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If you’re after fun, long-lasting memories, then taking your family skiing is one of the best holidays you could choose.
These resorts have been picked for their location, distance and quality of the local ski school(s), skiing tailored for all ability levels, family friendly chalets, leisure activities that appeal to both parents and children (non-ski related) as well as general family-friendliness and ambience.
1. Plagne 1800, Paradiski
Found in the Paradiski area of the French Alps, Plagne 1800 is a cosy satellite-resort in the Paradiski area. This ski area consists of many little satellite resorts which all link into the ‘central hub’ that is the purpose-built Plagne Centre.
Plagne 1800 is a fairly sleepy resort but has plenty of amenities to keep families busy during your week in the mountains.
While Plagne Centre can be considered the main tourist hotspot, Plagne 1800 provides a far prettier alternative that appeals to both children and parents.
Plagne 1800 is just a short bus ride away from Plagne Centre (though visitors can also reach it from the slopes via chairlift), while many of the other satellite resorts are also easily accessible.
Skiing
Plagne 1800 is situated in the heart of the Tarentaise region and boasts stunning views of Mont Blanc.
Set amongst the pine trees just below Plagne Centre, the village is a great base for a family ski holiday.
It has its own ski schools, hire shops, and a wide selection of restaurants and bars.
With its four pistes, Plagne 1800 offers easy ski access to both Plagne Aime 2000 and Plagne Centre. For those looking for a little something extra, skiing into Plagne 1800 will take you almost to the door of Chalet Delphine, one of the best family-friendly chalets in this region.
While La Plagne is a vast ski area, visitors can also access the Vanoise Express cable car linking La Plagne with Les Arcs – together, they form one of the biggest ski areas in the world: Paradiski.
Leisure
Family ski holidays are more than just the skiing itself. A fantastic resort like Reberty offers an array of family-friendly activities to keep the children entertained as well as a relaxing experience for you as parents.
The entrance to Plagne Centre has been completely renovated, which now not only boasts an improved bus station and tourist office, but also a new bar with panoramic views, a 4-lane bowling alley, an ice-skating rink, and an exhibition room. Accessible by the free shuttle service.
Deep Nature Spa and Swimming Pool
If you fancy venturing a little further for some relaxation, then you’ll love the new wellness centre that has recently been built in the middle of Belle Plagne. This is open to all ages (Monday-Sunday 10am-12pm & 2pm-8pm).including children, and there is even a family spa area with an outdoor heated pool featuring a waterfall, massage jets, and much more.
Sports Centre
The Salle Omnisports Pierre Leroux sports centre in Plagne Centre is equipped with a sports hall for tennis, badminton, and volleyball plus a weights room and climbing wall. Opening times vary throughout the year so it is best to call in advance. There are also squash courts in Plagne 1800, open from 5 – 7pm every day.
Olympic Bobsleighing
For adults with an adventurous spirit, a 1.5km bobsleigh run built for the 1992 Olympics is located just outside of the resort. There are 3 choices of bobsleigh: solo, driverless bob (on Tuesdays-Sundays, 4.30-7.30pm) or with a professional pilot (on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays). Prices start from 45 € per person.
Snowshoeing
This ecotourism activity allows you to discover the Paradiski area on foot. Explore snowy pine forests, walk over ridges, wander the banks of brooks and streams. You’ll travel through canyons and hidden villages and maybe even spot some animals. The available options are: Half day, full day, evening snowshoeing by torchlight.
Electric Snowmobiling
Snow Panthers snowmobiling offers you a thrilling and unforgettable experience, driving under the supervision of experienced guides.
You’ll receive a 10-minute briefing followed by 50 minutes of skidooing (taking place every hour after the slopes close: 17:30, 18:30, 19:30, 20:30).
Participants depart in Plagne Centre, beside the Colorado chairlift (next to Funiplagne which joins the summit of Grande Rochette). They will supply you with a helmet but you’ll need to bring your own warm clothes, gloves, snow boots, and ski goggles.
Driving 95€ (minimum age 18 years old) or snowmobiling as a passenger behind a guide: 30€ (minimum age 12 years old).
Paragliding
La Plagne and the Tarentaise Valley are internationally recognised for the sport known as parapenting in France. Flights can be undertaken solo (with prior training) or in tandem with a qualified paragliding pilot.
- Discovery flight (From 75€) – 700 metre descent from take-off to landing. A nice calm introduction to paragliding.
- Mountain flight (From 140€) – A more dynamic flight with a lot more ups and downs! This can entail descents of heights up to 2000 metre, depending on the conditions and the weather during the period.
Paragliding is available from 9am-5pm, with ‘take-off’ at the Roche de Mio, 2700 metre in altitude.
Restaurants
Fueling up on delicious cuisine is essential on a family ski holiday.
Our chalet staff have one day off per week during your holiday (on Wednesday). This provides you with the opportunity to sample local restaurants at dinner, as there are a whole range of places to choose from.
You can also take advantage of the many restaurant options on the slopes for a quick lunch stop or even ‘catch some rays’ from their sunny terraces.
Our previous guests have recommended the following restaurants; some of which are in Plagne 1800 itself while others are a short bus ride away to either Plagne Centre or one of the many nearby satellite resorts:
Le Petit Chaperon Rouge (££-£££) – Predominantly French cuisine with a children’s menu also on hand, this cosy restaurant makes for a great choice for families. Due to it being one of the few restaurants in Plagne 1800, Wednesday evenings can get busy so we recommend that you ask your chalet host to make a reservation for you.
Le Refuge (££-£££) – If you fancy venturing into the centre of La Plagne via the free bus service, this restaurant is an excellent choice for the evening. It is one of the oldest restaurants in La Plagne with a lovely character and a pleasing ambience. Grilled meats are one of their specialities, and hooks above the tables allow you to try the process for yourself. Night owls may also move to the adjoining bar which stays open until 2am.
Le Pizz’Burg (£-££) – Also found in the centre of La Plagne opposite the lift-pass office (a short bus journey from Plagne 1800), Le pizz’Burg is a conveniently located pizza and burger bar where you can both eat in or take away. It also proves popular among seasonnaires due to its value for money and mouth-watering burgers.
Chalet D’altitude La Bergerie (££-£££) – A rustic restaurant based at 2100 metres on the slopes (yet still easily accessible for skiers of all levels). The restaurant has recently been expanded and now includes a fast-food service as well as sit-down meals. This is also a great place to stop for coffee, hot chocolate, or a beer. In the afternoon there is normally a DJ ready for Après-ski.
Le Chalet des Colosses (££-£££) – This cosy and inviting restaurant is close to the Bellecôte pistes and just above the gondola. Serving a mixed international menu including vegetarian options and curries, as well as traditional French dishes, there is something for everyone.
Igloo Village (£££) – Enjoy an evening meal in an igloo located opposite Mont Blanc on the Dou du Praz in the heart of La Plagne. This is an option for Wednesday evening when your Ski Famille chalet staff are on their day off. After a 15-minute walk along a marked public footpath from Plagne Villages, you will be welcomed with a hot drink around a fire. After a tour of the village, it’s off to the Igloo restaurant to enjoy a delicious local dish!
Chalet De La Grande Rochette (££-£££) – Situated at the top of the Funiplagne lift from Plagne Centre, this restaurant is easy to find and serves generous portions including many traditional French dishes. If you are looking for a quick meal or a drink, this is the perfect place to stop. It can easily be reached from the slopes for a lunch break, but it may be too far for families looking for a quick bite in the evening on your chalet staff’s day off.
Chalet De La Grande Rochette Restaurant
Recommended Chalets in Plagne 1800
2. Reberty 2000, Les 3 Vallées
Reberty 2000 is one of the picturesque ‘Belle-Menuires’ satellite resorts situated beside the slopes of Les Menuires in Les 3 Vallées (the Three Valleys), France.
It offers a fantastic location packed with traditional Savoyard charm, along with easy access to the amenities of Les Menuires.
Reberty 2000 Key Facts
- High altitude “snow-sure” location at 2000 metres
- Quick and easy access to the vast 3 Valleys ski area
- Charming chalet-style hamlet beside the piste
- Stunning views and excellent chalet facilities
The area deserves its reputation as one of the world’s foremost linked ski areas and our Reberty 2000 chalets are just one quick ski lift below France’s highest resort Val Thorens. Ski in the opposite direction and you quickly access Méribel and Courchevel.
Reberty itself is known for its awe-inspiring views, picturesque scenery and its access to the fantastic skiing and snowboarding that the 3 Valleys has to offer.
Aside from this, Reberty 2000 and the surrounding area also has plenty of Après (after) ski entertainment and family-friendly restaurants to discover.
Our other resort, Les Bruyères, is accessible by bus from Reberty 2000, as is the purpose-built central hub of Les Menuires. Unlike Les Menuires, both Reberty and Les Bruyres are far smaller, prettier, and more family-focused chalet-style satellite resorts.
Skiing
Skiing families can enjoy a traditional Savoyard atmosphere with high altitude, snow sure, doorstep skiing for all abilities. Reberty 2000 is situated right next to the slopes and ski school meeting point.
There are two lift passes available:
- Les Menuires / St Martin – offers access to 160km of pistes and 37 ski lifts
- 3 Valleys – covers wider access to 600km of snowy pistes and 180 ski lifts
Reberty offers simply the best and most affordable way for families to enjoy the magnificent Three Valleys in high quality piste-side chalets at a snow-sure 2000 metre… making it a great option for family ski holidays!
Ski Famille’s three chalets in Reberty 2000 (Eva, Katie 1 and Katie 2) offer unbeatable access to the world’s largest ski area; the Three Valleys. These chalets are right by a gentle blue run; you’ll enjoy a perfect warm up at the start of the day and a sedate cruise back home at the end. All Ski Famille chalets contain in-house childcare; simply meaning all our chalets are equipped with their own dedicated playrooms which serve as the base for childcare.
One ski lift gives you quick access to Val Thorens, Les Menuires and Méribel. You can also ski straight to the foot of the “La Masse” slopes, a favourite corner of the Three Valleys area with both ski writers and previous Ski Famille guests.
Leisure
Tobogganing / Snow Mountain biking
There are several areas reserved for sledging and tobogganing in nearby Les Menuires including a 4km purpose-built toboggan run called Roc ‘n’ Bob. This tobogganing experience will see you and your family navigating your way around a series of fun, challenging bends. The official minimum age for the Roc ‘n’ Bob is 7 years, although we strongly recommend that the minimum age limit should be nearer to 10! Roc’n bike mountain biking is also on offer here, a unique experience which is available for everyone to enjoy.
Roc’n bike is open on every weekday and Roc’ Bob is open on weekdays and Sundays 2pm – 6.45pm.
Skidooing
One for the older kids as thrill-seekers can take to the snow on a skidoo! The perfect activity after a long day out on the slopes, you’ll zoom along stunning country trails as these powerful machines make light work of powdered snow. Skidoo excursions are open from 5.45pm – 9pm.
Paragliding
For a truly memorable experience, get away from it all by taking a breathtaking Paragliding trip. You can enjoy the thrill of being up in the sky while also enjoying some of the most incredible vistas that the surrounding landscape has to offer. Tandem flights are available for both children and adults and at an extra cost your pilot can record your whole experience. Paragliding is open between 9am – noon and 2pm – 6pm.
Ice Castle
The Ice Castle is an extremely popular activity for children. You can find this in nearby La Croisette where children can explore the ice structure, socialise and toboggan on little shovel sledges to their hearts’ content. This is a free activity that all kids can enjoy. Our in-chalet childcarers also take the kids here during the week.
Restaurants
Restaurants serving traditional Savoyard food dominate the options for eating out, but there are choices covering everything from a quick pizza to fine dining.
Reberty possesses a few restaurants just footsteps away from our chalets. There are also a host of options if you take the free local bus to nearby Les Bruyères, our satellite resort, at 1850 metres. Les Bruyères is within walking distance (just over 3 kilometres) however we wouldn’t recommend this in the altitude with children in the mix.
Alternatively, a free resort shuttle bus can take you into central Les Menuires for more choice. Your chalet team will be on hand to make your reservation, give you directions and answer any other general queries you may have.
Our previous guests have recommended the following restaurants:
L’Igloo (££-£££)
Situated at the bottom of the pistes in Reberty, this is a popular restaurant, especially on Wednesday evenings when chalet hosts have the evening off. The cuisine is typically French and Italian serving pizza, lasagne, burgers, tartiflettes and more. Tip: book early and bring cash with you.
Ferme de Reberty (££-£££)
This restaurant-pub in Reberty not only serves delicious lunches but also has a varied range of desserts, coffees, and cold drinks on offer. Why not take a break from the slopes and refuel? Or, better yet, treat yourself to some coffee (or beer if you’d prefer!) and cake to keep you going. Their burgers are rather inviting too!
Creperies La Chouette (££-£££)/ La Chouette (££-£££)
This traditional creperie, owned by the adjoining restaurant La Chouette, is in the centre of Les Bruyères and is perfect if you are in need of a caffeine fix. Renowned for its crepes, it’s a favourite in the village! If you fancy something more filling, the main restaurant has an extensive menu and serves traditional cuisine. The chalet-style decor creates a welcoming and cosy atmosphere for all and also caters for children.
Chalet de Caron (££-£££)
If you decide to venture towards Val Thorens, then Chalet de Caron is a reasonably priced mountainside restaurant that appeals to both adults and children. With beautiful views from the terrace and plenty of seating available, the friendly staff will be happy to accommodate to your needs.
Le Plan B (££)
Positioned at the bottom of the slopes in Les Bruyères, this bar often hosts an array of events and serves cocktails and beers. If you are peckish, food is also served including burgers and pizzas. Open from 10am-2am.
La Ferme De Reberty Restaurant
Recommended Chalets in Reberty 2000
3. Les Bruyères, Les 3 Vallées
Les Bruyères offers excellent high altitude skiing, easy access to the pistes of the 3 Valleys, and a range of slopes that cater to all skiing abilities. Situated just below our Reberty 2000 properties, our Les Bruyères chalets are packed with traditional Savoyard charm, spectacular views and easy access to the amenities in Les Menuires.
Les Bruyères key facts
- Speedy access to the huge 3 Valleys ski area
- Charming chalet-style hamlet with fantastic vistas beside the piste
- Excellent resort facilities including the Aquafun pool and spa complex
- Friendly French atmosphere
- Home to Ski Famille’s Premier Select Plus Chalets with excellent facilities
Skiing
Les Bruyères is the perfect base for groups of mixed ability skiers, including members keen to challenge themselves in terms of either kilometres covered or the technique required for a bit of “steep and deep”.
There are two lift pass options:
- Les Menuires / St Martin – offers access to 160km of pistes and 37 ski lifts
- 3 Valleys – covers wider access to 600km of snowy pistes and 180 ski lifts
The area has a deserved reputation as one of the world’s foremost linked ski areas and our Reberty 2000 chalets are just one quick ski lift below France’s highest resort Val Thorens. Ski in the opposite direction and you quickly access Méribel and Courchevel.
Les Bruyères is known for its picturesque scenery and its access to the fantastic skiing and snowboarding for all abilities that the 3 Valleys has to offer. Whatever you or your children’s level, Les Bruyères has a plethora of runs to suit beginners, intermediates and advanced (on and off-piste) skiers and snowboarders.
Two of Ski Famille’s Les Bruyères chalets, Faucon and Aigle, are situated by the Fontanettes piste (a pretty blue run) offering ‘doorstep’ ski-in / ski-out access. The other two of Ski Famille’s Les Bruyères chalets, Corbeau and Aigrette, are a stone’s throw (or snow throw) away from this blue run.
Leisure
Despite being small, Les Bruyères has a wide array of amenities right on its doorstep including bars, restaurants and a fantastic indoor swimming pool and spa.
Swimming Pool & Spa
Perhaps the most appealing of all the leisure facilities for families and close to our chalets, the Aquafun and Wellness Centre in Les Bruyères is dedicated to wellness, relaxation, and aqua fun. Great for adults wanting to relax and excellent for children with their aqua fun area consisting of an ice theme (ice cave and slides). However, with each of our Les Bruyères chalets offering a hot tub and cinema room, you may find yourself wanting to stay back at your chalet!
Cinema
Les Bruyères Cinema has two screens and some films are shown in English; to check what is on simply pop-in and ask to see the programme. Opens at 6pm, closed on Saturdays. In the case of bad weather, additional sessions will be shown at 2.30pm.
Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is an activity that the whole family can enjoy. Take in the beautiful scenery as you get pulled through snowy forests and alongside beautiful rivers by a team of huskies. This activity is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 10am – 4.30pm.
Paragliding
For a truly memorable experience, get away from it all by taking a breathtaking Paragliding trip. You can enjoy the thrill of being up in the sky while also taking in some of the most incredible vistas that the surrounding landscape has to offer. Tandem flights are available for both children and adults and at an extra cost your pilot can video your whole experience. Open between 9am – noon and 2pm – 6pm.
Children’s Night Sledging
After dusk settles in, why not take your children on the magical adventure that is night sledging. This is an Après ski activity they will love and a real must-do for families with young kids. Open every Wednesday from 5pm – 7pm – this coincides with the chalet day off.
Speed Mountain
Thrill-seekers will love the Speed Mountain ride, an exhilarating toboggan run on rails located in Les Bruyères. This ride is child-friendly (must be over 5 years). You have the option of being two on one toboggan – weight limit 120kg. Children under 1.4 metres must be accompanied by an adult.
Restaurants
Les Bruyères has multiple restaurants just footsteps away from your chalet. There are also a host of options just a few minutes away on the free resort shuttle in central Les Menuires. Drop further down the valley and you can visit the charming village of Saint Martin de Belleville, home to the world-renowned 3 Michelin Star La Bouitte.
Your chalet team will be on hand to make your reservation, give you directions, and answer any other general queries you may have.
Our previous guests have recommended the following restaurants:
La Potinére (££-£££)
This friendly restaurant located at the bottom of the pistes has a cosy rustic feel and serves a varied range of dishes including a mix of local and international cuisine. There is an outside terrace if you would like to dine here for a spot of lunch in the sun. In the evenings this is a popular place to eat, especially on Wednesdays, so be prepared to book in advance.
La Marmite (££ – £££)
This inviting and child-friendly restaurant serves traditional, local brasserie-style cuisine to suit all tastes and includes Savoyard specialities, pizzas, and salads. Located opposite the swimming pool and spa, this restaurant is easy to find.
Mountain Restaurant
L’Antigel (££-£££)
Situated at the mid station between lifts Bruyères 1 and 2, this mountainside restaurant is not only a convenient place to stop but the food is tasty as well. Waiters are family-friendly and a children’s menu is on offer, ensuring all needs are met.
L’Antigel Restaurant
Recommended Chalets in Les Bruyeres
4. Les Gets, Portes du Soleil
Over thirty years ago, we started looking for a ski resort which suited the needs of families… and Les Gets stood out.
The charming village is a pretty, traditional French ski resort offering brilliant local facilities mixed with fantastic skiing.
The resort is full of character and offers a truly magical experience particularly during the festive period.
A short transfer time of approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Geneva Airport makes this a popular choice for guests with young children. This has led to many families choosing to return to this resort and our well-located chalets season after season.
Les Gets key facts
- Varied and pretty wooded slopes linked to the vast Portes du Soleil ski area
- Attractive chalet-style village
- Generally quiet slopes with few queues
- Short airport transfer from Geneva
- Choice of seven Ski Famille family chalets
Skiing
At Les Gets, you can look forward to stunning scenery, varied ski options, and access to a world class ski area.
The picturesque resort is part of the vast Portes du Soleil, meaning you can ski to well-known neighbour resorts such as Morzine and Avoriaz. You can even ski to Switzerland for lunch and be back at your chalet in time for tea!
Les Gets offers access to 650km of snowy pistes served by nearly 200 lifts. 11% of the slopes are green (beginner) runs, with 43% being blue (beginner to intermediate), 35% red (intermediate to advanced) and 11% black (advanced).
You’ll enjoy excellent ski school options (we use and highly recommend Ecole de ski Les Gets 360 International), as well as stunning mountain restaurants and an unrivalled family focus. There are slopes for all levels but Les Gets appeals particularly for families and beginner skiers.
Restaurants
Restaurants serving traditional Savoyard food dominate the options for eating out, but there are choices covering everything from a quick pizza to fine dining.
Our previous guests have recommended the following restaurants:
Restaurants in Resort
La R’mize (££-£££)
Located in the heart of the village, this restaurant has a cosy atmosphere and serves traditional French dishes as well as vegetarian options.
Le Tyrol (££ – £££)
Lovely family friendly restaurant serving a wide variety of food, ranging from traditional alpine dishes including fondues to great pizzas, ribs and steaks. There are plenty of food options for children too as well as a play area located at the back of the restaurant if you don’t want to feel rushed to leave.
Takeaways in Resort
Le Boomerang (££)
Located in the Charmois D’or hotel, Le Boomerang offers a takeaway service as well as the option to eat-in. With a wide selection of pizzas, noodles and even fish and chips, there is something to satisfy everyone’s preferences.
Ô Kariboo (£)
Offers a wide variety of takeaway options, however you can also eat in. The cuisine focus is on French, American Cajun and Creole food with many people loving the Les Gets Burger.
Cafés
Creperie des Gets (££-£££)
This is a great place to please all those in the family with crepes as well as hot chocolates and coffee. Located at the bottom of the Chavannes run (with easy access to the slopes) in the village of Les Gets itself.
La Grande Ourse (££-£££)
Slightly up the slopes and accessible from the top of the Super Chery chair lift, this café, restaurant and bar serves refreshments as well as pasta and pizza. A perfect place to stop off for a hot or cold drink and a bite to eat, with excellent views of Mont Blanc.
Bars
Nightlife is not the main reason that people choose Les Gets, but there are plenty of relaxed bars for an Après ski beer or two. The family focus means that the most common form of Après ski is curling up in front of the chalet fire with a cuppa or glass of fizz. That said, there are friendly bars with live music for those determined to dance the night away.
Bar Bush
A warm, welcoming bar with a wide selection of drinks and a good place for watching sports or taking part in quiz night every Friday evening from 9.30pm. Open 4pm-1am.
La Grande Ourse Restaurant
Leisure
Cinema
Cinéma Le Club is located in the centre of the village with a session at 5.30pm and 8.30pm each day. In case of bad weather, there is an extra session at 2.30pm.
Outdoor Ice Skating Rink
Found in the heart of the village and a firm favourite with children of all ages. Skate-seats are provided for children too small to skate so that they do not miss out on the experience.
Massage Me
We have partnered with Massage Me who offer a mobile massage service. Whether your aim is to indulge in true relaxation on holiday or to re-energise in preparation for more fun on the slopes, they’ll tailor their service to what you need. Massages take place from the comfort of your own chalet. Therapists are on hand from 8am and 8pm, Monday to Friday and 12am to 8pm Saturday and Sunday. Prices start from as little as 45€. For groups, there are 15% discounts available for bookings of 3 or more consecutive hours. Visit their website to book or our staff in resort will be happy to make arrangements for you.
Recommended Chalets in Les Gets
5. Val Thorens, Les 3 Vallées
Set in the Three Valleys, Val Thorens is just a quick ski lift above our other resort that is Les Bruyères.
Val Thorens is Europe’s highest resort at 2300 metres, meaning it’s guaranteed great snow throughout the season. The compact resort makes a great option particularly for families with slightly older children (ideally above 7 years old). This is due to the longer transfer time of about 2 and a half hours from Geneva airport (depending on road conditions and traffic) as well as the effects of high altitude on some children.
As well as being a great option for families with older children, the resort also claimed the Best European Resort (2016), judged by the World Ski Awards.
Skiing
The terrain here suits everyone from beginners to experts. For novices there are convenient, gentle nursery slopes and magic carpets, while for intermediate and advanced skiers there is plenty of choice both locally and across the rest of the renowned Three Valleys.
Val Thorens is positioned surrounded by a horseshoe of dramatic peaks. On a sunny ‘bluebird’ day, you can enjoy a truly spectacular panorama. From Val Thorens, you can ski to our nearby resorts of Les Bruyères and Reberty 2000; ski a little further and you can get to Méribel and Courchevel.
Leisure
Sports Centre
This sports centre, aqua spa and fun park (with trampolines) is open throughout the ski season. With a swimming pool, spa, and wellness area, the centre makes the perfect day out for families.
Ice Diving
A great option for any brave parents. Dive for 30 minutes with an instructor in freezing cold water; a thrilling, once in a lifetime opportunity (from 130€). Open to anyone aged 16 and over, even if you have never been diving before.
Dinner in a Yurt
Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, this makes a great option for the chalet staff day off. After climbing up by scooter or snow groomer, diners discover a medley of dishes in this cosy and warm, typical space, on an ancient stove in the middle of a Mongolian yurt.
Mountain-Top Zip Line
Glide for 1300 metres (or 1 minute 45 seconds) of pure pleasure in breathtaking surroundings, from the 3 Valleys peak at 3230 metres at the top of the Bouchet chairlift (Orelle resort) to the Val Thorens crest at 3000 metres (top of the Thorens Funitel). Age and weight restrictions: 8 years and older, with a minimum weight of 40 kilograms and a maximum weight of 120 kilograms. Their prices start from 55€.
Restaurants
L’Auberge des Balcons (££ – £££)
Close to the centre of Val Thorens, this restaurant is highly regarded for its food while still offering value for money. From burgers and pizzas to tartiflette and raclette, this restaurant has a diverse menu that appeals to both parents and children. Includes indoor and outdoor seating (like most Three Valleys restaurants).
Alpen Art (££ – £££)
A warm and relaxed atmosphere with a caring and friendly service makes this restaurant perfect for families with little ones. Right in the heart of Val Thorens, Alpen Art has a range of French, European and Gastropub food (with options for vegetarians and vegans too).
Chalet des 2 Lacs (££ – £££)
Found just outside Val Thorens, this ‘chalet restaurant’ has recently been taken over and has been receiving rave reviews on its fantastic service and ability to cater for children. Savour a range of options from fondues to lighter meals such as French onion soup and caesar salads. The nuggets and chips are hit with the kids! Contains both indoor and outdoor seating.
La Maison Blanche (£££)
This restaurant has been running for over 30 years and offers one of the best views in Val Thorens. Enjoy the traditional and varied cuisine and Savoyard specialities from the outdoor seating.
La Maison Blanche
Recommended Chalets near Val Thorens
6. Morzine, Portes du Soleil
Morzine is a traditional and inviting village in the beautiful Portes du Soleil ski region of France (close to the Swiss border). Being in the extensive and family-friendly Portes du Soleil allows you to ski from Morzine over to our other resort of Les Gets as well as up to 11 more linked resorts.
Just like Les Gets, Morzine has a similar family-friendly atmosphere and benefits from short transfer times from Geneva airport (1 hour 15 minutes). It’s also one of the closer French Alps resorts for those considering driving to the Alps from the UK. Since it’s a little larger than Les Gets, Morzine is slightly more lively than Les Gets (including its bar scene) which may or may not appeal to you compared to Les Gets. Having said that, Morzine is by no means a party resort!
Morzine is also full of character and has been designed with families in mind, providing a magical experience for those young and older. It’s a fairly flat resort so walking between your chalet and ski school or the ski lifts is not too demanding – important when you are carrying more than one set of skis!
Both Morzine and Les Gets are great for families, however we think Les Gets is more appealing to younger families as well as beginner skiers.
Morzine key facts
- Abundance of wood and slate, and nestling beneath a valley of fir trees, linked to the vast Portes du Soleil ski area
- Attractive, friendly and welcoming chalet-style village
- Short airport transfer from Geneva
- Close to seven Ski Famille family chalets in nearby Les Gets
Skiing
Take the Super Morzine lift up to Avoriaz and explore 450 kilometres of world class skiing. Being in Portes du Soleil gives you easy access to a wide range of pistes. You can also ski to our resort of Les Gets easily by taking the Pleney ski lift.
With about 200 lifts (the top lift being 2466 metres in altitude), you have plenty of options in terms of skiing in this well-connected resort. Morzine is a great option for beginner skiers yet still diverse in its slopes to cater for all ability levels. For intermediates, you’ll love the sense of exploration you get from ranging across several valleys. Brave, advanced skiers may choose to attempt the famous ‘Swiss Wall’, as well as the steep off-piste descents from Les Haut Forts down to Les Prodains.
Leisure
Night sledging
Sledge from the top of the Pleney gondola down a trailhead. Torches are provided!
Pilates & Fitness Classes, Gym, Massage & Physiotherapy
You don’t want aches, pains and injuries to hold you back. Mountain Rehab’s aim is to ensure that you get the best advice and treatment to ensure you can make the most of your time in the mountains. Based within the L’Aiglon de Morzine Residence, Mountain Rehab are easily accessible, just five minutes walk from the centre of the resort.
Snowshoeing
Unveil a whole new side to the resort by exploring the snow-capped mountains, the river and beautiful scenery on foot. This serene experience is available for all ages, this activity is an option if you want a break from skiing. Walks range in difficulty with so the ‘easy’ walks are recommended if you plan on bringing your children along.
Outdoor Ice Skating Rink
Right in the heart of Morzine (underneath the Super Morzine lift), this ice rink features music and lights, adding to the magical atmosphere that families love. There is a charge for both rink entry and for skate hire.
Swimming Pool
Whether you wish to exercise, have fun or simply relax, the Parc des Dereches complex is open daily, featuring a 25 metre swimming pool, a teaching pool, paddling pool, spa area with saunas and Turkish baths, relaxation area with loungers, and a restaurant serving everything from cold snacks to hot meals. The pool is open in the afternoon most days and is a great option for families if skiing visibility is bad.
Cinema
Situated in the heart of Morzine, Le Rex cinema shows many films – just look out for films in ‘VO’ for films in English.
Bowling Alley
From relaxing activities to sports, there is something for everyone, every ability and every age in Morzine.
Dog Sledding
Head out into the forests and beautiful rivers and enjoy a ride getting pulled along by huskies. Dog sledding is an activity that the whole family can enjoy.
Restaurants
Le Chaudron (££ – £££)
A well run, friendly restaurant with brilliant hospitality. Le Chaudron has options to sit outside as well as a cosy interior. The burgers are a popular choice, as is the tartiflette.
Le Colibri (££ – £££)
A great variety of options on the menu at modest prices makes this restaurant one that the whole family can enjoy.
La Chaudanne (££ – £££)
This authentic restaurant and wine bar based in the village receives consistently good reviews and is a popular choice for families.
Le Grillon (££ – £££)
A great menu with local French specialities such as raclette, plus an array of pizzas, burgers and salads – there’s bound to be something the whole family will enjoy here.
La Briz Olee (££ – £££)
Found by Meribel, this restaurant may be too far out for your Wednesday dinner, however it makes a great lunch option if you plan on skiing in this direction. Briz Olee serves a range of French and European dishes, with the cheese options (raclette and fondue) being a popular choice.
Recommended Chalets near Morzine
7. Belle Plagne, Paradiski
Belle Plagne is in the Paradiski area a little above our resort of Plagne 1800 and Plagne Centre. Sitting at 2050 metres, the charming resort is a pretty snow sure destination, offering a true mountainous feel.
Similar to our resort of Plagne 1800, Belle Plagne is full of character with buildings made of local wood and stone. The pedestrianised (car-free!) village centre is ideal for families – especially when attempting to walk in your clunky boots whilst carrying your skis.
You can take the free shuttle bus between each of the Plagne villages so you can enjoy the entertainment in each satellite-resort.
Skiing
With 425 kilometres of pistes (the longest being a whopping 10 kilometres long), there’s plenty of skiing to be done in and around Belle Plagne. Skiers of all levels will enjoy the runs on the snow-sure glacier above the resort.
There are a couple of blue runs leading from Belle Plagne down to Plagne Bellecote, from where a selection of gondolas and chair lifts will whisk you off to your chosen part of the mountain. The cruisey blues are family friendly and great for those wanting to advance off the beginners area. You can also access the midway point of the Roche de Mio gondola in the Belle Plagne village to access the higher ski area and the glacier.
Family skiing could not be easier with easy access to the children’s snow garden, beginner ski area and lift to the snow park. You can cruise down into Bellecote and link up with the chairlift. A number of ski schools are based in Belle Plagne so your day could not start any better.
For the more advanced skiers, check out the most testing pistes off the Biolley chair above Aime La Plagne, or explore the off-piste areas. There is also a large park at Belle Plagne, and just below at Plagne Bellecote is a 90 metre half-pipe.
Restaurants
L’Auberge des Balcons (££-£££)
A small but highly regarded restaurant with a personal service on the edge of Belle Plagne. The food is delicious while also being value for money. Vegetarian options are available too.
Les Inversens (££-£££)
Situated near the top of the Roche de Mio and offering one of the best views in the region from their large outdoor seating area, Les Inversens has a relaxing atmosphere where you can watch the world go by from high up! Even from inside, you can enjoy the views from the 360 windows. For this reason, Les Inversens makes a great, ‘chilled out’ lunch stop during a day on the slopes!
Le Ti & Yu (£)
If you’re looking for a quick, affordable and great tasting pizza, this is the spot! This small but friendly restaurant is in Plagne Centre’s small shopping precinct. You can ski into Plagne Centre or take the free, regular bus to and from the restaurant.
Le Chalet des Colosses (££-£££)
This restaurant has been running for a number of years and provides great tasting French food (with the fondues being a firm-favourite) plus child and vegetarian options. Many of the reviews praised the brilliant service and ambience.
Leisure
Belle Plagne is a fairly peaceful resort with few leisure activities, however due to its connections to Plagne Centre and the other linked Plagne villages, your family will have easy access to the entertainment that the Paradiski area has to offer. The same activities that apply to Plagne 1800 also applies to Belle Plagne; scroll up to near the top of the blog to view these activities.
Conclusion
Many of the best family ski resorts are found in the French Alps in regions such as:
- The Paradiski area: Plagne 1800 and Belle Plagne
- Les 3 Vallées: Les Bruyères, Reberty 2000 and Val Thorens
- Portes du Soleil: Les Gets and Morzine
All these resorts offer skiing for all levels, great ski school options for beginners, a range of fun activities if you’re looking for more than just the skiing, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants (and even bars) with a wide range of choice on their menus.
