There’s no better family holiday than a skiing trip. Just check out some of the photos below, and you’ll see what we mean.
The family that skis together stays together!
For Parents with Babies
If you have a baby, enjoy the freedom of leaving your little one in a trusted nursery and getting some time to yourself. A holiday at last!
For Parents with Toddlers
Watching your toddler take to the snow is magical. Skiing as a family—laughing, speeding, lunching, and even falling together—creates unforgettable moments.
The Joy of Family Skiing
Eventually, your kids will outshine you on the slopes, bringing a mix of pride and a tinge of regret.
Expert Tips from Experienced Skiers
James and Kisia Cove, editors of PlanetSKI, have three children who all started skiing at four years old. They’ve skied around the world and experienced all the highs and lows. Here’s their advice, combined with tips from Esprit Ski, the No. 1 family specialist.
What to Consider When Taking Children Skiing
- Flight Times: Choose flights at civilized hours for children.
- Travel Distance: Check the distance and travel time from the airport to the resort.
- Experienced Operators: Choose operators with extensive experience and a variety of options, not just those limiting families to specific resorts.
- Childcare Quality: Ensure child carers are qualified and check if the nursery is conveniently located.
Nursery Care for Babies and Toddlers
- Qualified Carers: Select operators with dedicated nurseries staffed by British qualified Nursery Nurses.
- Daily Routine: Ensure carers follow your child’s routine and provide daily diaries to keep you informed.
- Outdoor Activities: Children should experience the mountains, weather permitting, with activities suitable for their age.
Ski School for Children
- Class Sizes: Opt for operators offering smaller class sizes (6-8 children) taught in English.
- Parental Convenience: Check if parents need to transport children to ski school, which can limit time on the slopes.
- All-Day Skiing vs. Half-Day: Younger children benefit from a mix of skiing and fun activities, while older children may prefer all-day skiing.
Babysitting Services
- Extra Charges: Some operators charge for babysitting; check costs in advance to avoid surprises.
- Free Services: Look for operators offering free baby listening or child patrol services.
Catering
- Meal Arrangements: Ensure children can eat together early, rather than waiting for an adult dinner at 8 PM.
Location of Properties
- Proximity to Ski School: Choose properties near ski school meeting points for convenience.
- Transport Services: Good operators provide transport to minimize walking in ski boots.
Prices
- Child Discounts: Check discounts based on age and number of children allowed.
- Overall Value: Calculate the whole package price to determine the best value. Some operators offer better family deals despite higher adult prices.
- Accommodation: Sharing rooms can offer greater discounts, but separate rooms for children may not.
By considering these tips, you can ensure a fantastic and stress-free family skiing holiday.
