Welcome to our guide to the best family ski resorts in Europe! Whether you’re looking for the perfect ski resort for young children or planning an unforgettable family ski trip, we’ve got you covered. From the vast Portes du Soleil ski area to the famous resorts in France’s Espace Killy, we’ll explore the top destinations that offer great ski schools, family-friendly atmospheres, and activities for children both on and off the slopes. So, if you want to ski with your little ones, learn to ski together, or simply enjoy a great ski holiday that the whole family can enjoy, read on to start planning your perfect family ski adventure in some of Europe’s most child-friendly ski resorts.
Guide to the Best Family ski holiday in Europe 🏆
- 🌟 The most prestigious: Courchevel
- 🎿 For beginners: Serre Chevalier and Sierra Nevada
- 👪 Best for families: Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis and Grandvalira
- 🌃 For a night out: Alpe d'Huez and Val Gardena
- 🏂 Best for extremists: Baqueira-Beret and Courchevel
- 🏔️ Best for views: Aletsch Arena and Val Gardena
1. Serre Chevalier – The All-Round Family Ski Paradise
- 📅 Skiing season: December – April
- 🎿 250 km of slopes, 61 ski lifts
- 🏔 1200 m – 2800 m above sea level (altitude difference 1600 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 110 km from Turin Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Families, beginners to intermediate
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 150 (Read more →)
Serre Chevalier is one of the best family friendly ski resorts in France, and boy, does it live up to the hype! I still remember my first time carving down its 250 km of ski slopes, the crisp alpine air filling my lungs as I took in the breathtaking views of the French Alps.
What I love about Serre Chevalier is its versatility. From gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for pros, it’s perfect for families looking to ski with young children. And let’s not forget the après ski scene – nothing beats sipping hot chocolate by a crackling fire after a day on the slopes!
Features: 23 green runs, 29 blue runs, 35 red runs, and 13 black runs cater to all skill levels. The resort is particularly good for intermediate skiers, with plenty of varied terrain and tree-lined slopes.
Facts: Features 3 snow gardens for children, multiple ski schools, a snowpark, and 81 restaurants across the resort. The area also offers thermal baths, ice driving circuits, and a vibrant après-ski scene.
Best hotels to stay near Serre Chevalier 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Serre Chevalier
- Amazing Luxury Flat Foot of the Piste Luc Alphand – A luxurious apartment offering ski-to-door access and stunning mountain views, perfect for a high-end ski holiday experience.
- Le Serre d'Or - Grand Appartement au Pied des Pistes de Ski – A spacious apartment located at the foot of the ski slopes, providing convenient access to Serre Chevalier’s ski area.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Résidence Le Prorel – A comfortable residence offering easy access to the ski slopes and amenities of Serre Chevalier.
- Le Doux Mélèze – A cozy hotel providing a warm atmosphere and good value for money in the Serre Chevalier area.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Studio Bois des Coqs – A budget-friendly studio option for those looking for affordable accommodation in Serre Chevalier.
2. Alpe d’Huez – The Sunny Family Ski Trip
- 📅 Skiing season: December – April
- 🎿 250 km of slopes, 84 lifts
- 🏔 1120 m – 3330 m above sea level (altitude difference 2210 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 105 km from Grenoble Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Families, all levels
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 180 (Read more →)
Alpe d’Huez is where I head when I want to combine world-class skiing with plenty of sunshine. This purpose-built ski resort offers some of the best ski slopes in France, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to Mont Blanc.
What sets Alpe d’Huez apart is its family-friendly atmosphere. With excellent ski schools and a variety of runs, it’s one of the top ski resorts for families with young children. After a day on the slopes, don’t miss the lively après ski scene – it’s the perfect way to round off your family ski trip!
Features: 41 green runs, 34 blue runs, 40 red runs, and 16 black runs, including the famous 16km Sarenne piste. The resort is suitable for all levels but particularly great for intermediates and advanced skiers.
Facts: Boasts 2 snow parks, a halfpipe, 70 restaurants, and multiple ski schools. The resort also offers activities like ice climbing, dog sledding, and has an outdoor heated swimming pool.
Best hotels to stay near Alpe d’Huez 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Alpe d’Huez
- Les Balcons du Golf – Located 0.6 miles from the center of L’Alpe-d’Huez, this hotel offers various activities including skiing, hiking, and cycling. It features a hot tub, sauna, and is suitable for family stays.
- Chalet Magique Pleasure Two – A chalet-style accommodation offering a cozy mountain experience in Alpe d’Huez.
- Menandiere V2 – Another excellent option for those looking for a comfortable stay near the ski slopes of Alpe d’Huez.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Appartement Alpe d'Huez – A comfortable apartment option providing good value for money and convenient access to the ski area.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Magnifique Duplex à l'Alpes d'Huez – A budget-friendly duplex apartment located in the heart of the resort, ideal for those seeking affordable accommodation.
3. Aletsch Arena – The Eco-Friendly Family Ski Resort
- 📅 Skiing season: December – April
- 🎿 104 km of slopes, 35 lifts
- 🏔 1845 m – 2869 m above sea level (altitude difference 1024 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 180 km from Zurich Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Families, nature lovers
- 🏨 Average price/night: CHF 200 (Read more →)
Aletsch Arena is where I go when I want to combine world-class skiing with jaw-dropping scenery. As one of the best European ski resorts to ski with young children, it offers a unique blend of family-friendly slopes and stunning glacier views.
What makes Aletsch Arena special is its commitment to sustainability. The resort runs entirely on renewable energy, and you can feel the difference in the crisp, clean mountain air. Plus, the local ski schools are top-notch, making it a great choice for families looking to start planning their family ski adventure.
Features: 13 blue runs, 47 red runs, and 17 black runs make this resort more suitable for intermediate to advanced skiers. The resort offers stunning views of the Aletsch Glacier, the largest in the Alps.
Facts: Features multiple ski schools, several snow parks, and numerous mountain restaurants. The resort is known for its eco-friendly initiatives and offers activities like glacier trekking and snow-shoeing.
Best hotels to stay near Aletsch Arena 🏨
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Giltstein – A comfortable hotel offering easy access to the Aletsch Arena ski area and surrounding attractions.
- Apartment im Grünen – A cozy apartment option providing a homely atmosphere for visitors to the Aletsch Arena region.
- Heimeliges hochklassig saniertes Chalet in Mörel – A beautifully renovated chalet offering a luxurious mountain experience near Aletsch Arena.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Haus Cotton 4.5 Room Apartment – A spacious apartment option suitable for groups or families looking for affordable accommodation in the area.
- Hotel Aletsch – A budget-friendly hotel option providing comfortable stays for visitors to Aletsch Arena.
4. Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis – The Ultimate Family Ski Playground
- 📅 Skiing season: December – April
- 🎿 214 km of slopes, 68 lifts
- 🏔 1200 m – 2820 m above sea level (altitude difference 1620 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 80 km from Innsbruck Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Families, beginners to advanced
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 170 (Read more →)
Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis is my go-to when I want a perfect family ski trip. This Austrian gem is one of the best ski resorts for families, offering a fantastic range of ski slopes that cater to both beginners and intermediates.
What I love about Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis is its family-friendly atmosphere. With excellent ski schools and plenty of off-slope activities for children, it’s a winter wonderland for young families. And don’t get me started on the food – the smell of fresh apple strudel wafting from the mountain restaurants is simply irresistible!
Features: 47 blue runs, 45 red runs, and 28 black runs cater to all abilities, with a particular focus on family-friendly skiing. The resort offers excellent beginner and intermediate terrain.
Facts: Boasts 3 snow parks, 10 ski schools, and numerous child-friendly facilities including a “children’s snow land”. The resort also features a unique underground railway for easy transport.
Best hotels to stay near Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis
- VAYA Terrazena Serfaus – A modern hotel offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to the Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis ski area.
- Hotel Gabriela – A 4-star hotel located in Serfaus, offering excellent amenities including a sauna, Turkish bath, and various activities such as cycling, hiking, and skiing.
- Anna's Garten – A charming hotel providing a cozy atmosphere for visitors to the Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis region.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Hotel Regina – A comfortable hotel option offering good value for money in Serfaus.
- Kraxner Haus – A cozy guesthouse providing a homely atmosphere for visitors to the Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis ski area.
5. Sierra Nevada – The Sunniest Family Ski Resort in Europe
- 📅 Skiing season: November – May
- 🎿 110 km of slopes, 21 lifts
- 🏔 2100 m – 3300 m above sea level (altitude difference 1200 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 40 km from Granada Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Families, sun-seekers
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 120 (Read more →)
Sierra Nevada is where I head when I want to combine skiing with a touch of Spanish flair. As one of the most famous ski resorts in southern Europe, it offers a unique blend of Mediterranean climate and alpine skiing. The moment you arrive, the sight of snow-capped peaks against a backdrop of blue sky is simply breathtaking.
What sets Sierra Nevada apart is its versatility. With slopes suitable for beginners and intermediates, it’s perfect for families looking to ski with young children. And after a day on the slopes, nothing beats tapas and sangria in one of the resort’s lively bars – it’s après ski with a Spanish twist!
Features: 19 green runs, 41 blue runs, 50 red runs, and 8 black runs provide varied terrain for all levels. The resort offers the highest skiable area in Spain and is suitable for beginners to experts.
Facts: Features the largest night skiing area in Spain, a world-class snow park, multiple ski schools, and 30 restaurants. The resort also offers easy access to the cultural city of Granada.
Best hotels to stay near Sierra Nevada 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Sierra Nevada
- Apartamento Blossom Sierra Nevada – A cozy apartment offering stunning mountain views and easy access to ski slopes, perfect for a ski holiday in Spain.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Inside Plaza Sierra Nevada – Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada ski resort, these modern apartments feature fully-equipped kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and are just a 5-minute walk from the ski lifts.
- Todo Sierra Nevada – A comfortable hotel in Sierra Nevada, offering ski storage, easy access to the slopes, and a great location for exploring the area.
- Royal Country Nevada – A family-friendly hotel providing cozy accommodations, a restaurant, and convenient access to skiing and snowboarding activities.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Apartahotel y Apartamentos Boabdiles – A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and apartments, located close to the ski lifts and local amenities, ideal for young travelers and groups.
6. Grandvalira – The Largest Family Ski Resort in Southern Europe
- 📅 Skiing season: December – April
- 🎿 210 km of slopes, 71 lifts
- 🏔 1710 m – 2640 m above sea level (altitude difference 930 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 180 km from Barcelona Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Families, all levels
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 140 (Read more →)
Grandvalira is where I head when I want to combine world-class skiing with a touch of Andorran charm. As one of the best family-friendly ski resorts in Europe, it offers a unique blend of extensive ski slopes and top-notch facilities for young families. The moment you arrive, the sight of the vast Pyrenean landscape is simply breathtaking.
What sets Grandvalira apart is its size and variety. With over 200 km of ski slopes, it’s perfect for beginners and intermediates looking to ski with young children. And after a day on the slopes, the lively après-ski scene is not to be missed – it’s the perfect way to round off your family ski trip!
Features: 15 green runs, 59 blue runs, 41 red runs, and 22 black runs make this the largest ski area in the Pyrenees, suitable for all levels. The resort is particularly good for beginners and intermediates.
Facts: Offers 7 snow parks, numerous ski schools, over 60 restaurants, and duty-free shopping in nearby towns. The resort also features activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and has several spas.
Best hotels to stay near Grandvalira 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Grandvalira
- Tarter Mountain Suites – Luxurious suites offering easy access to Grandvalira ski area, perfect for a high-end ski holiday experience.
- Pierre & Vacances Andorra El Tarter – Located just 1312 feet from Grandvalira Ski Station, offering apartments with mountain-style decor and various amenities including free WiFi and ski storage.
- Tarter Chalets & Apartaments – Comfortable chalets and apartments providing a cozy mountain experience near Grandvalira.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Club Dorada El Tarter – A mid-range option offering good value for money and convenient access to the Grandvalira ski area.
- Les Terrasses del Tarter – Comfortable accommodations with easy access to the ski slopes of Grandvalira.
7. Baqueira-Beret – The Hidden Family Ski Gem of Spain
- 📅 Skiing season: December – April
- 🎿 160 km of slopes, 35 lifts
- 🏔 1500 m – 2610 m above sea level (altitude difference 1110 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 180 km from Toulouse Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Families, intermediate to advanced
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 160 (Read more →)
Baqueira-Beret is my go-to when I want a perfect ski holiday away from the crowds. This Spanish gem is one of the best ski resorts for families, offering a fantastic range of ski slopes that cater to all levels.
What I love about Baqueira-Beret is its family-friendly atmosphere. With excellent ski schools and plenty of off-slope activities for children, it’s a winter wonderland for young families. And don’t get me started on the food – the aroma of freshly cooked paella wafting from the mountain restaurants is simply irresistible!
Features: 6 green runs, 43 blue runs, 45 red runs, and 1 black run provide diverse terrain for all abilities. The resort is known for its excellent snow quality and varied off-piste opportunities.
Facts: Boasts a modern lift system, multiple ski schools, a snow park, and numerous on-mountain restaurants. The resort offers luxurious accommodations and a vibrant après-ski scene in nearby villages.
Best hotels to stay near Baqueira-Beret 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Baqueira-Beret
- Apartamento Renovado Baqueira 1500 – A newly renovated apartment in Baqueira 1500, offering modern amenities and easy access to the ski slopes.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Noguera de Alma de Nieve – Located in Baqueira-Beret, this apartment offers mountain views, free WiFi, and private parking. Features a terrace and is close to popular points of interest.
- Artiga de Alma de Nieve – A comfortable accommodation option in Baqueira-Beret, offering convenient access to ski facilities.
- Mike by Totiaran – A well-located hotel in Baqueira-Beret, providing comfortable stays for ski enthusiasts.
- Maladeta de Alma de Nieve – Another quality accommodation option in the Baqueira-Beret area, catering to skiers and snowboarders.
8. Söll (SkiWelt – Wilder Kaiser area) – The Affordable Family Ski Paradise
- 📅 Skiing season: December – April
- 🎿 284 km of slopes, 90 lifts
- 🏔 620 m – 1957 m above sea level (altitude difference 1337 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 80 km from Innsbruck Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Families, beginners to intermediate
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 110 (Read more →)
Söll is where I take my family when I want to combine great skiing with Austrian hospitality. As part of the SkiWelt, it’s one of the largest interconnected ski areas in Austria, perfect for families looking for a variety of ski slopes.
What makes Söll special is its value for money. It’s one of the best ski resorts for families on a budget, offering excellent facilities for young children without breaking the bank. After a day on the slopes, don’t miss the chance to warm up with a steaming mug of Glühwein – it’s a local specialty that’ll warm you right up!
Features: 3 green runs, 83 blue runs, 77 red runs, and 21 black runs across the entire SkiWelt area cater to all levels. Söll itself is particularly good for beginners and intermediates.
Facts: The SkiWelt area features 8 snow parks, numerous ski schools, and over 80 mountain huts and restaurants. Söll offers night skiing and is known for its lively après-ski scene.
Best hotels to stay near Söll (SkiWelt – Wilder Kaiser area) 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Söll (SkiWelt – Wilder Kaiser area)
- Apartments Austria – Comfortable apartments offering easy access to the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental ski area, perfect for families and groups.
- Appartements Herold – Well-appointed apartments providing a cozy base for exploring the Söll ski region and surrounding attractions.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Gästehaus Edinger – A charming guesthouse offering a comfortable stay at a reasonable price in the Söll area.
- Haus Dorothea – A cozy accommodation option providing a homely atmosphere for visitors to the SkiWelt region.
- Appartement Haus Schröder – Comfortable apartments offering good value for money and convenient access to the ski slopes.
9. Courchevel – The Luxurious Family Ski Resort
- 📅 Skiing season: December – April
- 🎿 150 km of slopes, 58 lifts
- 🏔 1300 m – 3230 m above sea level (altitude difference 1930 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 110 km from Chambéry Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Families, luxury seekers
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 300 (Read more →)
Courchevel is where I head when I want to combine world-class skiing with a touch of luxury. As one of the most famous ski resorts in France, it offers a unique blend of extensive ski slopes and top-notch facilities for families.
What sets Courchevel apart is its family-friendly atmosphere coupled with high-end amenities. It’s perfect for those looking for the best ski experience with young children. And after a day on the slopes, the Michelin-starred restaurants offer a culinary adventure that’s hard to beat.
Features: 27 green runs, 44 blue runs, 38 red runs, and 10 black runs cater to all abilities. The resort is part of the vast Three Valleys ski area and is known for its excellent grooming and snowmaking.
Facts: Offers multiple ski schools, snow parks, and over 70 restaurants including several Michelin-starred establishments. The resort is famous for its luxury accommodations and high-end shopping.
Best hotels to stay in Courchevel 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Courchevel
- Chalet Emilie – A charming chalet-style accommodation offering a cozy mountain experience in Courchevel.
- Les Peupliers – A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Courchevel Le Praz, offering direct access to ski lifts, wellness facilities, and excellent dining options.
- Le Chalet des Peupliers – A luxurious chalet-style accommodation, likely offering a blend of traditional Alpine charm and modern amenities.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Appartement à Courchevel Saint-Bon – An apartment option for those seeking a home-like atmosphere in Courchevel.
- Lodge Les Merisiers – A mid-range lodge offering comfortable accommodations for ski vacations in Courchevel.
10. Val Gardena – The Picturesque Family Ski Resort
- 📅 Skiing season: December – April
- 🎿 175 km of slopes, 79 lifts
- 🏔 1236 m – 2518 m above sea level (altitude difference 1282 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 120 km from Innsbruck Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Families, scenery lovers
- 🏨 Average price/night: € 190 (Read more →)
Val Gardena is my secret weapon when I want to escape to a family-friendly ski paradise in the heart of the Dolomites. It’s part of the vast Dolomiti Superski area but offers a more intimate, family-oriented experience. The moment you arrive, the stunning Dolomite peaks surrounding you create a fairytale-like atmosphere.
What I love about Val Gardena is its perfect blend of ski slopes for all levels and its commitment to families. The ski schools here are top-notch, making it ideal for young children learning to ski. And after a day on the slopes, the local Ladin cuisine is a treat for the taste buds.
Features: 12 blue runs, 24 red runs, and 5 black runs in the immediate area, with access to the vast Dolomiti Superski region. The resort is particularly good for intermediate to advanced skiers.
Facts: Features multiple ski schools, snow parks, and numerous mountain huts serving traditional South Tyrolean cuisine. The resort offers access to the famous Sella Ronda ski circuit and has a rich Ladin cultural heritage.
Best hotels to stay near Val Gardena 🏨
⭐ Best hotels near Val Gardena
- Locazione Turistica Plan de Socrep – A charming accommodation option offering a comfortable stay in the heart of Val Gardena, with easy access to ski slopes and local attractions.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Appartments Insam – Well-appointed apartments providing a cozy base for exploring the Val Gardena ski region and surrounding Dolomites.
- Villa Otto – A comfortable villa option offering a homely atmosphere for visitors to Val Gardena.
- Apartment Puciacia Bauernhof – A rustic apartment on a farm, providing a unique and authentic experience in Val Gardena.
- Apartment Sabrina – Cozy apartments in Santa Cristina, offering convenient access to the ski slopes of Val Gardena.
FAQs About Family Ski Holiday in Europe ❔
Which European ski resorts offer the best combination of excellent ski schools, beginner slopes, and off-slope family fun for those new to skiing or families with young children?
Some of the best European ski resorts for families with young children include Avoriaz in the Portes du Soleil ski area, Alpe d’Huez in France, and Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis in Austria. These resorts offer excellent ski schools, beginner-friendly slopes.
How do the ski areas and lift systems in the French Alps, such as the Three Valleys or Espace Killy, compare to other popular ski destinations in Europe for families?
The Three Valleys ski area in France, which includes resorts like Courchevel and Méribel, is one of the largest ski areas in the world and offers a fantastic family ski experience.
What are the top family-friendly ski resorts in the Alps that provide free ski passes for children, a variety of ski lessons, and a great après-ski atmosphere for the whole family to enjoy?
When planning a family ski holiday, look for resorts with child-friendly facilities such as dedicated beginners’ ski areas, ski and snowboard schools with programs for young children, and free ski buses. Resorts like Val d’Isère in the Espace Killy ski area or those in the Portes du Soleil region often offer these amenities.
