The 8 Best Ski Resorts for Families
Planning the perfect family ski trip can feel like navigating an avalanche of options. Where to head, how to get there, hotel or self-catering…the decision can feel overwhelming. Worry not, Hood Magazine is here to guide you to the best family-friendly ski resorts. Whether you’re seeking gentle slopes for beginners or après-ski activities to keep everyone entertained, our top picks ensure a snowy adventure packed with fun, comfort, and convenience.
Les Gets new four-season alpine 1,100 metre rollercaoster is now open for extra thrills
1. Les Gets, France
Why We Love It
Les Gets offers a charming, traditional village vibe with easy access to a range of beginner and intermediate slopes. The ski schools here are fantastic for kids of all ages, and there’s even a dedicated "Milka Purple" slope with Milk cows giving out chocolate treats, which is particularly popular with smaller kids.
The Best Bits
Après-ski activities like ice skating and sledding
For the youngest, Le Jardin des Neiges (Snow Garden) is perfect for children aged 3-5 to discover the joys of snow.
Older children can improve their skiing skills in group lessons, enjoy the toboggan runs, try electric snowmobiles, or go for a dog-sled ride.
The Espace des Mappys (beginner area) offers a free, safe space for toddlers new to skiing.
Play areas for little daredevils are scattered throughout ensuring fun off the slopes too.
New four-season alpine 1,100 metre rollercaoster for extra thrills
Discover the world of Shreddie, the friendly Yeti of Proclou forest, and his tree-hut village
2. Avoriaz, France
Why We Love it
Tucked away in the stunning French Alps, Avoriaz is the ultimate family-friendly destination. This car-free resort is purpose-built for convenience, offering door-to-door skiing that makes getting to the slopes a breeze. But it’s not just about skiing—off-piste fun awaits at Aquariaz, a tropical water park that's sure to be a hit with the kids.
The Best Bits
All accommodations ski-in/ski-out
Kids Village and daycare options
Annie Famose's Children’s Village – Since 1975, this children’s ski school has been helping kids aged 3 to 16 master the slopes. Through a method based on fun, games, and natural movement, children progress at their own pace while enjoying indoor activities like drawing and clay modeling between lessons.
Lil’stash Snowpark – A kid-friendly snowpark designed to help little ones discover their first freestyle sensations. With gentle slopes and freestyle modules like whoops, kickers, and boxes, it's the perfect space for beginners. The fun continues with Shreddie, the friendly Yeti of Proclou Forest, and a picnic area with a self-service barbecue and a giant banana swing for the whole family to unwind.
Aquariaz water park for off-piste fun
Kids can test out the zip line from age 3-plus
3. La Plagne, France
Why We Love It
Gone are the days when ski vacations were all about racing down the slopes. Today, the mountains offer so much more for families. While the skiing is fantastic, La Plagne is the perfect place to enjoy family activities that help your children grow, gain confidence, and make lasting memories in the snow.
The Best Bits
Ski-in/ski-out accommodations – Stay just steps away from the slopes, so you can easily pop back to your cosy base whenever you need a break.
Family-friendly slopes and activities – Beyond skiing, there’s so much to enjoy. Take the kids sledding (whether you prefer a relaxed ride or something more adventurous), or head to the ice skating rink for some family fun. For animal lovers, dog sledding (or the pony version for younger children) is a must-do.
Adrenaline-pumping thrills – If your kids are seeking excitement, test out the zip line (from age 3) or head to the legendary 1992 Olympic bobsleigh track to try the bob-raft, a self-guided raft adventure (from 1.30m tall and up). It’s an unforgettable experience for everyone.
A dedicated Kids Village – La Plagne also offers a variety of children's programs like its Kids Village and ski schools, where little ones can learn at their own pace while enjoying indoor activities like drawing and crafting between lessons.
Enjoy gentle slope and top-notch ski schools in Alpbach
4. Alpbach, Austria
Why We Love It
Known for its charming wooden chalets and breathtaking alpine scenery, Alpbach offers a peaceful retreat where families can enjoy the beauty of winter in a relaxed setting. With gentle slopes and top-notch ski schools, it’s an ideal destination for young children and beginners, but there’s so much more to experience beyond the slopes.
The Best Bits
Alpbach boasts dedicated areas for children to safely explore the slopes, with ski schools that cater to even the youngest skiers. The gentle terrain helps kids build confidence while having fun.
Winter Activities for All Ages – Beyond skiing, families can enjoy a host of other activities including snowshoeing, tobogganing, and ice skating. Little ones will love the snow tubing tracks, and the more adventurous teens can try their hand at paragliding or even go for a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered villages.
A Relaxed, Low-Key Atmosphere – The tranquil vibe of Alpbach is perfect for families looking for a less hectic alternative to larger ski resorts. With a focus on comfort and simplicity, the resort offers a peaceful experience for both parents and children.
Cervinia’s high altitude ensures excellent conditions throughout the season
6. Cervinia, Italy
Why We Love It
With wide, sunny slopes and a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn, Cervinia offers a fantastic skiing experience for families. The resort’s high altitude ensures excellent snow throughout the season, and with great value for money, it’s an ideal choice for families looking for an affordable ski trip. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to unwind after a fun day on the slopes.
The Best Bits
Wide, Gentle Slopes – The resort’s spacious and sunny slopes are perfect for beginners and young children to learn at their own pace, with plenty of room to explore.
Great Value for Money – Cervinia offers a more affordable alternative to its neighboring resort of Zermatt, while sharing much of the same terrain and exceptional snow cover. This makes it an ideal destination for families looking to get more for their money.
Family-Friendly Amenities – From an ice-karting track to a climbing wall, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained both on and off the slopes. The resort also has convenient accommodations close to the lifts and pistes, ensuring a more relaxed start to the day.
Snow Park for Kids – The resort offers a fantastic snow park designed specifically for kids, providing hours of fun while learning to ski or snowboard.
Ski school in Laax can be on the slopes or they can try freestyle snowboarding
7. Laax, Switzerland
Why We Love It
Laax is a modern, family-friendly resort with a focus on sustainability, design, and, most importantly, fun for all ages. With dedicated beginner areas and gentle slopes, it’s the perfect destination for families looking to introduce their children to skiing. But the adventure doesn’t stop there—Laax offers plenty of non-ski activities to keep everyone entertained, from ice skating to horse-drawn sleigh rides. The resort’s ski schools provide excellent lessons for children, ensuring a fun and educational experience.
The Best Bits
Indoor Freestyle Academy – A unique and exciting space where kids can explore freestyle snowboarding indoors when they’re not on the slopes, offering an extra layer of adventure.
Gentle Slopes & Beginner Areas – Perfect for young children and beginners, with dedicated zones for learning and plenty of room for progress.
Extensive Childcare Options – For parents looking for some alone time on the slopes, Laax provides excellent childcare services to give you peace of mind.
Non-Ski Activities – When it’s time for a break from skiing, enjoy activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, sledding, and even horse-drawn sleigh rides. The indoor freestyle academy and wellness facilities are also great options for some indoor fun.
Eco-Friendly Accommodations – Stay in comfort while keeping your carbon footprint in check with Laax’s sustainable, eco-friendly lodging options.
Norefjell is perfect for families looking for comfort and convenience
8. Norefjell, Norway
Why We Love It
Just a short drive from Oslo, Norefjell is a convenient and serene destination for families seeking a peaceful winter getaway. With its easy access from the city and stunning views of Lake Krøderen, the resort offers a mix of outdoor adventures and relaxation. Beyond skiing, Norefjell offers a variety of winter activities, including ice fishing, snowshoeing, and scenic winter hikes, making it a fantastic choice for families looking to explore the winter landscape.
The Best Bits
Easy Access from Oslo – Just a short drive from the city, Norefjell offers a stress-free travel experience for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle without long commutes.
Variety of Winter Activities – In addition to skiing, families can enjoy ice fishing, snowshoeing, tobogganing, and winter hiking, giving everyone plenty of options for outdoor fun.
Relaxing Spa Facilities for Parents – After a day of outdoor activities, parents can unwind at the resort’s spa facilities, offering relaxation and rejuvenation in a peaceful setting.
Family-Friendly Accommodations – With cosy, family-oriented accommodations close to the slopes and activities, Norefjell is perfect for families looking for comfort and convenience.