Top 10 Family-Friendly Ski Destinations Around the World (2024)
By Ray Alamian | Published on 2024-10-29
Planning a family vacation to a winter wonderland can be a magical experience, especially if you pick the right resort. Family-friendly ski resorts are specifically designed to cater to the needs of all ages, from beginners to advanced skiers, and they often include a wide range of non-skiing activities as well. Here’s a guide to some of the best ski resorts for kids, loaded with family-friendly activities, great slopes, and cozy lodging options.
1. Whistler, Canada
Whistler is a legendary ski destination in British Columbia, known for its expansive slopes, beautiful scenery, and welcoming atmosphere. As the largest ski resort in North America, it offers an incredible 8,171 acres of skiable terrain and countless family-friendly amenities. The resort's “Ski with Me” program is ideal for young children, allowing parents and kids to enjoy the slopes together.
Family-Friendly Activities
Whistler is packed with family-oriented activities off the slopes too. The Whistler Blackcomb Family Adventure Zone offers fun games and activities, including a mini zip-line, bungee trampoline, and indoor rock climbing. For younger children, the Tree Fort in the Whistler Kids area is an enchanting playground where they can explore safely. Ice skating at the Olympic Plaza is another favorite, creating a memorable après-ski experience for families.
Top Hotels for Families
2. Park City, Utah, USA
Park City is a beloved family vacation spot in Utah, known for its accessible slopes and vibrant town atmosphere. With over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain, it’s one of the best family-friendly ski resorts in the U.S., offering plenty of options for all skill levels. Families with beginners will find gentle runs and well-trained ski instructors who specialize in working with kids.
Family-Friendly Activities
Park City Mountain Resort has more than just skiing: tubing, zip-lining, and the Alpine Coaster (a toboggan ride through snowy trails) provide thrills for the whole family. The resort also hosts weekly family-friendly events with music and games, making it a lively spot. Don’t miss the historic Main Street, perfect for an afternoon stroll and warm treats with the kids.
Top Hotels for Families
3. Vail, Colorado, USA
Vail is often ranked as one of the best ski resorts for kids in the U.S., thanks to its vast terrain and dedicated family facilities. Vail’s 5,300 acres of terrain include the renowned Adventure Ridge, which offers tubing, ski biking, and snowshoeing—ideal for families with a mix of skiers and non-skiers.
Family-Friendly Activities
Adventure Ridge is a must-visit for families in Vail, providing an array of activities that extend well beyond skiing. Vail also has kid-friendly ski lessons and terrain designed specifically for young beginners. For a unique experience, families can enjoy gondola rides that provide stunning mountain views or opt for horse-drawn sleigh rides, an enchanting way to experience the winter landscape.
Top Hotels for Families
4. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt offers an enchanting experience with its iconic views of the Matterhorn and charming Swiss village atmosphere. Known for its excellent snow conditions and reliable weather, Zermatt is a top family-friendly ski resort. The resort is entirely car-free, creating a safe and peaceful environment, and the train journey into the town itself is a magical adventure for kids.
Family-Friendly Activities
Zermatt’s “Wolli’s Park” offers slopes tailored specifically for kids and beginners, along with a play area that’s always a hit with little ones. Beyond skiing, families can enjoy tobogganing, ice skating, and even a visit to the Matterhorn Museum for a bit of cultural enrichment. Zermatt also has multiple scenic winter hiking trails perfect for families who prefer a slower pace.
Top Hotels for Families
5. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled in the Italian Alps, is one of the most picturesque family-friendly ski resorts in Europe. This area is renowned for its beautiful scenery, well-groomed slopes, and a variety of family-centered amenities. Cortina is also part of the Dolomiti Superski, one of the world’s largest ski circuits, offering endless options for exploration.
Family-Friendly Activities
Cortina has plenty of child-friendly ski areas, and the resort organizes skiing lessons tailored for young beginners. For families looking to take a break from skiing, the Ice Stadium offers ice skating, and there are numerous kid-friendly hiking trails that wind through the breathtaking Dolomite mountains. After a day in the snow, families can enjoy an Italian hot chocolate in one of the cozy mountain cafes.
Top Hotels for Families
6. Aspen Snowmass, Colorado, USA
Aspen Snowmass is a premier family vacation destination in Colorado, known for its four interconnected mountains and vast, diverse terrain. The area’s family-friendly ski school has an excellent reputation, and the Snowmass resort has an entire zone dedicated to kids and beginners, making it one of the best ski resorts for kids in the U.S.
Family-Friendly Activities
In addition to skiing, families can enjoy tubing, snowshoeing, and even a free daily s’mores event. The Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center, a dedicated area with play zones and organized activities, ensures that younger family members have a memorable experience. Snowmass also has a daily après-ski event with live music, perfect for families who want to unwind after a day on the slopes.
Top Hotels for Families
7. Niseko, Japan
Niseko is renowned for its powder snow and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular destination for family vacations in Asia. With its relatively mild terrain and family-oriented facilities, this ski destination is ideal for kids and parents alike. Many hotels in Niseko provide English-speaking staff and ski instructors, making it accessible for international families.
Family-Friendly Activities
Besides skiing, Niseko has snow tubing, snowshoeing, and even hot springs (onsen) for a relaxing family experience after a day on the slopes. The Niseko Family Snowland offers sledding, snowmobiling, and snow rafting, activities that are especially popular with younger kids. A visit to the local snow festivals is also a must for families looking to experience Japanese culture.
Top Hotels for Families
8. St. Moritz, Switzerland
St. Moritz is one of Switzerland’s most famous resorts, known for its luxury amenities and excellent snow conditions. This family-friendly ski resort boasts fantastic ski schools and beginner-friendly slopes. The resort town offers breathtaking mountain scenery and plenty of activities for all ages.
Family-Friendly Activities
St. Moritz’s Olympia Bob Run is a thrilling activity for older kids and adventurous families. The Muottas Muragl offers sledding and breathtaking views, and there are family-friendly events throughout the season. Ice skating, curling, and winter hiking trails round out the extensive activity offerings, making this a well-rounded destination for family fun.
Top Hotels for Families
9. Courchevel, France
Located in the heart of the French Alps, Courchevel is part of Les Trois Vallées, the world’s largest ski area. This family-friendly resort provides a perfect mix of beginner slopes and stunning views, and it’s known for its luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere. Courchevel’s ski school offers lessons for all ages, and the snow quality here is consistently high.
Family-Friendly Activities
Courchevel has designated zones for kids and beginners, ensuring that everyone can learn at a comfortable pace. The Family Park and Western Skipark offer safe spaces where children can ski and explore. Families will also enjoy the Aquamotion center, which includes indoor pools, water slides, and spa areas, perfect for relaxing après-ski.
Top Hotels for Families
10. Crans-Montana, Switzerland
Crans-Montana is a hidden gem in the Swiss Alps, offering a relaxed atmosphere ideal for families. With sunny slopes and a family-friendly village, it’s perfect for those new to skiing or those with younger children. The resort has a range of slopes for beginners and intermediate skiers, as well as a high-altitude snow park for kids.
Family-Friendly Activities
Beyond skiing, Crans-Montana offers dog sledding, snowshoeing, and a kids' snow garden. Families can also enjoy the resort’s cinema and bowling center. The nearby Alaïa Chalet is an indoor action sports center where kids can practice skiing, snowboarding, and even skateboarding in a safe environment.
Top Hotels for Families
These family-friendly ski resorts around the world offer the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and amenities that cater to every member of the family. For an unforgettable winter getaway, choose any of these destinations to experience the magic of a snowy family vacation.
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