Planning the perfect family ski holiday can be a magical experience. Whether you’re first-timers or seasoned snow lovers, the thrill of gliding down snowy slopes together makes for unforgettable memories. As more UK families embrace skiing, finding the right resort is key to a stress-free and exciting adventure.
In this guide, discover the best family ski resorts in Europe that promise fun for all ages.
Why Families in the UK Love Ski Holidays
The love affair between UK families and ski holidays continues to grow. According to ABTA, over 1.5 million Brits take a ski holiday each year. Family skiing has transformed in recent years, with resorts now offering extensive childcare facilities, beginner-friendly slopes, and dedicated ski schools designed for children as young as three.
For many parents, a family ski holiday offers the perfect blend of adventure, bonding, and relaxation. In fact, a Ski Club of Great Britain survey found that 42% of family skiers choose resorts based largely on the availability of childcare services. It’s not just about skiing — many resorts now feature snow parks, toboggan runs, swimming pools, and other off-slope activities, ensuring non-stop entertainment for everyone.
Top 7 Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in Europe
Choosing the right resort is crucial to a successful family ski holiday. Here are seven fantastic European resorts, perfect for your next snowy escape:
1. Avoriaz, France
- Highlights: Traffic-free village, top-rated British ski schools, Aquariaz indoor water park.
- Why it’s perfect for families: With its car-free streets and ski-in-ski-out accommodation, Avoriaz makes getting around safe and easy for children.
2. La Rosière, France
- Highlights: Sunny slopes, beginner-friendly pistes, excellent nursery areas.
- Why it’s perfect for families: La Rosière caters brilliantly to UK families, offering English-speaking instructors and ski schools geared towards kids.
3. Saas Fee, Switzerland
- Highlights: High-altitude snow reliability, friendly village atmosphere, sledging and ice skating.
- Why it’s perfect for families: Known as the “Pearl of the Alps“, Saas Fee offers gentle slopes ideal for younger skiers and a range of non-ski activities.
4. Obergurgl, Austria
- Highlights: Quiet and safe resort, excellent childcare facilities, family-run hotels.
- Why it’s perfect for families: Short lift queues, high-quality ski schools, and a relaxed vibe make Obergurgl a hidden gem for family holidays.
5. Les Gets, France
- Highlights: Family-focused town, easy slopes, charming alpine feel.
- Why it’s perfect for families: Part of the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, Les Gets offers special children’s zones and an abundance of family-friendly accommodation.
6. Alpbach, Austria
- Highlights: Picturesque village setting, gentle beginner slopes, ski pass family discounts.
- Why it’s perfect for families: Alpbach’s welcoming atmosphere and affordability make it ideal for a relaxed family ski holiday.
7. Valmorel, France
- Highlights: Great value, dedicated children’s ski areas, pedestrian-friendly resort centre.
- Why it’s perfect for families: Valmorel is designed with families in mind, from the ski schools to the extensive range of kid-friendly activities.
Tips for Planning the Perfect Family Ski Holiday
A little preparation can make your family ski holiday truly memorable. Here are some essential tips:
- Book early, especially for February half-term and Easter breaks, when availability is limited.
- Choose resorts with short transfer times from the airport to avoid lengthy, tiring journeys.
- Look for family ski packages that include childcare, ski passes, and lessons.
- Hire equipment at the resort rather than lugging it from home — many places offer excellent family hire deals.
- Select resorts with plenty of non-ski activities to keep little ones entertained off the slopes.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Family Ski Adventure
Finding the perfect destination for your family ski holiday is all about matching a resort’s facilities to your family’s needs. Whether you’re looking for gentle slopes for young beginners, fantastic childcare services, or lively après-ski activities for teenagers, Europe’s best family-friendly resorts have it all.
Ready to plan your unforgettable family ski holiday? Choose one of these incredible destinations and get ready to hit the slopes!