Top 5 Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in France for a Snowy Getaway with the Kids

Top 5 Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in France for a Snowy Getaway with the Kids

May 12, 2025

Top 5 Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in France for a Snowy Getaway with the Kids

Planning a family ski holiday? France is a long-time favourite for UK families looking to hit the slopes—with good reason. It's easily accessible, offers fantastic ski schools, and is packed with resorts that go the extra mile to make things easy and fun for families.


1. Avoriaz – A Magical, Car-Free Snow Globe

Avoriaz feels like it was designed with families in mind. Sitting high up in the Portes du Soleil ski area, this traffic-free resort is ideal for kids, who can walk (or toboggan!) around safely. Plus, it’s a proper winter wonderland with wooden-clad buildings and snow-covered streets.

Why UK Families Love It:

  • The Village des Enfants is one of the best kids’ ski schools in the Alps.

  • Horse-drawn sleigh rides instead of cars—how festive is that?

  • Easy to reach from Geneva Airport (under two hours’ drive).

Top Tip: Book a self-catered apartment right on the slopes for true ski-in, ski-out convenience.


2. La Rosière – Sunshine, Scenery, and Super for First Timers

La Rosière is a hidden gem perched above the Tarentaise Valley, offering a quieter, more relaxed vibe—ideal if it’s your first ski holiday with the kids. It’s linked with Italy’s La Thuile resort, so you can ski across the border for pizza!

Why UK Families Love It:

  • Gentle slopes and good-value lift passes.

  • Plenty of wide greens and blues for beginners.

  • Excellent ESF ski school and Les Galopins kids’ club for little ones.

Bonus: South-facing slopes mean lots of sunshine—perfect for cold-sensitive kids (and parents!).


3. Les Gets – Cosy Alpine Village with a Big Heart

Just over an hour from Geneva, Les Gets is full of old-world charm and is hugely popular with British families. It’s part of the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, but its smaller size and friendly atmosphere make it ideal for younger children.

Why UK Families Love It:

  • The Grand Cry adventure zone with tipis and treasure hunts.

  • Excellent British-run ski schools, including BASS and Snowberry.

  • Family-friendly restaurants and a charming, walkable village centre.

Top Tip: Visit in mid-January or March for quieter slopes and better prices.


4. Flaine – Practical, Snow-Sure, and Family-Savvy

Flaine might not win prizes for beauty, but it more than makes up for it in ease and reliability. Just 75 minutes from Geneva, this purpose-built resort offers quick access, guaranteed snow, and accommodation right on the pistes.

Why UK Families Love It:

  • Great value for money in the Grand Massif ski area.

  • Lots of wide, easy runs and top-notch nursery slopes.

  • Good childcare and ski school options, including English-speaking instructors.

Good to Know: The altitude (1,600m) and north-facing slopes mean it holds snow well all season.


5. Les Menuires – Affordable Access to the Three Valleys

Want the world-class skiing of the Three Valleys but without the Courchevel price tag? Les Menuires is a brilliant option. It’s more laid-back and wallet-friendly than its neighbours, yet still offers amazing ski access and superb family facilities.

Why UK Families Love It:

  • Awarded the Famille Plus label for its excellent childcare and family focus.

  • Dedicated beginner areas and fantastic ESF snow gardens for little ones.

  • Modern apartments and chalets with direct access to the slopes.

Bonus: Sledging runs, swimming pools, and indoor play centres for off-slope fun.

France remains a top choice for UK families heading to the mountains. These resorts offer everything you need: short transfers, excellent ski schools, gentle pistes, and fun activities off the slopes. Whether you’re teaching your kids to ski for the first time or looking for somewhere new to explore, you can’t go wrong with these five tried-and-tested favourites.


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