When Oscar Wilde said, ‘Wisdom comes with winters’, he could have easily been referring to planning a family ski holiday.
With so many choices available, bewildered first-timers will appreciate this guide to ten of the best ski resorts in Europe for families.
Your first family ski trip should be a blend of adventure, learning, and family bonding — conveniently set against some of the most beautiful winter landscapes Europe has to offer.
Skiing is a fantastic family activity, giving everyone the chance to learn new skills while getting plenty of exercise and fresh air.
They say you’re never too young or too old to start; tots as young as three are welcome at some resorts, while others encourage children from the ages of four or five onward.
In Austria, skiing is not just a sport —it’s an art. Charming alpine villages combine with well-maintained slopes and some of the best ski schools in Europe, making it ideal for families and beginners.
France offers massive, interconnected ski areas and village-style resorts that are expertly designed to cater to all levels, with plenty of après-ski and off-slope activities to keep everyone entertained.
Sunny skies and a dolce far niente attitude make Italy the ideal choice for families looking for scenic skiing and great food.
In Andorra, nestled in the Pyrenees, you’ll get great value-for-money skiing in a tax-free paradise for keen après-ski shoppers.
Finally, Switzerland delivers stunning scenery, calm, and top-notch ski schools that, albeit at a hefty price tag, many say is worth it.
Lofty Gurgl is known as the “Diamond of the Alps” for good reason. Made up of the Obergurgland Hochgurgl areas perched at 1800m, it is a quiet resort that some call the most “snow-sure” in the world, with a long mid-November to end April season.
Beginners can take their time — wide, uncrowded slopes are perfect for both children and adults making their first forays into skiing. Children under eight ski for free when accompanied by a paying adult, which makes the cost of ski passes here one of the best bargains around.
Teens can enjoy freeride areas and snow parks for practicing jumps and tricks, plus the varied terrain provides a bit more challenge once they gain confidence. Ski-in, ski-out accommodation makes it easy for families to navigate and the ski schools are all close by. The traditional village, with its wooden chalets and sparkling lights, adds to the charm, offering a laid-back atmosphere.
Söll is part of Austria’s large SkiWelt area, known for affordability in a sometimes-pricey land.
There aregentle nursery slopes right by the main village, which makes it convenient for families with young children — kids three and up can spend happy days in the area’s bevy of well-respected ski schools.
Söll also offers a great range of off-slope activities, including night skiing and tobogganing, keeping everyone entertained after a day on the slopes.
Kids can enjoy winter walking trails with fun interactive elements, including wooden sculptures and play areas themed around local legends and nature.
Zell am See combines the beauty of its lakeside setting with excellent beginner skiing. Families love it for the stunning views, gentle slopes, and a variety of activities.
When the lake freezes over, try sledding or ice skating for an unforgettable experience. The resort is surprisingly affordable and family-oriented, with excellent ski schools for beginners of all ages.
Zell am See offers the “Power of Zehn” promotion on Saturdays, where teens (up to 19 years) can ski for just €10. Afternoon tea or snack time is practically worth the trip alone.
Don’t forget to try Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy shredded pancake served with fruit compote, or Apfelstrudel, another kids’ favourite.
Bigger is better in Méribel! Located in the heart of the 3 Vallées ski area, it offers families access to the largest interconnected ski area in the world.
Despite its size, the Altiport area is perfect for beginners, with wide, easy slopes and a relaxed learning environment.
Méribel also has a fantastic range of facilities like an Olympic-sized ice rink and indoor swimming pool, and has earned the French Familles Plus designation (as have all the French resorts in this guide).
An Inuit Village with Arctic-themed games and an igloo will entertain kids who need a moment with their skis off, as will the Moon Wild area that boasts giant wooden animal sculptures.
Parents and older teens will appreciate an après-ski cocktail in Meribel Centre, with its wide variety of bars and cafes.
They don’t call it paradise for nothing. La Plagne is part of the Paradiski area and is ideal for families looking for convenience and easy access to beginner slopes.
The resort is scattered over a dozen villages with different vibes — there is a village in La Plagne to suit every taste.
La Plagne Centre has excellent bunny hills for first-time skiers, and the ski schools here offer a big variety of programmes for children.
Activities like tobogganing, snow parks, and dog sledding, make it a great choice for families that have earned a well-deserved break from the slopes.
Adrenaline-seeking teens will be at home here: There are also bobsleigh rides at the Olympic track, a thrilling experience that competes with airbag jumps for the most fun ever.
One of France’s top resorts for families, Avoriaz is completely car-free. This adds a level of safety and fun for traversing the town and playing in the snow without worry.
The resort offers excellent beginner areas and ski schools, with courses starting at age four to five.
Clouds here have a silver lining… parents and kids alike will enjoy spending inclement weather at the popular Aquariaz indoor water park.
Stormy skies are the best moment to savour a Savoie specialty, raclette — gooey, melted cheese served with boiled potatoes, cured meats, and pickles.
Avoriaz is also part of the Portes du Soleil ski area, giving access to over 600km of pistes that span the other side of the border in Switzerland.
With a little planning, parents can drop their kids off at ski school in the morning and ski two different countries before lunchtime.
Cervinia is located at the base of the Matterhorn and offers sunny, gentle slopes that are ideal for beginners.
The ski schools here are highly regarded, especially for families, and the après-ski scene is family-friendly, offering a range of laid-back restaurants.
Its high altitude guarantees superb snow conditions throughout the season, and its connection to Zermatt adds a touch of adventure for families with teens.
Spend a few hours in Zermatt witnessing the Matterhorn’s more famous face, before heading back to Italy for a wood-fired pizza at dinner time.
A fun and affordable destination for families, Livigno is a duty-free haven in the majestic Italian Alps — which means affordable prices on everything from accommodation to meals.
The lively snow park and night-time activities like bowling and indoor go-karting round out the playful experience here.
Teens who want a different sort of sporty adventure can try fat biking on the snow and there’s an ice skating rink in the San Rocco quarter of Livigno, close to the nursery slopes.
Pal Arinsal is a smaller, quieter resort in Andorra that is best for families looking for a calm, peaceful winter holiday.
The nursery slopes are gentle and easily accessible, with excellent ski schools that cater to children six and up.
The resort’s compact size means everything is close by, from the slopes to accommodations, making it hassle-free for families.
Off-slope activities include tobogganing and guided snowshoeing tours.
There’s even an adventure park with zip lines and rope courses for kids who haven’t tired themselves out.
Arosa offers a scenic setting in the Swiss Alps with excellent facilities for families and beginners. Joined with Lenzerheide, it provides more than 225km of runs in total.
Arosa’s record for sunny days plus snow-sure altitude make it a top destination for a first ski holiday.
A special highlight is the Arosa Bear Sanctuary for teens and preteens who are interested in animals and nature.
Or visit the Arosa Lenzerheide Forest which has a lynx, wolf, and bear trail for wildlife enthusiasts.
These attractions add a unique twist to a ski trip, giving families a chance to engage with nature off the slopes.
