This is a collaborative post
Family holidays later in 2020 or 2021 might feel like a while away right now, but we have to remain hopeful that (once it’s safe for all concerned) some sort of normality will resume and we can all plan much-needed breaks away to rest and recuperate.
For something a little different, have you ever considered taking your tribe on a French Alps skiing holiday?
Apart from the stunning scenery, skiing and snowboarding are fun and healthy activities for enthusiasts of all levels and there’s nothing nicer than cosying up in a ski chalet or apartment after an exciting day on the slopes (or sneaking out for a couple of afternoon après-ski drinks when you’ve arranged childcare).
If this sounds right up your street, take a look at these three family-friendly French Alps ski resorts.
1. Avoriaz
Perched on a south-facing plateau above the Morzine Valley in the popular Portes du Soleil ski area, Avoriaz is a high-altitude, snow-sure resort that offers pristine powder all year round.
And it’s well set up for kids, with an English language ESF ski school offering lessons for the whole family and the Village des Enfants academy which accepts three to 16 year olds and develops them at a steady pace. Geneva To Morzine transfers are fairly affordable.
Tip: Avoriaz laser game and archery tag are excellent off-slope activities for kids.
2. La Rosière
Nestled at 1850m high in the Haute Tarentaise ski area, La Rosière is part of the famous French/Italian San Bernardo ski area in the North Alps.
This resort has been awarded Famille Plus Montagne status because it’s so family-friendly and facilities are truly excellent – you’ll find expert ski lessons for absolute beginners, husky dog sledging, ice skating, snow kiting, ten pin bowling, a cinema and more. If you require childcare, Les Galopins Kids Club caters capably for children between 18 months and 13 years old.
Tip: ski holiday experts Erna Low can arrange a customised La Rosière package in a few clicks.
3. Méribel
If Alpine skiing conjures up images of chocolate box chalets, fresh powder and breath-taking scenery, Méribel delivers all of the above and much more.
Located bang in the middle of the Three Valleys, the world’s largest ski area, this quality resort satisfies all types of families.
There are sledge runs set up for kids throughout the resort with crash mats and toilet facilities, but there are also several super themed areas for young skiers, the newest of which is an inspirational Inuit village in the Altiport area which has a mini-slalom, plenty of whoops (gentle jumps) and Inuit-themed activities.
Tip: childcare gurus T4 Nanny can look after your little ones if you want to spend an afternoon alone on the slopes.
These three family-friendly ski resorts are simply the tip of the Alpine iceberg, but hopefully they’ve provided food for thought as you start to tentatively think about your next big break with your kids in tow.
What’s your favourite French ski resort? Share your tips in the comments section.