So you are thinking of taking the family off to learn to ski… we think it will be one of the very best investments that you will ever make. Your kids will never look back and ‘the family ski holiday’ will become a lasting tradition that will be enjoyed by many generations of your family for decades to come.
A winter ski or snowboard mountain holiday affords the most amazing family time with fresh air, truly astounding scenery, healthy exercise, lovely scrummy food, cosy chalets and a closeness that is second to none… rarely you will find a family member that does not pass this passion down to his or her children. Lifelong memories are made in the mountains…there will always be tired tantrums and aching legs, but lasting memories will be made.
If you’re a parent who grew up with ski-loving parents, you’ll know that despite the hardships of tight-fitting one-piece ski suits and achingly slow, hard-seated chairlifts, some of your favourite memories were made during your childhood’s family ski holidays.
Here are our tips on how to survive the brilliant crazy madness and return home from your ski holiday with the best kind of memories.
In the mountains, the weather can be wide ranging depending upon the time of year, the altitude, the direction that the slopes face and just generally how lucky you are so if you expect all and any kind of weather, you will be prepared for anything. Children’s temperature control buttons are irregular and easily bumped (they bypass warm and go straight to roasting). Layering is key, invest in the best thermals that you can afford. It is better to have just one good set and wash half way through the week (and only then if you really do need to!) pop a layer over these followed by a zip-up fleece and good repellent ski wear, these are so lightweight these days. A neck buff is an essential piece of kids’ ski gear, keeping their necks warm and providing face protection from frosty winds, especially when riding the chairlifts.
Having energy boosting snacks is never more important than when on the slopes. Skiing in a snow plough all day takes a lot of work so keep a regular supply of calories to keep your little ones going. Maybe a breakfast bar, a small chocolate snack and some yummy jelly babies and don’t forget that the air is very dry at altitude so regular water is a MUST!
Chocolat chaud…. “hot chocolate” … is a MUST… you will find that each pit stop on the mountain has a great version. Opt for those with Chantilly and Chamallows (cream and marshmallows). However, if you find yourself slopeside in Italy, you are in for a hot chocolate on another level. The Italian hot chocolate is so chocolately, rich and indulgent … you will find that the spoon even stands upright ! it’s a great way to warm hands AND bellies.
Throw in some great essentials – sunscreen, a bottle of water, lipsalve, tissues, an extra fleece and a pair of gloves for each child. A backpack is helpful for later in the day when the temperature goes up and the layers start to come off.
If you are in one of the more sought after resorts; maybe Courchevel or Meribel if you're staying with us in the Three Valleys, or if you have a particular spot you would like to visit and the restaurant has an enviable reputation, the restaurant could be rammed at lunchtime, reserve in advance and share in the smug sense of the well-organised as you make a beeline for your table. But don’t be late though, restaurants will not hold tables during this busy period.
Having a plan gives structure and limits decision fatigue. But things don’t always go according to plan, so stay breezy when the plans fall apart. Having lessons booked for the morning is ideal, it gets everyone out of the door nice and early and gives you the afternoon to cruise as a family and so the kids can show off their new skills.
Book in some non-skiing activities, little legs will appreciate the break and it’s another way to bond as a family. Ski resorts typically have a variety of off-the-slope activities on offer especially during the holidays
Things families love away from the ski agenda
La Plagne : go do the Bobsleigh… it’s fast and furious
La Rosiere : Luge Extreme! It's fast, brightly lit at night and guaranteed to give you a thrill!
Val Thorens : The Folie … the original and best… since 1980 the best party on the slopes
A chalet holiday is the perfect way to make new friends and this goes for the whole family. Our fabulous hot tubs are a great way to unwind and chat, as well as to ease those tired legs. there are some great ski games that you can learn in the chalet, or ‘ask Alexa’ and she will compare your very own chalet quiz or just give you some random local facts. Your hosts will be delighted to share some of their favourite ‘in chalet’ entertainment ideas and can also regale you with mountain traditions and the origins of some of the fabulous dishes and cheeses that they will serve you. Our staff are a wealth of fabulous entertainment and knowledge.
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100% Financially Protected Ski Chalet Holidays when you book one of our fabulous chalets in great French Alpine resorts…
