Dreaming of snow-capped mountains, swish slopes, and an action-packed holiday with the whole family and friends? It’s time to start planning your next ski trip! When travelling with families, it’s true that some of the world’s most popular resorts often come with a hefty price tag, but Europe has plenty of lesser-known resorts with all the amenities that won’t break the bank. Here are some fabulous and affordable ski destinations in Europe to head to this winter.
Andorra
For family-friendly fun, Grandvalira is the largest resort with an exciting array of runs to explore. The entire Grandvalira ski area includes popular slopes such as Soldeu, and El Tarter and provides an impressive 210km of skiing.
Pas de la Casa is the highest and most snow-sure and perfect for the party-goers, whilst Arinsal is a smaller resort with a freestyle park, excellent ski schools and plenty of beginner terrain.
Andorra also has a fantastic array of bars, restaurants, and cafes that are sure to satisfy every taste, whilst for the party enthusiasts, the après and nightlife scene always promise to impress. europe’s ski resorts
Davos, Switzerland
Whilst Davos may be better known for hosting the annual economic summit for world leaders, it is also the highest resort town in Europe and one of the first ski resorts in the world.
The town lacks the traditional ski chalet charm, but the wide slopes and extensive terrain are varied and provide an excellent experience for those who love the slopes. europe’s ski resorts
Intermediate skiers can enjoy lovely long cruising runs that sit above the tree line, whilst beginners and children can find easy slopes and ski schools in Jakobshorn and Bolgen areas. There are also plenty of steep pistes and couloirs for the more advanced skiers.
Off the slopes, families can enjoy a day of tobogganing, or a day out skating on the largest natural ice rink in Europe!
Enjoy great prices at the traditional and locally owned restaurants both on and off the mountain. With an extensive range of accommodation options that suit both families and small groups, great food, and an exciting après scene, there is something for everyone in Davos.
Les Houches, France
Enjoy gentle and leisurely slopes alongside incredible views, as Mont Blanc’s peak pierces the clouds, and the surrounding valleys shine in the usually good weather. There are also several tree runs that are perfect for families and adventure seekers alike.
The restaurants in this resort are well priced and offer delicious alpine dishes alongside kid-friendly favourites. There is also a small après scene, perfect for a rewarding afternoon tipple, without the crazy party vibes of Megève and Chamonix. Though, if a party is what you’re after, there are buses in and out of Chamonix all evening.
The traditional chalets along the village are the most popular accommodation option, boasting quaint and cosy charm, perfect for families or large groups. europe’s ski resorts
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Madesimo, Italy
Four ski lifts bring skiers up to the Madesimo-Valchiavenna ski area, which is home to 60km of pistes, a snow park and patrolled off-piste runs including the famous Canalone trail. europe’s ski resorts
The resort is most suited to intermediate skiers, though there are enough steep slopes to satisfy the more advanced, with a wealth of trails to explore that cruise back to the village. For beginners, there is the Larici Baby Park and the short Palu Piste.
Unsurprisingly, the food in Madesimo is excellent, with hearty pizzas and local dishes all served at reasonable prices. There is also a lively après scene both on and off the mountain, with live music and delicious après snacks served alongside incredible mountain views.
The town is buzzy with an array of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore, whilst the historic streets offer that idyllic Italian charm. There are chalets for all budgets and group sizes, from catered chalets without the hassle, and convenient ski-in/ski-out accommodations.
Les Menuires, France
This resort is perfect for groups and is perhaps one of the most affordable ways to ski Les Trois Vallées. It shares a ski area with Courcheval and Meribel but offers less expensive accommodation and less of a focus on glitz and glamour.
There is an excellent selection of ski schools and instructors, as well as experienced mountain guides for a more advanced day out.
The resort offers everything from affordable local eateries to upmarket dining, leaving you spoilt for choice when it comes to food. Les Menuires has a relaxed après scene, but partygoers can ski to the famous La Folie Douce in nearby Val Thorens and catch an affordable bus back to Les Menuires. europe’s ski resorts
Built right into the mountainside with easy access to the slopes, the resort is great for large groups with no need for cars or transport. Rent a traditional chalet to enjoy the slopes by day and return to the cosy abode for homemade fondue, hot cocoa, and vin chaud.