Our Top Tips When Planning The Perfect Family Ski Trip!
Book the right resort
Family-friendly is the name of the game, and there are a number of such resorts in the Alps of course, skiing being a pursuit for the whole family - but we want to highlight two such resorts – snow-sure and sunny Montgenèvre and Serre Chevalier – both excellent destinations to take to the snow with your family in tow.
These unique and special places naturally turn on the charm and boast many options and facilities and things to do for everyone and of course ski options aplenty and powdery bliss bar none.
A brief birds eyes view of these two resorts:
The picture-perfect village of Montgenèvre, sitting pretty at 1,860m is a very special place and has much to offer families, with a touch of ‘Monty’ magic. You will all find yourselves yearning to return year after year.
Known as the ‘French Connection’ – the only ski resort on the French side adjoining the Via Lattea ski domain in Italy. Montgenèvre is an ideal ski setting for families, where mixed abilities and all ages can practice and discover. With 100km of groomed pistes, comprising 7 green, 25 blue, 38 red and 18 black runs, and a dedicated and extensive nursery area (beginner zone) and beginner slopes, right by the village ‘front de neige’. There are blue and green slopes galore, nice and wide with long and winding runs. For the intermediate, more self-assured skiers in the family, there are a number of challenging runs with accessibility up to 2,800m.
Neighbouring Serre Chevalier is a valley area in Briançon that sits on the edge of Parc National des Écrins, which forms part of the Écrins Massif mountain range. It’s one of the largest winter sports resorts in the Alps, with a base elevation of 1,200m, up to the highest point of 2,800m, with 250km of super slopes and excellent ski conditions in stunning surroundings. ‘Serra-Che’ has an all-round appeal and perfect for the whole family.
Montgenèvre and Serre Chevalier really do tick all the boxes when it comes to family ski holidays.
On-point accommodation
Make no mistake, choosing a place to stay is a make or break factor of your family ski holiday. Ensure you book an apartment or chalet with enough space, rooms and beds and think about the little extras that will make a difference to your stay, like location, or facilities such as a hot tub or pool.
Other factors such as proximity to the ski school and ski areas (we can assist you with drops and collections for those booked in to lessons) - the last thing you want is a great trek, not just to the slopes but also at the end of the day. You want to avoid being the family pack-horse due to tired family members refusing to carry their own equipment!
Pre-book important extras
Planning and pre-booking certain aspects of your holiday not only avoids added stress and disappointment, but you can also receive the best deals, as the early bird, and also ensures the availability of your preferences.
In particular, transfers, ski passes, lessons and paraphernalia (equipment)… Booked and rented ahead of time means you arrive unflustered and with plenty of ‘steeze’ (slope lingo for style and ease). We can take you directly to the ski shop to grab your kit and take you to your quarters!
For transfers from airport, station or city centre to your accommodation in the Alps - we are the local specialists to your final ski destination. With comfortable 8-seater people carriers and proficient drivers, your journey with us will be a breeze.
Be snow-ready
Practice rounds
Make a point of getting your family onto some indoor/dry slopes at a ski centre so they can limber up to the ski scene. There are a number of ski slopes to ‘train’ on in the UK, especially for those who need some practice or feel a little rusty.
When to go
Dreaming of a white Christmas? Nothing quite like a snow-filled, fun-filled, festive Christmas holiday, especially for the little ones.
Alternatively, for a change of scenery, the Alps in other seasons is indeed a marvellous playground for the entire family - no matter the time of year - and every season brings different pursuits and experiences.
Prepare the troops
On ski days, you will want to be prepared, to avoid any meltdowns or unhappy campers.
Get the right garb for everyone – snoods, scarfs, gloves, hats – you name it. Layering is the name of the game: dress everyone in layers and take a backpack so that when needed layers can come off, or on, so no one is too hot or cold or wet, at any time.
Pack a snack or two. Have them available at all times, even just sweets in your pocket while on the slopes - keeping energy levels up - and there is nothing like mum or dad whipping out a treat just at the right time!
Take breaks and stay hydrated. When on the snow you can forget to drink water. Keep a bottle in the pack at least.
Hot chocolate breaks are mandatory. Hit the pause button and sip on something hot. Stop off and recharge a little, and watch the smiles return. It will also help acclimatise to the altitude.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Especially before you hit the slopes. Eat a substantial breakfast – lay into the French croissants, breads and pastries. You won’t need to ask twice, your family will be piling into breakfast in no time.
Land of nod. We endorse plenty of sleep on ski holidays. Most of the family will need an extra 1 or 2 hours of sleep a night, so plan accordingly. You want to avoid overly tired team members.
Skiing and other snow experiences
With all the skiing going on, it’s a good idea to come together on the slopes at the end of the day, if you’ve split up for ski school, slope practice or have gone off-piste. Catch up by skiing down a slope together as you end off the day’s activities. Those who learnt something new will be dying to show off their new skills and it will give everyone a chance to reconnect and have a laugh.
Also, don’t forget to pack a device to take photos! Family selfies and action shots. Be sure to keep such equipment in your inside pockets (secure and away from the elements).
We highly recommend too that you arrange other activities and adventures other than skiing. Especially if it’s your first trip as a family or if your family is young. A bit of variety goes a long way and most ski towns will have several exciting activities like sledding, ice skating, sleigh rides and snowshoeing, etc - all great ways to enjoy winter in the mountains, without being on a ski hill.
What memories are made of
Want to know more about Montgenèvre or Serre Chevalier? Ask ski holiday specialists of the region, Snow Holiday. They will gladly help you with all aspects of your jolly family ski holiday. They are experts at creating specially made holidays, especially for you and your loved ones.