Top 10 Best Family Ski Resorts in France 2024

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Top 10 Best Family Ski Resorts in France (2024)

Skiing in France offers an unforgettable experience, especially for families seeking thrilling adventures and cosy getaways during a half-term break or holiday season. With an array of resorts to choose from, each boasting unique features and attractions, selecting the perfect destination can be overwhelming. Fear not! We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the top 10 best family ski resorts in France, ensuring an exhilarating and memorable winter vacation for you and your loved ones.

Table of Contents

What Makes a Resort Family-Friendly?

Before diving into the list of the best family ski resorts in France, it’s crucial to understand what defines a resort as family-friendly. One indicator is the “Famille Plus Montagne” accreditation by the French Ministry of Tourism. This accreditation signifies that a resort has met specific criteria to ensure a welcoming environment for families, including childcare facilities, entertainment options for all ages, dedicated beginner slopes, and family-friendly accommodations. It’s worth noting that all the resorts listed in this article have achieved the “Famille Plus Montagne” accreditation, guaranteeing a memorable and enjoyable experience for families of all ages.

For more in depth information regarding “Famille Plus Montagne” please refer to the official website by clicking here.

Understanding Pistes: The Heartbeat of Ski Resorts

Now that we’ve covered what makes a resort family-friendly, let’s delve into the term “pistes.” A “piste” refers to a marked ski run or slope found in ski resorts, typically groomed and maintained for skiing or snowboarding. Pistes vary in difficulty, catering to skiers of all skill levels, including:

  • Green Pistes: Beginner slopes ideal for novice skiers.
  • Blue Pistes: Intermediate runs for skiers looking to progress.
  • Red Pistes: Advanced terrain offering a thrilling experience.
  • Black Pistes: Expert slopes reserved for seasoned skiers seeking a challenge.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of pistes, let’s explore the Top 10 Best Family Ski Resorts in France for Half-Term, each offering its unique blend of adventure, comfort, and entertainment.

Please note that this list is in no particular order.

1. Alpe d’Huez

Budget Type: Moderate to High

Alpe d’Huez, nestled in the French Alps, is renowned for its extensive ski area, boasting over 250 kilometres of pistes catering to skiers of all levels. Families are drawn to its family-friendly facilities, including ski schools and childcare services, ensuring parents can hit the slopes with peace of mind. Luxury amenities abound, with upscale accommodations offering panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. Indulge in delectable French cuisine at quaint mountain restaurants, unwind at cosy bars, or explore the charming shops lining the streets.

Off-Slope Activities for Families in Alpe d’Huez :

  • Adventure and Sports: Snowshoeing, Ice Skating, Snowmobiling, Snow Tubing, Ice Karting, Paragliding, Husky Sledging, Winter Hiking Trails.
  • Nature, Relaxation and Culture: Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides, Torchlit Descents, Indoor Swimming Pools, Spa and Wellness Centres, Local Museums.
  • Entertainment: Cinema, Climbing Walls, Karaoke.

 

2. Courchevel

Budget Type: High

Courchevel, part of the expansive Three Valleys ski area, is synonymous with luxury and elegance. Boasting world-class amenities and impeccable service, this resort caters to families seeking a lavish ski holiday. With over 150 kilometres of pistes and an abundance of family-friendly slopes, Courchevel offers endless skiing opportunities for all skill levels. Indulge in gourmet dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, sip après-ski cocktails at chic lounges, or browse designer boutiques for the latest winter fashion.

Off-Slope Activities for Families in Courchevel:

  • Adventure and Sports: Husky Sledging, Snow Tubing, Tobogganing, Snowshoeing, Ice Climbing. Snowmobiling, Ice Skating.
  • Nature, Relaxation and Culture: Luxury Spa & Wellness Centres, Wildlife Discovery Tours, Hot Air Balloon Rides, Art Workshops, Cooking Classes.
  • Entertainment: Trampoline Parks, Escape Rooms, Bowling Alleys. Children’s Play Centres.

 

3. Les 2 Alpes

Budget Type: Moderate to High

Les 2 Alpes, nestled in the picturesque Oisans Valley, is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Boasting one of the largest skiable glaciers in Europe (Le Glacier de Mont-de-Lans), this resort offers guaranteed snow throughout the season, making it ideal for half-term holidays. Families will appreciate the wide range of accommodations, from cosy chalets to luxury hotels, and the plethora of family-friendly facilities available. Indulge in après-ski delights at lively bars, sample regional specialities at traditional eateries, or explore the vibrant nightlife scene.

Off-Slope Activities for Families in Les 2 Alpes:

  • Adventure and Sports: Glacier Skiing, Snow Biking, Snowshoeing, Ice Cave Explorations, Snowmobiling, Bob-Sleighing, Climbing, Ice Skating, Sledging, Ice Karting, Paint-balling, Archery, Ziplining.
  • Nature, Relaxation and Culture: Wildlife Discovery Tours, Hot Air Balloon Rides, Yoga and Meditation Classes.
  • Entertainment: Trampolining Parks, Outdoor Playgrounds, Indoor Amusement Parks, Arts and Crafts Workshops.

 

4. Les Menuires

Budget Type: Moderate

Les Menuires, nestled in the heart of the Three Valleys ski area, is a hidden gem for families seeking a winter wonderland escape. With over 160 kilometres of pistes and a range of family-friendly amenities, this resort offers something for everyone. Families can enjoy ski-in/ski-out accommodations, convenient childcare services, and a variety of dining options catering to all tastes. After a day on the slopes, unwind with après-ski entertainment or explore the charming village centre.

Off-Slope Activities for Families in Les Menuires:

  • Adventure and Sports: Tobogganing, Ice Fishing, Cross-Country Skiing, Fat Biking, Ice Climbing, Husky Sledging, Winter Hiking Trails.
  • Nature, Relaxation and Culture: Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides, Winter Picnics, Wildlife Spotting Tours, Ski JoΓ«ring, Photography Workshops.
  • Entertainment: Snowball Fights, Snow Sculpture Competitions, Ice Hockey Matches, Indoor Trampoline Parks, Storytelling Sessions.

 

5. Meribel

Budget Type: High

Meribel, nestled in the heart of the Three Valleys, is a picturesque resort renowned for its stunning alpine scenery and exceptional skiing terrain. Families flock to Meribel for its family-friendly atmosphere, extensive ski area, and charming village ambiance. With over 600 kilometres of pistes accessible via modern ski lifts, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had. Indulge in savory mountain cuisine at rustic chalet restaurants, sip mulled wine at cosy bars, or browse boutique shops for souvenirs.

Off-Slope Activities for Families in Meribel:

  • Adventure and Sports: Tobogganing, Ice Skating, Snow Tubing, Snowshoeing, Snowmobiling, Ice Climbing, Paragliding, Husky Sledging, Ice Diving, Family-Friendly Ski Races, Winter Hiking Trails.
  • Nature, Relaxation and Culture: Wildlife Spotting Tours, Indoor Swimming Pools, Spa and Wellness Centres, Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides, Geocaching.
  • Entertainment: Cinema, Arts and Crafts Workshops, Alpine Coaster Rides, Indoor Climbing Walls, Ice Hockey Matches, Astronomy Evenings.

 

6. La Plagne

Budget Type: Moderate

La Plagne, located in the Tarentaise Valley and part of the Paradiski ski area, is an alpine playground for families seeking adventure and excitement. With over 225 kilometres of pistes and a range of family-friendly amenities, this resort offers something for everyone. Families can choose from a variety of accommodations, from cosy apartments to chalet-style hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay. Indulge in traditional Savoyard cuisine at mountain restaurants, unwind at aprΓ¨s-ski bars, or explore the village’s shops and boutiques.

Off-Slope Activities for Families in La Plagne:

  • Adventure and Sports: Tobogganing, Ice Climbing, Snowshoe Treasure Hunts, Snow Tubing, Ice Karting, Paragliding, Winter Hiking Trails, Ziplining, Archery Lessons.
  • Nature, Relaxation and Culture: Luxury Wellness Spa Centres, Indoor Swimming Pools, Yoga, Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides, Wildlife Spotting Tours, Local Museums, Night-time Torchlit Descents.
  • Entertainment: Cinema, Karaoke, Indoor Play Centres, Snowball Fights, Mini-golf, Igloo Building Sessions, Arts and Crafts Workshops, Ice Hockey Matches, Curling Tournaments.

 

7. Val d’IsΓ¨re & Tignes

Budget Type: Moderate to High

Val d’IsΓ¨re and Tignes, located in the Espace Killy ski area, are renowned for their exceptional skiing terrain and vibrant apres-ski scene. With over 300 kilometres of pistes and a range of family-friendly amenities, these resorts offer something for everyone. Families can choose from a variety of accommodations, from cozy chalets to luxury hotels, and enjoy easy access to the slopes via modern ski lifts. Indulge in gourmet dining at upscale restaurants, sample local specialties at traditional eateries, or unwind with aprΓ¨s-ski drinks at lively bars.

Off-Slope Activities for Families in Val d’Isere & Tignes :

  • Adventure and Sports: Tobogganing, Snowmobiling, Ice Climbing, Snowshoeing, Ice Skating, Paragliding, Winter Hiking Trails, Husky Sledging.
  • Nature, Relaxation and Culture: Wellness Spa Days, Indoor Swimming Pools, Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides, Wildlife Spotting Tours, Local Museums, Night-time Torchlit Descents, Wine Tasting Tours.
  • Entertainment: Cinema, Ice Hockey Matches, Indoor Climbing and Play Centres, Trampoline Parks

 

8. Val Thorens

Budget Type: High

Val Thorens, nestled in the heart of the Three Valleys, is the ultimate ski destination for families seeking adventure and excitement. Boasting the highest altitude resort in Europe perched at 2,300 metres, Val Thorens offers guaranteed snow throughout the season, ensuring optimal skiing conditions for all. Families will appreciate the range of accommodations, from cozy apartments to luxurious chalets, and the plethora of family-friendly facilities available. Indulge in culinary delights at mountain restaurants, unwind at après-ski bars, or explore the vibrant nightlife scene.

Off-Slope Activities for Families in Val Thorens:

  • Adventure and Sports: Tobogganing, Snow Tubing, Snowshoeing, Ice Karting, Ice Skating, Paragliding, Winter Hiking Trails, Snow Biking, Fat Biking, Ziplining.
  • Nature, Relaxation and Culture: Indoor Swimming Pools, Spa and Wellness Centers, Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides, Ski JoΓ«ring, Wildlife Spotting Tours, Local Museums.
  • Entertainment: Cinema, Bowling Alleys, Karaoke, Children’s Play Areas, Mini-golf, Snowball Fights, Indoor Trampoline Parks.

 

9. Valmorel

Budget Type: Moderate

Valmorel, nestled in the Tarentaise Valley, is a hidden gem in the French Alps, offering a perfect blend of charm and adventure for families. With over 150 kilometres of pistes and a range of family-friendly amenities, this resort caters to skiers of all levels. Families can choose from cosy chalets, apartments, or upscale hotels, all within walking distance of the slopes. Enjoy delicious Savoyard cuisine at traditional mountain restaurants, relax at après-ski bars, or explore the pedestrian-friendly village centre.

Off-Slope Activities for Families in Valmorel:

  • Adventure and Sports: Tobogganing, Snow Tubing, Snowshoeing, Ice Skating, Snowmobiling, Ice Climbing, Winter Hiking Trails, Husky sledging, Archery Lessons.
  • Nature, Relaxation and Culture: Indoor Swimming Pools, Spa and Wellness Centres, Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides, Wildlife Spotting Tours, Local Museums, Night-time Torchlit Descents.
  • Entertainment: Cinema, Live Music Performances, Indoor Climbing Walls, Arts and Crafts Workshops, Snow Sculpture Competitions.

 

10. Les Gets

Budget Type: Moderate

Les Gets, part of the Portes du Soleil ski area, is a charming ski resort offering a quintessential alpine experience for families. With over 650 kilometres of pistes and breathtaking mountain views, this resort is perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities.Families can choose from a range of accommodations, including cosy chalets and family-friendly hotels, all within walking distance of the slopes. Enjoy traditional Savoyard cuisine at mountain restaurants, and explore the resort’s charming village centre, filled with shops andΒ cafes.

Off-Slope Activities for Families in Les Gets:

  • Adventure and Sports: Tobogganing, Snow Tubing, Snowshoeing, Ice Skating, Snowmobiling, Ice Climbing, Winter Hiking Trails, Paragliding.
  • Nature, Relaxation and Culture: Indoor Swimming Pools, Spa and Wellness Centres, Yoga Classes, Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides, Wildlife Spotting Tours, Local Museums, Nighttime Torchlit Descent,Β  Photography Workshops
  • Entertainment: Cinema, Live Music Performances, Indoor Play Centres, Adventure Parks, Trampoline Parks.

 

Unleash Your Family’s Winter Wonderland: Choose France for Unforgettable Ski Adventures!

Embark on an unforgettable winter adventure with your family at one of these Top 10 Best Family Ski Resorts in France for Half-Term. From world-class skiing and snowboarding to cosy accommodations and vibrant aprΓ¨s-ski activities, these resorts promise an unforgettable experience for families of all ages. Whether you’re seeking thrills on the slopes or relaxation in the mountains, France’s ski resorts have something for everyone.

Make Your Family’s Favourite Ski Resort Your Permanent Haven:

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  • Maximise your investment: When you’re not enjoying your winter wonderland, rent out your property for lucrative returns. We can help you connect with reliable property management services to ensure a hassle-free rental experience.

Stop dreaming, start living! Let’s create lasting memories in the French Alps, together!

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Contact Worldwide Property Co. today and book your FREE consultation to let us help you transform your family’s favourite ski resort into your permanent alpine haven.

Ski Resort Terminology

 

What is Tobogganing?

Tobogganing refers to the activity of riding on a sledge down a snow-covered hill or slope, typically for recreational enjoyment.

 

What is Snow Tubing?

Snow tubing involves sliding down a snow-covered slope while sitting in an inflatable tube/ring, providing a thrilling experience for participants of all ages.

 

What is Snowshoeing?

Snowshoeing is a winter sport that involves walking or hiking over snow-covered terrain using specially designed footwear called snowshoes, which distribute the wearer’s weight over a larger area to prevent sinking into the snow.

 

What is Snowmobiling?

Snowmobiling is the recreational activity of riding a motorised vehicle, known as a snowmobile or snow machine, over snow-covered terrain for enjoyment or transportation purposes.

 

What is Paragliding?

Paragliding is an adventure sport that involves flying a lightweight, free-flying glider aircraft with no rigid primary structure, allowing pilots to soar through the air using wind currents and thermals.

 

What is Ice Diving?

Ice diving is a form of diving that takes place under ice-covered bodies of water, such as frozen lakes or rivers, requiring specialised equipment and training to ensure safety in cold water conditions.

 

What is Ice Climbing?

Ice climbing is the sport of ascending ice formations such as frozen waterfalls, glaciers, and ice-covered cliffs using specialised equipment, including ice axes, crampons, and ropes.

 

What is Ice Karting?

Ice karting, also known as ice kart racing, is a thrilling motorsport activity that involves driving go-karts equipped with studded tires on an ice-covered track, providing an exhilarating racing experience in icy conditions.

 

What is Ziplining?

Zip lining, also known as aerial runway or zip wire, is an adventure activity that involves sliding along a suspended cable or rope attached to an incline, allowing participants to travel from one point to another at high speed.

 

What is Ice Fishing?

Ice fishing is the practice of catching fish through a hole drilled in a frozen body of water, such as a lake or river, using specialized equipment such as ice augers, fishing rods, and tip-ups.

 

What is Fat Biking?

Fat biking, also known as snow biking, is a form of cycling that involves riding bicycles equipped with wide, oversized tires designed to traverse snow-covered terrain, providing an exciting winter riding experience.

 

What is Cross-Country Skiing?

Cross-country skiing, also known as Nordic skiing, is a winter sport that involves skiing across flat or undulating terrain using skis and poles, with techniques varying from classic to skate skiing.

 

What is Ski JoΓ«ring?

Ski joΓ«ring is a winter sport that involves being pulled on skis behind a horse, dog, or motorised vehicle, allowing participants to glide over snow-covered terrain while being towed by the pulling animal or vehicle.

 

What is Snow Biking?

Snow biking refers to the activity of riding bike equipped with a specialised track system or skis, designed to navigate snow-covered terrain. Snow bikes provide an exhilarating experience for riders seeking adventure in winter conditions.

 

What are Night-time Torchlit Descents?

Night-time torchlit descents are organised events, usually for charities, where skiers or snowboarders descend a ski slope illuminated by torches or flares, creating a magical and festive atmosphere after dark.

 

What is Après Ski?

AprΓ¨s ski, a term derived from French meaning “after skiing,” refers to the social activities and entertainment that take place after a day of skiing or snowboarding. It typically includes gathering at bars, restaurants, or lodges near the slopes to enjoy drinks, food, music, and camaraderie with fellow skiers and snowboarders. AprΓ¨s ski is an integral part of the ski resort experience, offering a chance to unwind, celebrate, and share stories of the day’s adventures on the slopes.

FAQs

Are ski lessons offered to children at French ski resorts?Β 

Ski lessons for children are readily available at all of these resorts, with certified instructors offering group and private lessons tailored to each child’s skill level.

What childcare services are offered at French ski resorts?Β 

Childcare services vary by resort but typically include daycare facilities, kids’ clubs, and babysitting services, allowing parents to enjoy the slopes worry-free.

Are there any non-skiing activities for families to enjoy at these French ski resorts?Β 

Yes, each resort offers a variety of off-slope activities, including snowshoeing, ice skating, snow tubing, sleigh rides, and more, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.

Are there accommodations in French ski resorts suitable for large families?Β 

Yes, many resorts offer accommodations ranging from spacious chalets to interconnected rooms, ideal for large families or groups traveling together.

What dining options are available for families in French ski resorts?Β 

Families can enjoy a range of dining options at each resort, including family-friendly restaurants serving hearty mountain fare, casual cafes, and convenient takeaway options.

Are there any French ski resort special events or festivals during the half-term period?

Yes, many resorts host special events and festivals during the half-term period, including fireworks displays, torchlit descents, children’s entertainment, and live music performances. Check each resort’s official website for information on all their events.

Is rental equipment available at French ski resorts?

Yes, most of these resorts offer rental equipment including skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, and other gear, making it convenient for families who prefer not to bring their own equipment or it’s their first time skiing or snowboarding. Rental shops typically provide a range of equipment suitable for all ages and skill levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the slopes comfortably and safely.

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