Skiing in Europe is not just a thrilling winter activity, it can be an unforgettable family experience. However, choosing the right ski resort may be a daunting task, especially when travelling with children. The ideal ski resort for families must cater to all family members’ skiing abilities and preferences and offer non-ski activities such as ice skating, tobogganing, and indoor swimming pools.
If you’re looking to get on the mountain this year, but want to keep everyone entertained both on and off the piste, we think these are the best options.
So… Here are our top five ski resorts in Europe for families, including a pick of both luxury and budget options.
1. Val d’Isere, France
Val d’Isere is world-famous, luxury skiing resort located in southeastern France and part of the Espace Killy ski area. It offers over 300 kilometers of ski slopes that cater to all levels, from beginners to experts. Its wide range of blue runs makes it an excellent choice for families.
Moreover, the resort offers numerous non-ski activities, including snowmobiling, indoor climbing, and husky rides.
While Val D’Isere is undoubtedly a luxury option, there are actually opportunities for affordable ski packages here too. In fact, there are great packages on Snowtrex for under £500 per person in this premium resort.
View deals in Val D’Isere2. Seefeld, Austria
Seefeld is a quaint and picturesque ski resort located in the Austrian Tyrol region, close to Innsbruck. It is an ideal family-friendly destination for many reasons. First, the resort offers plenty of skiing activities that cater to all levels, including ski lessons for children. The beginner slopes are specifically designed to help children learn in a safe and fun environment. Besides skiing, Seefeld offers other snow sports like snowshoe trekking as well.
For families that want a break from skiing, Seefeld offers a vast array of non-ski activities. The resort has a dedicated children’s area called School & Kinderland where children can take part in fun and exciting activities supervised by childcare professionals. Children can also enjoy the natural ice-skating rink or enter the igloo village. For adults, the resort has a casino, bars, cafes, and shops for a well-rounded holiday experience.
3. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is undeniably one of the most picturesque ski resorts in the world. Its location in the Swiss Alps grants skiers breathtaking views of the iconic Matterhorn. The resort caters to all skiing abilities, with a particular focus on intermediate and advanced skiers. However, Zermatt’s non-skiing activities are the real draw for families, including a cinema, outdoor ice rink, and spa facility.
4. Les Gets, France
Les Gets is an excellent choice for families travelling to Europe on a budget. Located in the Portes du Soleil ski area, Les Gets offers over 600 kilometers of ski slopes. The resort is well-known for its kids’ activities, including children’s snow parks, and ski school. Furthermore, the resort’s non-ski activities range from bowling to ice skating, and even a mechanical bull riding experience.
We also like Avoriaz, which is just down the road and part of the same ski area.
5. Levi, Finland
Levi is a perfect ski resort for families looking to experience winter wonderland activities. Located in Lapland, Finland, the resort has a wide range of skiing activities for all levels, but its northern location makes it ideal for experiencing authentic Finnish-style winter activities such as dog-sledding, reindeer-sleighing, and the northern lights. Levi’s winter cinema, indoor pool, and snow park are also great activities for families.
Finding Your Family Friendly Ski Break
Europe has some of the best ski resorts for families at both premium and budget-friendly price points. Whatever your budget or family preferences, Europe caters to all skiing abilities and offers activities that will create lifelong memories.
