Val d'Isere
The Val d'Isere Ski Resort combines with Tignes to form the large Tignes-Val d'Isére Ski Area offering endless runs to suit all tastes and abilities. The resort is composed of La Daille, Val d'Isere centre and Le Fornet, all linked by a free bus service. At the bottom of the famous World Cup piste, La Daille provides easy access to skiing via the Funival funicular and brand new Symphony 10 person gondola with 50 cabins whilst Val d'Isere centre has a lovely Alpine village atmosphere. Val is renowned for its nightlife, which ranges from lively clubs to cosy creperies and traditional restaurants.
Obergurgl
If you’re looking for guaranteed snow, queue-free modern lifts and immaculate slope grooming then according to Ingham Ski, Obergurgl is the resort for you. Surrounded by glacier-topped 3000 meter high peaks it is known as the ‘diamond of the alps’ it is perfect as a family ski resort as many of the hotels offer kids activities and are close to the ski school and lifts. At the end of Ötztal, encircled by the snow-covered 3000 meter high peaks, the tranquil mountain village of Obergurgl-Hochgurgl towers at almost 2000 meters. It is one of the Alps’ most snow-reliable ski areas.
Upscale hotels and restaurants are directly on the slopes are ready for you to relax after a day exploring the skiing on 112 kilometers of pistes.
Meribel
Meribel is in the heart of the 3 Valleys ski area, fast lifts link eight resorts together, meaning you can explore them all without having to take your skis off. The 3 Valleys is the largest ski area in the world and one of the most beautiful of the legendary ski destinations. The 3 Vallées ski area has the largest number of linked open runs in Europe throughout the season. The slopes are all located between 1,300 and 3,230m, and 85% of them are above 1,800m. meaning that the 3 Vallées guarantee snow cover 5 months a year.
Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen is a rustic, traditional village with modern lifts and access to the largest ski area in Austria. The large Zillertal ski area has 535km of pistes and also has the Hintertux glacier with jaw dropping views as well as the infamous Harakiri piste - if you are brave enough (78% gradient). It is has a brilliant snow park for more experienced children and adults. See the video for a taste!
Selva
When it comes to scenic skiing, Selva’s a ski resort that really brings it. Explore well-groomed slopes with UNESCO-protected views on all sides, and don’t miss ticking off the Sella Ronda circuit – a 26km-route of mainly reds and blues that loops some of the most dramatic mountains in the Dolomites. First-timers are well looked after too, with a big nursery area right by the main gondola.
Selva, part of Dolomiti Superski, the largest lift system in Europe, combines the best of Italian and South Tyrolean traditions for a unique ski holiday experience
A big thank you to Inghams and Crystal Ski, their websites are full of lots of helpful guides and information to help you choose the best family ski resort. Please add your favourites to the comments if you have stayed in a resort that you feel beats these! Best suggestion wins a skiing related gift :)