Ultimate Guide to the Best Family Skiing Holidays

The Joy of Family Skiing: A Winter Wonderland Awaits

Children are natural adventurers on the ski slopes. Their resilience, coupled with a fearless approach to learning, makes them quick to master the art of skiing. Rather than leaving the kids behind, consider one of these family-friendly ski resorts that offer a wealth of amenities and activities designed to delight both young and old.

Les Arcs: A Family Ski Paradise

Les Arcs ski resort stands out with its comprehensive ski school programs, complimentary lift passes for children under six, and a variety of childcare options, including day care, nurseries, and private nannies. Beyond skiing, families can enjoy husky sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and visits to the ice caves. The resort's low altitude nursery slopes are ideal for beginners, while other activities like skating provide alternative fun for those still getting their ski legs.

Flaine: Convenience and Kid-Friendly Fun

Flaine is a hit with families due to its proximity to the airport and free lift passes for children up to five years old. The resort boasts a special snowboarding park for kids and offers a nursery for the youngest guests, from six months to three years old. Older children can join the ski school and holiday club, which caters to ages 18 months to 14 years, with instruction available in both French and English. This bilingual environment not only teaches skiing but also offers a cultural learning experience.

Cervinia: Italian Charm and Excellent Snow

Cervinia's high-altitude location ensures reliable snow coverage for its nursery slopes. The resort's ski school teaches children in Italian, providing a unique linguistic twist to their skiing education. Off the slopes, kids can enjoy the natural ice rink, cinema, ice grotto, and ten-pin bowling, ensuring there's never a dull moment.

Isola 2000: Festive Spirit and Aquatic Adventures

Isola 2000 is not just a ski destination; it's a hub of holiday festivities, especially around December 25th. With a kids club for six to 12-year-olds, a crèche for toddlers, and ski and snowboarding lessons, there's something for every age group. The resort also features an ice rink and an aqua center, adding to the winter fun.

Valmorel: Enchanting Experiences for Young Skiers

Valmorel's igloo village is a magical attraction that captivates children's imaginations. For a warmer experience, families can opt for horse-drawn sleigh rides. The resort has long been known for its kids-only beginners slope, and the snow garden at the ski school is a recent addition that enhances the learning experience. Childcare services are available for the littlest ones, starting from 18 months.

Les Gets: Themed Fun on the Slopes

Les Gets offers a unique skiing experience with its Le Grande Cry slopes, featuring a cowboys and Indians theme complete with themed ski runs and lifts. This creative approach makes ski school an exciting adventure. For younger children, chalet childcare, nanny services, and nursery options ensure they're well taken care of while parents hit the slopes.

Cortina d'Ampezzo: A Winter Wonderland for Beginners

Cortina d'Ampezzo boasts some of Europe's finest nursery and beginner slopes. The resort complex includes a cinema, arcades, skating rinks, and options for sledding or bobsledding. A childcare center is available to look after the youngest visitors, providing peace of mind for skiing parents.

Lech: Renowned Ski Schools and Diverse Activities

Lech's ski resort is renowned for its excellent ski schools and beginner-friendly slopes. Children can start in ski kindergarten from three years old, progressing to regular ski school from four. Off the slopes, activities like sleigh rides, tobogganing, ice skating, snowshoeing, curling, and winter golf keep kids entertained. The Lech Tourist Office can also recommend babysitters for additional childcare support.

Soldeu: Commonwealth Expertise in Ski Instruction

Soldeu is known for its ski schools staffed by instructors from Commonwealth countries. The ski nursery caters to two to four-year-olds, while children from three years old can join ski school. The resort's snow garden is a hit, but the 'Mickey Mouse' ski run is especially popular with young skiers.

Alpe d'Huez: Affordable Skiing and Family Amenities

Alpe d'Huez offers affordable ski lift deals for children and a crèche for kids from six months to five years old. A ski and play club is available for two and a half to four-year-olds, and ski school caters to older children. The resort also features a skating rink and an outdoor pool, ensuring fun for the entire family.

Interesting Stats and Insights

While the article provides a comprehensive overview of family-friendly ski resorts, there are some interesting statistics and trends in family skiing that are often overlooked:

• According to the National Ski Areas Association, during the 2019/2020 season, 17% of skiers and snowboarders in the United States were children aged 17 and under. NSAA
• A study by the University of Innsbruck found that children who participate in alpine skiing have better balance and motor skills compared to their peers. University of Innsbruck
• Family skiing holidays are increasingly incorporating educational elements, with resorts offering language immersion programs alongside ski instruction.

When planning your next family skiing holiday, consider these top destinations that cater to the needs of children and adults alike, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable winter experience for everyone.