A family ski trip is different: short transfers, ski-in/ski-out accommodation, excellent kids’ ski schools and things to do off the slopes matter more than the size of the ski area.
What to look for
- Kids’ snow gardens and ski schools from age 3–4
- Free or cheap passes for small children
- Short transfer time from the airport
- Car-free or compact village
- Gentle slopes close to the accommodation
- Sledding, skating, pools and other activities
Our favourite family resorts
1. Levi — Finland
15-minute transfer, gentle slopes, reindeer and huskies, and Santa magic in December.
Season: November – early May · Altitude: 205–531 m · Price level: Mid-range
2. Ruka — Finland
Very long season, compact village and outstanding kids’ facilities.
Season: Late October/November – late May or early June · Altitude: 201–492 m · Price level: Mid-range
3. Val Gardena & Alpe di Siusi — Italy
Alpe di Siusi’s gentle plateau and excellent family hotels.
Season: Early December – early April · Altitude: 1,236–2,518 m · Price level: Mid-range
4. Grandvalira (Soldeu, El Tarter, Pas de la Casa) — Andorra
Big snow gardens and very good English-speaking kids’ schools.
Season: Early December – mid April · Altitude: 1,710–2,640 m · Price level: Budget
5. Aspen Snowmass (Colorado, USA) — USA & Canada
Snowmass is superb for families, with ski-in/ski-out lodging and top kids’ programmes.
Season: Late November – mid April · Altitude: 2,400–3,810 m · Price level: Premium
6. Whistler Blackcomb (Canada) — USA & Canada
A car-free village, big kids’ programmes and endless activities.
Season: Late November – late May · Altitude: 675–2,284 m · Price level: Premium
7. Mayrhofen — Austria
Beginner-friendly Ahorn, good ski schools and lots to do in the valley.
Season: Early December – mid April (Hintertux glacier year-round) · Altitude: 630–2,500 m (Hintertux glacier to 3,250 m) · Price level: Mid-range
8. Pamporovo — Bulgaria
Calm, affordable and gentle — Bulgaria’s family choice.
Season: Mid December – late March · Altitude: 1,450–1,926 m · Price level: Budget
9. Bakuriani — Georgia
Georgia’s traditional family resort.
Season: Late December – late March · Altitude: 1,700–2,850 m · Price level: Budget
Family tips
- Book kids’ ski school early for school holidays.
- Choose accommodation close to the ski school meeting point.
- Plan half days for small children; a tired child doesn’t learn.
- Read how to dress kids and what to do if a child gets lost.
*Approximate adult high-season prices for 2025/26 based on published resort information; many resorts use dynamic pricing, and prices change every season. Ski area size and altitude figures are rounded. Always check the official resort website before booking.
