- 3 min read

Expert Tips on Ski Holidays

Ski holidays are great for thrill-seekers, breathtaking mountain scenery, plenty of family bonding opportunities and lasting memories for everyone.

Key Points - there are options for everyone!

Who Will It Appeal To?

Families love a chance to bond on the slopes. There might be little ones learning to ski, or teenagers off on their own adventures, it’s a brilliant, active way to create cherished memories in cosy chalets. Many resorts offer family-friendly activities and childcare services, enabling parents to enjoy their time on the slopes.
Groups of friends gravitate to ski holidays for adventure, where they can race down the slopes, tackle challenging terrain, and revel in the vibrant après-ski scene with drinks, live music, and socialising.
Couples love ski breaks for ideal romantic escape. After a full day’s skiing together in snow-covered mountains, what better way to unwind in a charming chalet nestled in picturesque landscapes. It’s the perfect setting for quality time together.

How Long Should You Go For & When?

The main ski season in Europe runs from December to April, with the most reliable snow conditions between January and March. If your travel early or late in the season, consider higher resorts for better snow coverage or explore options in Canada and the US, where the season begins in November.

7 nights is the ideal duration to start reaping the rewards and truly appreciate the fun of a skiing holiday. Keep in mind that the first and last days are usually for travelling, so you will likely have 6 days of skiing.
14-night stays are a great option for those looking to enhance their skills and live it up in a ski resort. These longer stays provide ample time on the slopes and allows for rest days to enjoy other activities. If a full week doesn’t fit your schedule, you can opt for a shorter 3-5 night ski holiday.

What Can You Do When There?

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, ski resorts offer a wide range of activities for you to enjoy. For those who prefer a slower pace, cross-country skiing allows them to explore the surroundings leisurely.

You can also experience the thrill of riding a snowmobile on designated trails or venture into the scenic backcountry. Snowshoeing provides an opportunity to trek through snow-covered forests and take in the serene beauty of the landscapes.

Many ski resorts feature ice skating rinks and world-class spas. You can embrace the lively après-ski culture with bars, restaurants, and live music. You can up your skills with skiing or snowboarding lessons, suitable for beginners and those seeking to advance. Be sure to check out special events and festivals hosted by the resort, which may include fireworks, races, and other entertainment.

Holiday Details - all you need to know!

Getting there

Flying is convenient for reaching ski resorts. Airports like Geneva, Innsbruck, and Grenoble are commonly used gateways to the Alps.

For flexibility, you can drive to many European ski resorts from the UK, making it ideal for exploring multiple resorts or maximising time on the slopes.

Eurostar trains offer a comfortable and scenic option, especially for French ski destinations. You can take the Eurostar from London to Paris and then connect to high-speed TGV trains to reach resorts in the French Alps.

PRO TIP: Opt for early Saturday arrival when possible to avoid long queues. You might even get time for a half-day skiing, when the slopes are less crowded.

Accommodation

Apartments with kitchen facilities are suitable for those who prefer cooking their meals. They come in various sizes, from studios to multi-bedroom apartments.

Ski resort hotels come in various categories, from luxurious alpine resorts to more budget-friendly options, but most will come with restaurants, spas, and ski equipment storage.

Chalets are traditional alpine cabins that can be rented as a whole property for groups or individual rooms, often with catered or self-catering options.

PRO TIP: Look for properties located right on the slopes, allowing guests to ski in and out of their accommodation, providing the ultimate convenience.

Other information

Ski or lift passes are the key to accessing the slopes. They vary from half-day to multi-day passes, and can be purchased online or at the resort. Buying in advance not only saves money but also time. It’s a good idea to take a photo of your pass as a backup in case it gets lost.

Renting ski equipment is a practical choice, especially for those who don’t want to travel with their gear. Ski rental shops near or at ski resorts provide equipment for all skill levels. We encourage you to pack warm base layers, ski socks, and ample sunscreen for a comfortable and safe skiing experience.

Ski insurance is essential. Ensure the insurance covers off-piste skiing if you are interested in ski touring, providing them with peace of mind and added protection during your ski holiday.