Winter Trips
Skiing in the Alps: Best Ski Resorts for Families
There might not be a more legendary ski destination than the Alps in Europe. Thanks to its postcard villages, gorgeous scenery, and fantastic snow conditions, it is a true dream for all ski fans out there. Whether you are an experienced rider or just starting out, the Alps offer trails for all levels. Comfortable accommodations, great food, and a wide range of winter activities make it a perfect place to travel with the whole crew.
Here is a guide on the best family-friendly ski resorts in the Alps.
Avoriaz, France
Set in the center of the Portes du Soleil area, it is a true paradise for ski lovers. What makes it so great is the fact you can simply click into your skis right next to your home and head for a day of adventure. The beautiful resort is an excellent choice for beginners and intermediates, therefore it is well suited for travelers with families. Since the Avoriaz is the highest resort in Portes du Soliel, you are guaranteed to have stunning views throughout your trip.
Depending on your technical level, you may choose between different types of passes. Don't feel like just staying in the resort? With just a few chairlift rides, you may get to the Franco-Swiss border and continue your adventure there. If you want to make some unforgettable memories, having the whole Grand Domaine experience is a must.
The beautiful town of Avoriaz is truly one of a kind. In the area, you will find a lot of self-catering accommodation, which is excellent when traveling with the whole crew. Most streets are car-free (and filled with snow), so you can hop on your sleighs or skis and go straight to business. Suppose your family members are not too into skiing – no worries! There are plenty of off-slopes activities they can try.
Obergurgl, Austria
Set in one of the highest villages in the Alps, the resort is a skier's dream. Whether you are just starting out on the slopes or are an experienced professional, you will easily find trails that are suited for your level. Obergurgl has an excellent local ski school, which is helpful for all the beginners out there. While you're having the time of your life on the big mountains, your little ones can have fun exploring kids' slopes and trying out mini jumps in the snow park.
The ski season in Obergurgl lasts for about six months, and it is the one place you are guaranteed to have powdery white snow. However, what makes the resort in Tyrol, Austria, even better is the fact it is equipped with a modern lift system and ski-in ski-out accommodations.
La Rosière, France
Situated on a sunny mountainside at 6070 ft, La Rosiere offers the best of both worlds – excellent skiing conditions and a comfortable stay. A part of it is integrated with its Italian counterpart La Thuile. Recently the resort has opened a new sector on Mount Valaisan, which is an exciting addition for more advanced skiers.
Although the resort will be an exciting discovery for professional skiers, it is also a good place to improve skills for the intermediates. Scenic views, gorgeous surroundings, and excellent snow quality – that is what makes La Rosiere so great. Furthermore, you may surely expect high-quality accommodation and services, yet it is still a relatively budget-friendly option. Since the resort is quite close to Bourg-Saint-Maurice, you may easily travel to La Rosiere by taking a high-speed train.
Méribel, France
When it comes to ski resorts in the Alps, Meribel is as good as they come. Situated in the heart of Les Trois Vallées, it should definitely be on your ski bucket list. The mountain of powder is the largest ski area in the world. Since it is at the crossroads of La Tania, Les Menuires, Courchevel, Orelle, Brides-Les-Bains, Saint Martin de Belleville, and Val Thorens, you are guaranteed to have an experience unlike any other.
The white paradise is a great choice for beginners and families. More than half of the on-piste terrain is rated “easy”, so you don't have to worry about the trails being too difficult. Advanced riders will have a pleasure exploring the off-piste and freeride terrain, which is a whole lot of fun. Although the resort has all of the amenities one would need for a comfortable stay, it has preserved its traditional Savoyard-style village. So whether you are traveling with your family or friends, you will surely find Meribel to suit your needs.
Flaine, France
Built already in the 1960s, sometimes nicknamed the big snowy bowl, Flaine is a family-friendly resort that offers excellent facilities. Although it may not be the most picturesque alpine resort, it is still a great place to visit. The resort is often regarded as a cultural landmark in France and is known for its famous outdoor sculptures, some of which were even created by Pablo Picasso. With a cable car, visitors can easily reach the Grandes Platières peak, which includes breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.
When traveling with kids, Flaine is an incredible destination. Skiers can easily find good deals for family lift passes. Since the village is mostly car-free, you don't have to worry about chasing your little ones. What makes the resort so attractive is its prices. Compared to other Alps destinations, it won't break your bank.
Cervinia, Italy
Long hours of sunshine and excellent snow conditions – Cervinia will definitely steal your heart. Nestled on the Italian side of the Matterhorn massif, it is linked with Zermatt – a well-known Swiss resort. Thanks to this, you may ski all day, not repeating your route. The ski school is conveniently located at the top of the gondola, which means that even absolute novices can experience magnificent views.
Cervinia has a reputation for having excellent accommodation and delicious dining options that will satisfy even the biggest critics. Many skiers travel from countries away just to try the famous pasta all'amatriciana and have a taste of Bobardinos. Although Cervinia seems modern in its looks, the center of the resort has still preserved its historic charm. Wandering around the streets of the village, surrounded by breathtaking arrays of high mountains, is an adventure itself.
Gstaad, Switzerland
Those searching for a luxurious getaway will surely enjoy a visit to Gstaad – an upscale resort town situated in the Bernese Oberland region of the Swiss Alps. Thanks to its beautiful architecture and charming chalet villages, it is one of the dreamiest ski destinations in whole Europe.
With its majestic mountains and prestigious schools, Gstaad has become a loved resort by celebrities and royalty. When staying at the Swiss resort, you don't have to worry about anything – the service and the snow is impeccable. So discover the hundreds of kilometers of all-level pistes and after that – finish a long day in a Michelin-starred restaurant – sounds like a dream, doesn't it?
Are you ready for your next adventure, skiing in the alps?
Written by: Tim Smith Tags: Austria, Europe, France, Italy, Switzerland
Austria
France
Italy
Switzerland
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