We all want our kids to love skiing as much as we do. But ski holidays with the kids are not always the easiest. Here are our top tips for a successful family ski trip this winter...

Go for a taster session before the real thing

Take a trip to one of the snow-domes or dry ski slopes before coming out to the Alps. This will give the kids a feel for skiing so it is less daunting when they get out to the big mountains. It will also get them excited and wanting to do more! 

Prepare for travel

Getting out to the mountains can seem like a long journey, particularly with young kids. Make your life easy and pre charge the ipads, download films and games and pack plenty of snacks! Our drivers also work in the chalets, they are kind and patient and happy to stop en-route for a break if necessary.

 Invest in Ski School

Ski school for your kids is money well spent. Group lessons are good value and the most fun. If your child doesn’t enjoy their lessons it might put them off skiing for good. Pick a good ski school with a good reputation for kids lessons.  Remember to book well in advance!

Have the right equipment

This is so important. Don’t skimp on the ski wear, investing a little extra into good quality waterproof and warm ski gear will make such a difference to your child’ ski experience. Make sure you bring waterproof shoes and spare ski wear so they can go off and play in the snow all day. Spare gloves are essential!

Take advantage of the learning areas

Both Val D’Isere and Tignes have designated learning areas at the top of the mountain which means good snow conditions and with easy access by gondola. You can even buy a discounted pass to just access the learning areas. These areas offer peace of mind that the kids will be safe and not bothered by people blasting down the mountain. Keep it fun, let them set the pace and build confidence.

Consider additional childcare

If you really want to make the most of your time on the slopes, consider organising additional childcare for the afternoons after the kids have finished their lessons. Nannies can pick the kids up from their lessons and bring them back to the chalet to play games etc or they can go and take advantage of many of the activities in resort that you don’t necessarily want to do.

It's not just about the skiing

Take advantage of the many other fun kids activities in resort such as ice skating. A week ski pass gives you 1 free entry into the swimming pool. The resort also hosts fun activities such as Snakegliss, Airboard, Yooner sledging and special events over Christmas and New Year.

Ski-in-Ski-out

Choose accomodation that is right next to the slopes. Kids don't like walking in ski boots and you don't want to be waiting around in the cold for resort buses. A chalet with a driver service is also useful so you can be picked up from wherever you are in the resort if the kids are too tired.

The catered experience 

Booking a catered chalet is a must for your family ski trip. Let someone else take care of the stress of cooking and cleaning. Put your feet up by the fire while the kids are served their dinner by the chalet staff. Then enjoy the fine dining in the comfort of your own chalet while the kids sleep. 

The Alpine Culture experience 

We have hosted multiple family trips over the years and we know exactly what to do to allow both parents and kids to get the most out of their trip and have some quality family time. We offer and end to end experience where your holiday starts when we pick you up from the airport. We offer an in house ski hire service and we organise all the finer details of your stay so you can just relax and ski.