps the kids active in the great outdoors while offering an exciting (or relaxing!) experience for adults as well.
Ski resorts understand that families are one of their key demographics, which is why so many cater to a range of ages, skill levels and interests with a variety of activities.
Aside from skiing – obviously – great ski resorts for families will offer something for everyone, even the non-skiers. Whether it’s fun family activities, scenic mountain hiking routes, ski-lift rides around stunning landscapes or just lazing around a heated pool, many of the top ski resorts have things to do that you might not usually expect.
With self-catering and serviced accommodation often available, ski holidays can be incredibly flexible depending on your budget or needs. Most ski resorts feature both affordable accommodation and luxury stays, ensuring that everyone is catered for. On-site childcare is usually available, whether that’s in the form of ski school or nursery services for those children who are too young.
If you’re looking for your next winter holiday, we’ve taken the time to round up some of the best for you, so you don’t have to. Read on to discover some great ski resorts for families and what makes them a top choice for you.
1. Avoriaz
Source: alpineanswers.co.uk
Located right at the centre of the Portes du Soleil ski area is one of the most dynamic and contemporary ski resorts in the Northern French Alps – Avoriaz.
As a 100% ski-in/ski-out resort, Avoriaz is home to dramatic landscapes, bold architecture and a variety of skiing experiences that make it ideal for a memorable family getaway.
Whether you’re stopping off at the ski school ‘Village des Enfants’, the ‘Aquariaz’ water-park or manage to catch the Snow Carnival, there’s plenty to see and do around the resort itself. Avoriaz is extremely child-friendly as it’s car-free and features five snow parks – excellent places for children to learn.
Adults will find 77km of undisturbed pistes, with the resort surrounded by a web of high-altitude blue and red runs. Avoriaz is ideal for the intermediate skiers in your life, although there’s plenty of opportunities for beginners to learn the ropes. With the Switzerland border within skiing distance, it’s the ideal chance to take in some of the sites and stretch your legs if that’s more your speed.
2. Chamonix
Source: xcchamonix.com
The home of Alpine skiing, Chamonix is a legendary ski resort renowned for being the first host of the winter Olympics in 1924. A vibrant town nestled at the foot of the world-famous Mont Blanc mountain, Chamonix is a family-friendly, authentic destination filled with French charm.
As the region’s capital, it has 10,000 permanent residents – a number that quickly rises when snow falls. A contemporary destination for experienced skiers, beginners and families alike, Chamonix is a stylish ski resort filled with history.
With direct access to a variety of ski regions, a stay at Chamonix means you’re connected to a number of different pistes, making this resort unique in the area. Whether you’re an experienced skier looking to tackle Vallee Blanche or a beginner that wants some experience in the Brévent and Flégère ski areas, Chamonix is ideal for visitors that want to be at the heart of the action without compromising accessibility around the region.
Also featuring some of the Alps’ best snow conditions, Chamonix is renowned for its off-piste skiing, cross-country trails and opportunities for experts to really show off their skills.
As with most ski resorts, Chamonix caters for visitors of all budgets and interests – with a number of premium spa hotels as well as affordable hostels. For the kids, there’s a number of activities including swimming, ice-skating, a climbing wall and a ski school, ideal for little ones who want to get started on the slopes.
Just a stone’s throw from Geneva airport, it’s a popular destination for tourists – whether you’re there for a long-stay or just visiting over the weekend. Here at Piste Pro, it’s one of our favourites.
3. Val Thorens
Source: ski4u.com
Described as the ‘highest resort in Europe’, Val Thorens is tucked away in Les 3 Vallees and offers one of the largest ranges of activities and facilities in the world.
With connections to Les Menuires, Méribel and La Vallée La Courchevel – ideal for more intermediate and expert skiers – Val Thorens also has plenty of family-friendly skiing opportunities within the resort.
One of the biggest attractions of Val Thorens, however, might be the opportunities it can offer the non-skiers in your life. Featuring two large shopping malls, a fun park, nightlife options, a cinema and even an indoor sports centre, you and the family won’t be short of things to do if you’re looking to get away from the ski slopes for a day.
Activity highlights include snow mountain biking, torch-lit descents down the mountain, 6km toboggan runs and the fun park we mentioned earlier – here the kids will have access to trampolines, bouncy castles and soft play areas, ensuring everyone gets a good night’s sleep.
If you’re looking for some luxury, the Le Hameau du Kashmir and Le Chalet de la Lombarde both offer exceptional exposure to sunlight while providing on-site spa treatments, access to heated pools and saunas.
