On a holiday usually ruled by squeals of speed-induced joy, let the moments of calm and connection do the talking.
The delight as little ones master the nursery slopes, that sense of pride (and friendly competition) as teens overtake on the steeper pistes, the relief of finally rounding everyone up for well-deserved feasts on sun-bathed terraces. Everyone’s highlight of a family ski holiday is different, but it’s always the adrenaline-fuelled activities that take centre stage. Yet, it may come as a surprise, but these winter wonderlands are the perfect places to slow down and let the quiet moments shine.
Think experiences that cater to both part-time skiers and complete slope evaders; like crunching down lantern-lit trails in Crans-Montana, testing wobbly limbs on pretty ice rinks on Alberta’s Lake Louise in Canada or in St Moritz, or hot chocolate-hopping your way through lesser-known resorts away from the crowds.
To ski and then après-ski? That’s usually the question. But when you’re on a skiing holiday with teens or children, après in the traditional sense isn’t always on the cards. Make some considered decisions, though, and the result is a trip that perfectly balances adventure with not only relaxation but quality time too.
The key is in the curation, of course, something we strive to perfect in each of our journeys. Taking the thrill-filled base of a bespoke family ski trip and carving out times for reconnection and recreation in luxurious ways, like the first tracks on a freshly groomed run. From seeking out experiences that bridge multigenerational gaps and arranging family ski schools and private instructors for every ability, to guaranteeing interconnecting rooms to keep everyone close or even going all out and sequestering the whole clan in a luxury chalet. Slope skimming may be a highlight of the trip, but cosying up with a cup of something warm between loved ones is the part that will be treasured.
A message for the outdoorsy types – the snow isn’t just for skiing. In fact, some of the best bonding comes in moments of off-slope exploration. A firm favourite with both the young and young at heart, the most obvious stop is the home of Father Christmas himself – Finnish Lapland. The reindeer-roamed forests that surround Octola Private Wilderness hosts activities that fluctuate on the adrenaline scale, from exciting sledding helmed by huskies and snowmobiling to easy-going sleigh rides.
Meanwhile, over in the Swiss Alps, the twinkling mountains surrounding the likes of Wengen and Andermatt make for great beginner and child-friendly snowshoe trekking and slow travel via the Glacier Express explores the landscape in the comfort of a cosy carriage. Alongside those well-loved activities, though, Switzerland thinks outside the chocolate box with the likes of sledding through the valley after dark at Tschuggen Grand Hotel Arosa and making friends with the yaks on a hike through Crans-Montana’s wilderness.
Abilities and interests vary but if there’s one thing everyone can agree on, it’s food. Alpine cuisine is a wholesome all-rounder beloved by every generation, and no dish more so than delectable fondue. A great way to reenergise after a day on the slopes, these cheese feasts bring everyone together to indulge in the ultimate comfort food. Like in The Chalet at The Chedi Andermatt’s Winter Village, where oodles of melted cheese in both fondue and raclette form warms from the inside as roaring fireplaces defrost frozen limbs. A more adventurous take on the dish is found in Megève, inside an igloo to be exact – the reward at the end of a snowshoe trek beneath the stars.
For the grown-ups, the top of the list is often dominated by the search for après-ski, but while sunny terraces are always a delight, destination dining adds a touch of winter magic. The Landing at One&Only Moonlight Basin in Montana is great for a post-piste bite – but stroll into the woods and speciality whiskies are on the menu at the Moon Shack. Over in the Dolomites, mulled wine is savoured in a tranquil mountain hut after a horse-drawn sleigh ride from COMO Alpina Dolomiti, and up in Iceland, an ice cave makes for the perfect venue for an intimate dinner cooked by a private chef.
With slopeside thrills and wellness rituals in equal measure, ski and spa holidays are the perfect pairing for family units of all shapes and sizes. For those wanting to thaw out inside after a day in the great outdoors, the likes of Six Senses Crans-Montana’s nine treatment rooms, the holistic programmes at Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti, and Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa’s infinity pool in the clouds are a trio where you can’t go wrong. But for those that can’t sit still or quite get enough of the crisp cold air, there are some places that focus on rejuvenation beneath the open sky.
Harnessing the power of the mineral-rich waters it’s built on, Iceland’s The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon is famous for its healing properties and guests needn’t even leave the privacy of their rooms for treatments – in-water massages are performed in their own private thermal pool. And for an invigorating experience, snow yoga in sight of Mont Blanc in The 3 Valleys reconnects the mind with the body, nature and the other relatives brave enough to do it too.
Whether it’s hand-picking chalets to house the whole clan or finding ski holidays with childcare so the adults can have some time to themselves, our experts are well versed in the art of crafting the perfect snow-covered getaway. To give you a taste of what’s on offer, here are our top picks of the best family ski resorts across Europe and North America.
Nestled in a south facing position overlooking the Rhône Valley, hidden gem Crans-Montana is the new place to be; known for its wonderous red runs, long leisurely lunches and sunny outlook.
Occupying a central position in the Three Valleys, Méribel promises unrivalled access across this vast ski area.
Defined by equal parts tradition, natural beauty and seemingly endless pistes, the Dolomites are the essence of winter luxury, adorned with a blanket of crisp white snow.
Renowned for its great chalet options, lively nightlife and legendary skiing, Val d’Isère’s partly-pedestrianised centre exudes the alpine authenticity of a vibrant mountain town.
Set in a chocolate box landscape of forests and frozen lakes, Arosa has a laid back traditional Swiss ambience and a friendly welcome.
The epitome of ski-chic, Courchevel exudes style and sophistication; its streets peppered with designer boutiques and top-class restaurants at 1,850m.
From lodgings with ski-in/ski-out convenience and butler and concierge services to properties where suites interconnect and private residences reign, when it comes to where to rest your head, the resort is just the start. When you know what kind of ski holiday is right for you, our curated lists of hotels are on hand to help refine the options further.
