Europe is home to some of the world’s most spectacular ski resorts, offering a perfect blend of pristine slopes, luxurious accommodation options, and memorable family experiences. As the 2023 season draws to a close for many of the continent’s most beloved resorts, there’s still time for one last hurrah before the snow melts away and the skis are packed away for another year.
Indeed, there are several standout destinations that cater specifically to families looking for a fun-filled getaway on the slopes.
Today, we’ve enlisted the help of the team at family ski holidays with Ski Famille to bring you these 5 of the best family-friendly European ski resorts for 2023.
Avoriaz, France
Nestled in the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area, Avoriaz is a charming, car-free resort that offers a safe and welcoming environment for families. Skiers and snowboarders of all levels can enjoy an extensive range of pistes while taking in the breathtaking Alpine scenery; Avoriaz boasts 130 km of pistes, which are part of the larger Portes du Soleil ski area, which has 650-700 km of interconnected slopes.
One of the key features that make Avoriaz a top choice for families is its dedicated children’s village, known as Village des Enfants. Here, kids aged 3-16 can participate in ski lessons, snowboarding classes, and various other snow-related activities under the supervision of qualified instructors.
On top of that, the resort offers a variety of off-slope entertainment options, including an aquatic centre, ice-skating rink, and cinema. Simply put, the little ones aren’t going to get bored here (and neither are the big ones!).
Avoriaz is open until 23rd April 2023.
Alpbach, Austria
Alpbach is a picturesque village in the Austrian Tyrol region, renowned for its traditional wooden chalets and stunning mountain backdrop. As part of the Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau ski area, visitors have access to 109 km of slopes, catering to both beginners and experienced skiers.
Family-friendliness is at the heart of Alpbach’s appeal, with numerous ski schools and childcare facilities available to ensure that parents can enjoy some time on the slopes while their little ones are well taken care of. Off the slopes, families can bond over activities such as tobogganing, snowshoeing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. In the evenings, the cosy village atmosphere provides the perfect setting for relaxing by the fireplace and indulging in delicious local cuisine.
Avoriaz is open until 16th April 2023.
Read: The IDEAL gourmet guide to Meribel, The French Alps
La Plagne, France
La Plagne is a vast ski resort in the French Alps, encompassing ten villages and forming part of the Paradiski ski area. With 425 km of slopes and an altitude range of 1,250 to 3,250 metres, La Plagne offers a diverse skiing experience suitable for all ages and abilities.
The resort is particularly well-suited for families, thanks to its wide, gentle slopes that are ideal for beginners and children. There are numerous ski schools available, as well as a dedicated family park with fun obstacles and jumps for kids to enjoy.
Beyond skiing, La Plagne offers a wealth of activities, including ice-skating, sledging, and even an Olympic bobsleigh track for thrill-seekers. The variety of accommodation options, from self-catered apartments to luxury chalets, ensures that there is something to suit every family’s needs and budget.
Avoriaz is open until 29th April 2023.
Ruka, Finland
Sitting proudly above the Arctic Circle, Ruka is a unique ski destination that offers a magical winter wonderland experience for families. With 34 slopes and a season that typically lasts from October to May, visitors can enjoy a truly extended ski holiday in this Finnish resort.
Ruka is an excellent choice for families, as it offers a comprehensive range of services designed to cater to their needs. These include ski schools, childcare facilities, and a dedicated children’s play area known as Rosa & Rudolf Family Park. Moreover, Ruka’s location provides the opportunity for families to witness the enchanting Northern Lights and participate in activities such as reindeer safaris, dog sledding, and snowmobiling.
Avoriaz is open until 11th April 2023.
Selva Val Gardena, Italy
Situated in the heart of the Dolomites, Selva Val Gardena is a charming Italian ski resort that forms part of the extensive Dolomiti Superski area. With 1,200 km of slopes to explore, families can enjoy a diverse skiing experience while marvelling at the dramatic mountain scenery.
Selva Val Gardena places a strong emphasis on family-friendliness, offering a range of services and facilities to cater to visitors of all ages. The resort’s ski schools are known for their high-quality instruction, ensuring that children can develop their skills in a safe and supportive environment. Off the slopes, families can take part in activities such as ice-skating, sledging, and exploring the local Ladin culture through museums and traditional cuisine.
The Bottom Line
Europe’s vast array of ski resorts offers something for everyone, but these five destinations stand out for their commitment to providing an exceptional family-friendly experience. From dedicated children’s areas and ski schools to off-slope activities and enchanting surroundings, Avoriaz, Alpbach, La Plagne, Ruka, and Selva Val Gardena are set to be the top choices for once last go on the snow before the 2023 European ski season comes to a close.
But before you ski off into the distance, do check out these golden rules for a safe and successful family skiing trip. You won’t regret it!