Guide to Family Ski Holidays
If you are planning a family ski holiday, then knowing where to visit and how to get there will help to make the trip as hassle-free as possible. Skiing can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, whether you are all heading to the slopes as total beginners or returning with your children to introduce them to something you love, skiing with family is a truly memorable experience.
Planning family ski holidays
A little research goes a long way, and planning family ski holidays properly can help to make the whole trip much more enjoyable. We’ve gathered some top tips on family ski holidays based on our extensive experience of the area and providing shared transfers and private transfers to loyal customers of all ages.
Travel dates
With school-aged children, you’ll need to travel during the school holidays, so booking as far ahead as possible is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. The earlier you book your family ski holiday, the more likely you will be able to secure the accommodation, flights, and resort most suited to your needs.
Prices are higher at resorts during peak periods, however the benefit of visiting during peak periods is that there tend to be more activities available, including evening entertainment and fireworks in some areas.
Transport from the airport
Our shared and private transfers are the easiest way to get from the major airports to your accommodation. We’ll collect you from the airport, and our experienced drivers will take you to your resort while you relax and chat with the kids about their upcoming adventures.
There are a number of drop-off points for shared transfers located across each resort, so you can choose the closest and most convenient one for your family, at a cost effective price. Our representatives in the resort will meet you and share their local knowledge, giving you advice on the best way to reach your accommodation from your drop-off point.
Private transfers are a door-to-door service that can be completely tailored to suit your flight times, travel plans, and the needs of your family. On the way home, we’ll contact you before departure to arrange a time to collect you all from your accommodation so you can make the most of every moment of your holiday together.
Equipment and clothing
Ensuring everyone is safe and warm is a top priority, so proper ski equipment and clothing will be required for the whole family. For families with young children, borrowing or hiring equipment is more cost-effective, at least until you know if they will enjoy snow sports.
In terms of the basics, everyone will need:
- Ski jacket and trousers (bright/distinctive colours will make the kids easier to see!)
- Warm base layers and socks
- Waterproof gloves
- Hat and goggles
- Safety gear (helmet/body protection)
On-site hire facilities are ideal for beginners, you’ll be able to hire everything you need for a successful first family ski trip, and the hire shop will ensure the equipment fits everyone correctly for maximum safety and comfort. We have an excellent offer available with our partners at SkiSet who can provide you with all the equipment you need, just click here to make the most of our discount.
Where to ski with family
Family skiing holidays often involve lots of different ages and abilities, so it is vital to book a resort with suitable facilities and terrain. If you have very young children, sticking to resorts below 1500m altitude will help minimise the impact of high altitude, giving you the best chance of a pleasant and comfortable family ski holiday.
Locations
Our customers particularly enjoy La Plagne and Avoriaz for family-friendly holidays, as there are plenty of easy slopes, snow parks, and activities to keep the kids entertained. Morzine is also great for families as there are plenty of ski schools and childcare options for all ages, as well as a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere in the low-altitude village. Check our transfer times from the nearest airports, as shorter journeys will usually be more manageable for families, especially those with young children.
When considering locations, you might prefer a resort in a peaceful village or an area away from the livelier après ski attractions, which can stay open until the early hours of the morning. Equally, it’s always useful to be close to the hustle and bustle if you have older children and teenagers who might enjoy some of the evening entertainment on offer.
Courchevel is an excellent location for families, whether you are looking for luxury relaxation, world-class service, and Michelin Star dining, or a delicious takeaway to enjoy on the sofa together after a long day. The town also has plenty of shops, and the slopes are suitable for skiers of all ages and abilities.
Accommodation
Finding accommodation in the right location can make a huge difference to your family ski holiday. Ski-in Ski-out options will mean you avoid any delays getting to the slopes and the kids can take regular breaks whenever they need to. Many families prioritise resorts with childcare facilities and ski schools so the grown-ups can have a little freedom to take on some of the more challenging terrain, while the kids are having fun elsewhere.
Hotels offer a variety of packages, including all-inclusive options so you don’t need to worry about cooking meals for everyone. Self-catering accommodation is also particularly popular with families on a budget or those needing more flexibility around mealtimes. Families looking for a luxurious home-from-home often book catered chalets, with plenty of space to relax, excellent facilities, and chef-cooked meals so the grown-ups can have some well-earned time off!
Bonus activities
There are lots of activities, sports and experiences to look forward to on a family skiing holiday. As well as making memories on the slopes, you might explore the mountains on a snowmobile tour, or experience the thrill of husky sledging or tobogganing. There’s something to suit all ages, and family-friendly resorts make alternative activities easy to access.
Booking transfers for your family ski holiday
To make your journey as smooth as possible, Alpine Fleet offers a range of shared transfers and private transfers from international airports to most major ski resorts. Our convenient and comfortable service makes travelling to your family ski holiday as stress-free as possible.
