Planning a family ski trip in Europe is as much about creating lifelong memories as it is about carving fresh tracks in the snow. Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of exploring some truly magical resorts—from the charming slopes of Grindelwald in Switzerland to the enchanting French Pyrenees at Tourmalet Pic du Midi, and I can’t leave out our fun-filled days in the Italian Alps at Ponte di Legno, Italy.
There’s something special about European ski resorts that instantly makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a snow globe. I grew up skiing in Colorado. My parents were hard-core skiers, hitting the slopes in the early morning hours every Saturday for many years. While Colorado ski resorts offer breathtaking beauty, the European ski experience has a unique charm all its own, with a vibe that feels truly one-of-a-kind. The quaint cities, fun culture, amazing food…it all adds to the overall magic.
Our family adventures have taught us that when it comes to skiing with kids, choosing a resort with a warm, welcoming vibe and plenty of activities off the slopes is just as important as great skiing. One of the things I love about Europe is how often the slopes are just steps away from the accommodations. It’s such a contrast to the huge resorts where you can spend 15-20 minutes just walking from the parking lot. When you’re hauling skis for both yourself and your kids, it can make any parent want to throw in the towel and stay home!
Whether it’s wandering the picturesque village streets, taking in the panoramic views, or savoring cozy food, each destination has its own character that caters wonderfully to families. Here’s our friendly, hands-on guide to making the most of your European ski getaway with the kids!
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Europe is brimming with family-friendly resorts. Here are five top picks that have delighted us (and might just charm you, too).
Several hotels have scenic views of the Alps. You’ll surely love your stay in Grindelwald during winter!
Grindelwald has quickly become one of our go-to resorts for a magical winter escape. Nestled in a postcard-perfect Alpine setting, this Swiss gem not only boasts breathtaking views but also a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for families. It’s easily accessible by train from Zurich, and there’s no need for a car once you’re there. The city is very walkable, and the bus takes you right to the slope in case you aren’t walking from your hotel.
Our Insights:
The gentle slopes in the beginner areas are ideal for first-timers and little adventurers. Grace, our youngest, skied for the first time here, and we all loved the experience.
Note that going all the way to the top with new skiers is tough. They do have a small beginner area at the top, but getting all the way down the mountain with a newer skier can be really hard. We did that! It took hours, as the slope is very long. The alternative is to take the train back down the mountain instead.
We found that the local ski schools are exceptionally patient, making it easier for kids to pick up the basics.
Top Tips:
Book your ski passes in advance to ensure you lock in the best rates, as prices typically range from €40–€60 per day. Accommodations are around €200–€300 per night.
Consider accommodations in the heart of the village, where you’re steps away from both the slopes and charming local shops.
Take time to explore nearby winter hikes and enjoy a hot cocoa in a quaint mountain café.
Highlights: Breathtaking mountain scenery, gentle slopes for beginners, and plenty of off-slope activities.
We had a blast exploring the French Pyrenees, thanks to the good weather!
Our adventures in the French Pyrenees at Tourmalet Pic du Midi were nothing short of exhilarating. This region offers a unique blend of rugged mountain terrain with family-friendly features, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a little off-the-beaten-path excitement. Plus, it’s in France, so all the food is spectacular!
Our Insights:
The slopes here are a delightful mix of challenges for both beginners and intermediate skiers, making it great for families with varied skill levels. Our youngest had lots of areas to practice, and the older kids could go off to harder slopes on their own as the resort is relatively small.
We appreciated the relaxed vibe that lets parents and kids enjoy the mountain atmosphere at their own pace.
Grabbing some cheese fondue with this stunning view as your background is a core memory!
Cheese fondue set against the French Alps? Yes, please!
Top Tips:
Expect daily ski passes to be around €35–€55—great value for a day packed with adventure, and hotels or chalets usually fall in the €180–€280 per night range.
We stayed in an amazing Airbnb about a 20-minute drive from the slopes. It’s a converted farmhouse with a hot tub and sauna. We loved it!
Pack layers and check weather updates frequently as mountain conditions can change rapidly. Some of the slopes are exposed to weather, and conditions can change very quickly!
Snow conditions vary greatly in Europe. Rather than trying to make artificial snow, they still depend on storms to dump snow into these huge mountains, which means conditions might be variable. We didn’t have the best snow on our visit but still loved the skiing.
Take the tram up to the Pic du Midi, an exploration tower in the Pyrenees. The small museum and cafe are a delight!
Explore local eateries after skiing for a taste of authentic mountain cuisine; the region is known for its hearty, comforting dishes.
Highlights: A unique blend of challenging runs and child-friendly slopes, set against dramatic mountain backdrops.
Getting ready to ski in Ponte di Legno Tonale each morning was so easy, with our hotel just steps away from the slopes!
Ponte di Legno Tonale brings an unmistakable Italian flair to the ski scene. Our time here was filled with laughter, delicious food, and slopes that cater to all ages. We discovered an Italian parent gem, tucked away in the stunning Alps, 2.5 hours outside of Milan.
Our Insights:
The Italian approach to skiing is all about enjoying life—good food, friendly locals, and a relaxed pace.
We loved how the ski schools here mix expert instruction with a fun, engaging environment that puts kids at ease. Our kids came home with “dollars” they earned for skiing backward!
The indoor water park in our hotel was such a joy to look forward to after skiing! We spent hours enjoying the pool. Parents can also go to the 18+ Sky Spa, an amazing retreat in the Sporting Hotel!
Kids can also enjoy sledding and inflatables at the bottom of the slopes, or the traditional light torch ski run for kids on Wednesdays.
Top Tips:
Ski passes typically cost between €30–€50 per day, making it a budget-friendly option for families.
Delicious Italian pizza on the slopes and excellent hot chocolate were highlights during our breaks from skiing.
Choose accommodations that are within walking distance of the lifts to save time and energy, especially with little ones in tow. Prices start at about €150 per night.
Highlights: Italian flair with excellent ski schools, delectable local cuisine, and slopes that suit all skill levels.
Morzine is like stepping into a winter fairytale. With its cobblestone streets, charming chalets, and lively ski culture, it’s no wonder this destination is a favorite among families.
Our Insights:
The town’s friendly ambiance makes it easy to navigate with children, and the ski schools here are renowned for their excellent, tailored programs.
They have all kinds of off-slope activities—from exploring the local markets to enjoying winter festivals—that really enhance the family experience.
Top Tips:
Daily ski passes usually run around €40–€60; booking early can help secure a discount, and accommodations average €200–€300 per night.
Spend an afternoon strolling through the village to soak in the atmosphere and perhaps discover a hidden gem of a café.
Look for family packages that bundle lessons and equipment rentals to simplify your planning.
Highlights: A postcard-perfect Alpine village known for its excellent ski schools and charming, cobblestone streets.
Often considered a hidden gem, Kranjska Gora offers incredible value without compromising on quality. This resort is perfect for families who prefer a less crowded, more relaxed skiing environment.
Our Insights:
Kranjska Gora impressed us with its affordability and charm—a wonderful mix for budget-conscious travelers looking for an authentic experience.
The resort’s friendly staff and well-maintained slopes make it easy for kids to learn and enjoy skiing.
Top Tips:
With daily ski passes around €25–€40, this resort is ideal for families aiming to get the best bang for their buck.
Check out the local family-friendly events and activities that often take place during the season, offering a break from the slopes.
Ensure you choose accommodations that offer shuttle services to the slopes, enhancing convenience and safety for your little ones.
Highlights: Awarded as one of the best value family ski resorts in Europe, it offers fewer crowds and great beginner slopes.
Tips To Choose the Best Ski Hotels in Europe
Sport Hotel Tonale offers spacious rooms for families and is within walking distance of the slopes in Ponte di Legno Tonale, Italy.
Finding the perfect home away from home is crucial for a stress-free family ski holiday. From charming chalets tucked away in snowy villages to modern hotels with ski-in/ski-out access, the right accommodation can make all the difference. Here are some detailed tips to help you choose the best ski hotels in Europe, along with a prime example from our travels.
Location and Proximity
Convenient access to the slopes. Ideally, your accommodation should be a short walk or shuttle ride from the ski lifts and slopes. This means less time shuttling back and forth and more time enjoying the mountain. It also means less whining!
Local amenities and transport, Look for hotels that provide easy access to local attractions, dining options, and transport services. At many resorts, your ski pass can even double as transportation on gondolas and trains—adding extra value to your stay.
Full/half board options. Europe nearly always offers meal plans with your stay. This is not only affordable but takes the hassle out of where you will eat each night. The atmosphere hints at a large family meal with friendships being made between tables.
Note: Half board includes breakfast and dinner. Full board is three meals a day. More on this below!
Hotel Amenities. While proximity to the slopes takes top priority, what is available at the hotel at the end of your ski day can be equally important. We had a great family suite to enjoy and an indoor water park for hours of fun.
Chalet vs. Hotel: What’s Right for Your Family?
Chalets:
Home-like comfort. Chalets often offer a fully serviced experience with private lounge areas where kids can relax between runs.
Family amenities. Look for features such as bottle sterilizers, highchairs, and dedicated play areas that can make life easier when traveling with little ones.
Privacy and space. With a chalet, you often have the benefit of more space and a homely atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding after a busy day on the slopes.
Hotels:
Ski-in/Ski-out access. Hotels that offer ski-in/ski-out facilities ensure you’re never far from the action.
Concierge services: A dedicated concierge who can handle ski fittings, equipment rentals, and even local recommendations can be a real game-changer.
Family-friendly “Chill Zones”. Many hotels now feature relaxed lounge areas or family rooms where kids can hang out safely while parents enjoy a quiet moment.
Other Considerations
Room size. Ensure that the rooms or suites are spacious enough for your family. Look for options that offer separate sleeping areas for parents and kids, so everyone can get a good night’s sleep.
Dining options and meal plans. European hotels often offer half or full-board packages that include breakfast and dinner (more below). This can simplify your schedule and ensure that you enjoy quality, family-friendly meals without the hassle of finding restaurants after a long day of skiing.
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask the hotel staff for local tips. Whether it’s the best nearby restaurant serving authentic local food or a quiet spot for hot chocolate with a view.
Should I Choose Half or Full-Board Ski Bookings?
You can sit and soak in the views while having breakfast right on the terrace. Tourmalet Pic du Midi, France.
One of the best ways to simplify your ski holiday is to opt for half or full-board bookings. European hotels often include attractive meal plans that mean you don’t have to stress about dinner plans after a long day on the slopes.
Full Board: Enjoy three hearty meals a day—perfect for refueling after all that skiing.
Half Board: Start with a hot continental breakfast and wind down with a delicious dinner.
Not only does this set-up offer a “big family” feel with large dining rooms and assigned table numbers, but it also helps manage budgets by bundling meals with your accommodation. Plus, you get benefits like lower rental and ticket prices, no tipping on lessons, and even child-friendly extras that ensure everyone—from toddlers to tweens—has a great time.
Dining in European Hotels
Dining in European hotels has its perks, like this amazing cheese fondue we had in France!
One of our favorite perks of staying in European resorts is the dining experience. European hotels often bundle meal plans into their packages, offering a seamless experience from check-in to check-out.
Why We Love It:
No need to worry about finding a restaurant after a long day on the slopes.
Large dining rooms create a cozy, “big family” atmosphere with assigned tables that become a nightly ritual.
With full board, you enjoy three meals a day, while half board covers a hearty breakfast and a sumptuous dinner, ensuring quality and consistency.
These meal plans are budget-friendly and provide options for child-friendly menus and local specialties that the whole family will appreciate.
During our stay in Italy, we selected our dinner menu the night before and had an assigned table. Kids enjoyed the kids’ menu while adults had a fabulous 4-course meal, all included! We only paid for our extra soda.
Tips for Skiing With Kids in Europe
Choosing the right resort is what makes this ski trip special—Jungfrau, Switzerland.
Every family ski trip is unique, but here are some universal tips that have served us well:
Start with the right resort. Choose a destination with quality ski schools that offer age-specific lessons and are close to your chalet or hotel. A resort with plenty to do on off days—from ice skating to tobogganing—can help beat cabin fever.
Plan for off-slope entertainment. Ensure that the town center or hotel has activities to keep the kids entertained on white-out days. Look for resorts with cozy cafés, local markets, or even indoor play areas.
Pre-book childcare. Avoid last-minute stress by confirming details with the resort’s kid’s club or arranging a trusted nanny in advance. Always double-check the age requirements and the availability of a reservation in case of unforeseen changes.
Opt for convenience. A ski-in/ski-out setup or a location with easy access to lifts and ski schools makes a huge difference, especially when managing little ones in ski boots and heavy jackets.
Pack smart and plan meals. If you’re staying in a chalet, collaborate with the host to pre-order breakfast goodies like fresh pastries and baguettes—kids go crazy for them! For hotels, check that they offer early kids’ supper options so you can enjoy a grown-up dinner later.
Embrace the long runs. Ski runs can be fantastically long and plentiful. However, note that little skiers might not be ready to conquer an entire run. We recommend using the train or gondola to get back down once they’ve had a go at the practice areas.
Enjoy stellar ski etiquette. European ski etiquette is top-notch. Prepare your kids for the dos and don’ts on the slopes; you’ll find that everyone—from fellow skiers to ski instructors—is courteous and patient.
Renting made easy. Renting ski equipment can be a breeze. All of our European ski rentals so far have been easy with decent to great equipment. Just bring your own goggles, as these are not typically rented out.
Know your ski run colors.
Blue Runs: The easiest slopes, characterized by long, gentle stretches—perfect for beginners.
Red Runs: These offer a moderate challenge and are similar to blue runs in the USA, though you might encounter a few moguls.
Black Runs: Reserved for experts—our older kids, who have been on ski teams, found these runs both challenging and exhilarating.
Savor the local cuisine. Enjoy delicious local dishes while taking in jaw-dropping mountain views. Keep in mind that dining out can be pricey, so you might also consider packing lunch and eating in designated areas when you’re not ready to splurge.
Transportation perks. Your ski or sledding passes usually include transportation via gondolas and trains. In fact, when visiting landmarks like the Top of Europe, it might be more cost-effective to opt for a hiking pass that includes the train ride up the mountain.
Indulge in local shopping. After a day on the slopes, take a moment to explore the area, pick up local souvenirs, and treat yourself with hot chocolate or a warm meal.
Typical European resort perks. We’ve found these features to be common across Europe:
Child entertainment. Some resorts offer engaging programs and activities to keep your children happily occupied both on and off the slopes.
Lower rental and ticket prices. Skiing in Europe is so much cheaper! A pass in my home state of Colorado can set you back $200+ per day, whereas most of Europe is closer to 60€. Some destinations offer competitive rates on equipment rentals and lift tickets, stretching your budget further.
No tipping on lessons. Enjoy quality ski instruction without the added expense of tipping—a welcome bonus for budget-conscious families.
Attitude towards children: Choose resorts with a genuinely family-friendly vibe, where staff are attentive and accommodating to the needs of younger skiers.
Closeness to the slopes. Being near the slopes minimizes travel time and maximizes your skiing time, making it easier to manage the day with kids.
Not lacking in tech. Modern resorts with up-to-date equipment and efficient booking systems can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Quality food. Resorts that prioritize high-quality, child-friendly dining options help keep everyone fueled and happy during long days on the mountain.
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Whether you’re drawn to the timeless charm of European villages or the adrenaline rush of skiing down powdery slopes, these tips and destinations will help ensure that your next family ski trip is as smooth as freshly groomed snow.
Happy skiing, and here’s to creating unforgettable moments on Europe’s magical slopes!
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