Skiing with the kids is a great idea for a family holiday. Firstly, you all get loads of fresh air and exercise, and secondly, the kids have the chance to learn a new skill and make friends at Ski School. France has long been the favourite destination for British skiing families, thanks to its short flight time and wealth of well-established resorts. But picking the best one for families can be tricky when there are so many to choose from.
So, BabyBreaks have listed the Best Family Ski Resorts in France to help you in your search. Of course it’s not just about the skiing, but also the off-piste activities, childcare services, mealtimes and kids clubs. The below resorts cover all these and more, making your family ski holiday the most restful it can be. So if you want chocolate-box chalets, snow-capped mountains and novel outdoor activities like husky rides, you’re bound to find it in our list below.
For more advice on navigating the mountains with your brood, check out our Top 5 Tips for a Trouble-Free Family Ski Holiday.
1. Avoriaz
Frequently topping the lists of best family ski resorts, Avoriaz is famous for its “Children’s Village”. There you’ll find loads of quality activities, from puppet shows to art classes, as well as a nursery and a children’s restaurant. In addition, the British and French Ski Schools offer ski and snowboarding lessons for kids as young as 3 years.
Additional facilities in Avoriaz include Aquariaz – Europe’s highest waterpark, with slides, rides and a relaxing spa. Lastly, the little ones are sure to be delighted by travelling in a sleigh, which is the main mode of transport in this car free resort. This is undoubtedly one of the Best Family Ski Resorts in France.
2. Chamonix
Chamonix is one of the world’s most famous ski resorts, and one which remains ever popular with families. Most head to Les Houches, which is well-known for being very child-friendly. Of course the skiing is fantastic, in the shadow of Mont Blanc, but it’s the off piste activities that will really thrill the kids. There are numerous ski schools for varying ages, husky rides, bowling, a cinema and even soft play.
Lastly, there are a great range of quality, English speaking creche’s and babysitting services, so you can enjoy the apres-ski scene one evening!
Check our selection on where to stay in Chamonix with Kids.
3. Val D’Isere
Contrary to popular belief, Val D’Isere has some great kids resources, making it a good option for young families. There are play areas, nursery slopes and their trademark programme for non-skiiers, Val Kids. This discovery programme helps younger children learn all about skiing through play and exploration. There’s a playground modelled on the ski area, a fun piste with games, a toboggan run and a mini skicross course for learning techniques.
However, this resort is also famous for its challenging pistes, so it’s a great option if you’re travelling with a group of varying abilities.
Check out our favourite places on where to stay in Val d’Isère with Kids
4. Courchevel
Offering access to the vast Three Valleys ski area, Courchevel is popular with families who want a great variety of activities for all ages. Firstly, there are children’s clubs for ages 4 months to 11 years, which will keep them entertained all week. Alternatively, the Family Park is a great place to all hang out together, with gentle slopes and fun themed activity areas. And when you need a break from the cold, the fantastic indoor waterpark has a baby pool for little ones, a wild river, waterslides and a spa relaxation area.
5. Meribel
This upmarket resort in the middle of the Three Valleys is popular with families thanks to its excellent, British run ski schools and special beginner’s ski areas. For example, Moon Wild piste is a trail through the trees with hidden life-size animal models to find. In addition, there’s a huge range of accommodation options, most with direct access to a ski slope, so no hauling heavy ski equipment around. And finally, the Olympic Park sports centre, with it’s indoor swimming pool, climbing wall and ice rink is the icing on the cake.
In the school holidays there are loads of free activities for kids, so make sure you visit the tourist office to see what’s on.
Check out our favourite places in Méribel to stay with family
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