Are you ready to hit the slopes? Musement takes a look at five ski destinations in Europe that are fun for the whole family.
Us chionophiles are getting stoked for the forthcoming ski season! Europe’s countless ski holiday options are guaranteed to have at least one that tickles your particular downhill fancy. It’s not always easy to find a balance between family fun and a good old-fashioned ski holiday, so we put together a list of five of Europe’s best family ski holiday destinations. Here’s to this year’s winter holiday being memorable for everyone!
1. Zermatt, Switzerland
For the ultimate skiing experience, the Zermatt Ski Resort lets you experience the beauty and serenity of snowy Swiss Alpine peaks coupled with the charm of small mountain towns. Imagine nearly 4,000 meters of slopes against the backdrop of the Matterhorn, one of Europe’s tallest peaks. Top off your holiday (pun intended!) by visiting the Matterhorn Glacier, located at the summit and overlooking Mont Blanc, Europe’s tallest mountain. Airport: Zurich or Geneva
2. Alpbach, Austria
Located close to the border of Germany and 56 kilometers from Innsbruck (home to Mozart’s childhood home), Alpbach has a fantastic family-friendly ski school where kids and adults alike can take lessons, a perfect opportunity to learn how to ski or brush up on your skills while surrounded by picturesque Alpine scenery. Quaint architectural charm and traditional yet delightful hospitality characterize Alpbach, which has been voted, ‘Most Beautiful Village in Austria’. If you prefer slopes that are a bit more challenging, fret not. You’re in the Austrian Alps after all! There are plenty of other ski routes from which you may take your pick. Airport: Innsbruck
3. Avoriaz, France
The World Snow Awards awarded Avoriaz Best Family Resort 2013 due to its exceptional service, top skiing and all around convenience. The charming French town is home to the Village des Enfants (Children’s Village), which welcomes children as young as three to learn skiing. Located on a spacious 25-acre fenced-in area, the school facilitates ski games that implement cartoon characters, colored tracks and safe and comfortable terrain for smooth landings. As if this wasn’t enough to seem too good to be true, end the day with a visit Aquariaz, an indoor water park where you can relax in a Jacuzzi while the little ones enjoy the kids’ pool and water playhouse. Airport: Chambery
4. The Dolomites, Italy
The majestic Dolomites boast a multitude of ski resorts, and Dolomiti Superski is one of the most impressive! With the purchase of one ‘My Dolomiti Skicard’, you have access to 12 ski valleys in 50 towns with 450 lift facilities and 1200 kilometers of slopes where you can ‘chisel’ out your holidays thanks to the region’s endless winter entertainment. In addition to the breathtaking views, selection alternative seasonal activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, and family-friendly ski schools, you can dine incredibly well at one of the many gourmet restaurants or treat yourself to a massage or wellness treatment. Airport: Venice or Innsbruck
5. Glenshee, Scotland
For those who want to hit the slopes but don’t want to travel too far, Glenshee Ski & Snowboard Centre in Scotland is located within the impressive and stunning acreage of Cairngorms National Park. A Family Day Pass costs £80.00 so it is a close and affordable option. The center has a ski shop as well as tons of cafes and restaurants where you can relax for breaks in-between ski runs. Following the ski weekend, you could always explore the beautiful National Park. Its activities and attractions such as Balmoral Castle, which offers guided tours in the winter, are fun for the whole family. Airport: Aberdeen