Jet off to Europe this winter with the whole family in tow. From the Swiss Alps to the Dolomites, we discover some of the best ski resorts for families across Europe that will seamlessly make for a perfect winter wonderland family vacation.
Avoriaz
Les Portes du Soleil, France
Avoriaz, nestled in the heart of the French Alps, is a haven for families seeking an unforgettable winter getaway. The resort’s commitment to family-friendly activities is evident in its thoughtfully designed children’s village, featuring specialized ski schools like the Village des Enfants, where young ones can learn to navigate the slopes in a playful and supportive environment.
The car-free village not only ensures safety but also creates a stress-free atmosphere for families to explore the snow-covered streets on foot, horse-drawn sleighs, or even horse-drawn sleigh taxis.
Avoriaz offers a range of activities beyond skiing, including snowshoeing excursions through magical winter landscapes, exhilarating toboggan runs for thrill-seeking kids, and enchanting winter hikes suitable for all ages.
The Aquariaz water park, nestled in the heart of the resort, provides a warm and tropical escape with its lush vegetation and relaxing pools—an ideal retreat for families seeking a break from the snowy adventures. With its diverse array of family-oriented activities, Avoriaz ensures that every member of the family, from the youngest snow enthusiasts to the seasoned skiers, can revel in the joy of a winter wonderland retreat.
For the ideal family getaway, stay at Residence Électra, nestled in the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area.
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel
St. Moritz, Switzerland
Beginning in December, Badrutt’s Palace in St. Moritz, Switzerland transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland as the snow-covered mountains and frozen lake create a breathtaking backdrop. Paired with 10 restaurants, 3 bars, a nightclub and more, Badrutt’s Palace offers endless winter opportunities within a beautiful setting.
December marks the start of the winter sports season in St. Moritz. With world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities, guests may take advantage of the excellent ski resorts nearby. Badrutt’s Palace Hotel provides easy access to the slopes and can arrange for equipment rentals and ski instructors through the onsite ski concierge.
The property offers the Luxury Ski Break package that is perfect for families and can be booked for 3 or 5 nights includes daily breakfast, ski pass, welcome amenity, butler service, access to the ice rink and access to childcare at Kids’ Club Palazzino (3-12 years).
This winter season, guests can expect a new culinary concept to debut in Chesa Veglia and are invited to indulge in two exciting pop-ups with Michelin starred, Jordnær and renowned plant-based Zurich restaurant, Restaurant KLE.
Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d’Ampezzo, a Radisson Collection Hotel, lies in the centre of
the Dolomites, and in the heart of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Being the only 5-star hotel within the town centre lends this luxurious Alpine hotel to the best of both the majestic views of the Dolomites, as well as the fantastic shopping experiences located within town.
From snowmobile safari touring and stargazing to heli-skiing, ice climbing, and dog sled rides just to name but a few, Cortina has everything families can wish for in a winter vacation getaway.
For dining, guests are invited to the property’s three unique culinary locations starting with the Ristorante Savoy, 1224 Bar Lounge & Terrace and The Sports Bar. Create lasting memories with loved ones on their 1224 Terrazza, where guests can enjoy a sundowner while watching enrosadira, the spectacle of the sun setting onto the mountains, painting them in a soft rose hue.
The resort also offers the intimate Savoia Spa featuring Comfort Zone treatments and products.
La Plagne
La Plagne-Tarentaise, France
Based in the French Alps, and part of the renowned Paradiski Area, La Plagne is well known by families of all ages and abilities. Those new to the sport can learn in safety in the five CoolSki Zones – separate from the main pistes, and with very good value lift passes. When feeling more confident, the many cruisy blue runs serve as an excellent way to improve whilst gaining confidence.
Off the slopes, there are countless non-ski activities, including zip lines, horse-drawn sleigh rides, snow shoeing, tobogganing, and the bob raft descent. One of La Plagne’s 11 villages, Belle Plagne is probably one of the best family-friendly villages in La Plagne. Sitting at 2,050 metres altitude, the pretty purpose built Belle Plagne is ideal for accessing the whole of La Plagne and the Paradiski. It is completely ski-in, ski-out, has a pedestrianised centre with all the shops and restaurants needed, and has its own ski school meeting point.
Les Arcs
Bourg-Saint-Maurice, France
Les Arcs stands out as a fantastic destination for families seeking a winter escape in the French Alps. The resort boasts dedicated children’s areas, such as the Mille8 recreation centre, where kids can enjoy a winter wonderland of activities, including a toboggan run, a covered ice rink, and a thrilling luge track.
Beyond skiing, families can embark on exciting husky sledding adventures, explore snowshoe trails, or take a scenic ride on the Vanoise Express, the world’s largest cable car.
VIP SKI’s Bear Lodge is the ultimate destination for families seeking a remarkable piste-side experience in Arc 1950. With thirty bedrooms and a prime location opposite the Marmottes and Bois de L’Ours chairlifts, Bear Lodge places families at the heart of the snowy action.
Bear Lodge has forged a partnership with ESF in Les Arcs, providing complimentary guiding on the first two mornings of guests’ stays— the perfect opportunity for families to explore the slopes together.
Serfaus Fiss Ladis
Tyrol, Austria
Just over an hours’ car ride away from Innsbruck Airport, Serfaus offers more than 200 km of pistes catered more towards intermediate and beginner skiers. As well as some wonderful attractions for children on the slopes.
There are a great selection of ski schools to choose from, should lessons be wanted, and – not so common for many resorts in Austria – there is ski-in, ski-out accommodation available too. Ready for the winter season, guests can enjoy a new 10-seater EUB Komperdell lift by Doppelmayr.
There are plenty of non-ski activities including horse drawn sleigh rides, toboggan runs, and rope swings.
Six Senses Crans-Montana
Crans-Montana, Switzerland
Located in the Swiss Alps, Six Senses Crans-Montana offers specialized wellness experiences for post-slope relaxation, paragliding amongst snow covered mountains, an exclusive first tracks ski pass, and a white carpet ski concierge. The property has views that stretch across the Valais valley, all the way from the Swiss Matterhorn to the French Mont Blanc massif. The resort has curated offerings for every level of adventure desired.
First Tracks Ski Pass allows guests to enjoy a first tracks ski pass an hour before slopes open to the public to enjoy that fresh powder feeling. A one-in-a-lifetime opportunity available at the resort is their sunset flight where guests can paraglide from the slopes and land on property. Experienced gliders will capture the once in a lifetime moment on camera.
Travelers who may not enjoy skiing or are looking for alternative activities may embark on a 2.5 hour nature walk with expert guides. Guests will learn about animal tracks and nature amongst the freshly fallen snow. After the excursion, attendees will be greeted with hot chocolate and gingerbread to warm up.
In addition, daily snowshoe treks are led by guides allowing travelers to explore the mountain trails day and night. Guests are provided gourmet Valaisan food that includes customizable snacks, lunch, or dinner upon request.