What’s your earliest memory of hitting the slopes? Whether you’ve been whizzing down reds since you were a toddler or you started out later in life, there’s something magical about sharing a fairy-tale ski holiday with the whole family. Make sure your adventure with your little ones goes as smoothly as possible and choose a destination that’s fully geared up to cater for your brood. For ski resorts that have childcare for tiny tots, ski schools for early learners and plenty of activities for non-skiers, France is a good choice. We’ve selected our pick of the best ski resorts with childcare and creche facilities.
La Rosière
Made up of charming wooden houses, this traditional village is nestled at the foot of the Petit St Bernard mountain pass. La Rosière is known for its peaceful atmosphere, with laidback, friendly bars and restaurants. The ski resort is perfect for families. There are pushchair and baby carriers available so that you can leave yours at home. You’ll find crèche facilities like the Galopins Kids’ Club, which provides childcare for toddlers (18 months and up) and children aged three to 13. To keep the little ones entertained in the evenings, there’s a bowling alley, skating rink, and a cinema.
La Plagne
La Plagne ski resort has 12 villages to choose from. Montchavin and Les Coches are ideal for a child-friendly trip, with nurseries, crèches and ski schools for kids. While you relax at Hotel Les Rhododendrons, your children can spend time in the adjoining kids’ play room. They’ll have plenty to do during the day at the fun kids’ club. The hotel’s restaurant caters to children with a healthy kids’ menu and a hearty breakfast to set them up for a long day on the slopes. If you prefer apartments, try Residence Manaka, offering self catering and a superb indoor swimming pool.
Les Arcs
The world’s largest cable car links Les Arcs with La Plagne, making it Europe’s third-biggest ski area. Of the four main ski centres, both beginners and children will love the gentle terrain around Arc 2000. Hotel MMV Altitude is family-friendly and ideally situated just 500m from the slopes. You can unwind in the spa while the kids let off steam at one of the in-house children’s clubs, which cater for all ages. Lighten your load at the airport and book a baby kit with a bed, chair, changing mat, potty and bath chair. Hotel Belambra Aiguille Rouge also provides free baby kits and has activity-packed kids’ clubs to keep children happy all day.
Méribel
Take advantage of the vast Three Valleys ski area at Méribel. Méribel-Motterat is the most beginner-friendly ski resort, set high up on the hill with plenty of ski-in, ski-out access. Head to Hotel Le Yeti, a family-run hotel that’s conveniently located right by the meeting point for the ski school and the Piou Piou ski garden for tiny tots. Le Grand Coeur & Spa is nestled at the bottom of the slopes, and with its welcoming feel, it’s the perfect place for families to relax. When little legs start to tire, you can book snowshoeing excursions or enjoy a magical dog sled ride.
Val d’Isère
Val d’Isère has easy access to what is probably the best all-round ski area in the world, the Espace Killy. You and the kids will enjoy a variety of runs from green through to black. Club Med Val d’Isère offers all-inclusive packages for a relaxing getaway, with group ski lessons, babysitting facilities and an indoor pool. Spacious family suites with balconies also give the holiday a sense of luxury and grandeur.
To find out more about the best ski resorts with childcare and creche facilities, contact our ski experts today.
