Here’s our round-up of the best destinations and deals for ski holidays for this Christmas and New Year. Ensure you book now, so you don’t miss out. By Anna Savva
St Anton, Arlberg, Austria © Colin Capelle
St Anton, Austria
Situated in the attractive mountain village of St Anton in the Arlberg region of Austria, this first-class family friendly resort is known as ‘the cradle of alpine skiing’. This well connected resort is situated only a couple of hours drive away from Innsbruck, Friedrichshafen and Zurich International airports and boasts excellent rail links.
The extensive ski range has some 340km of pistes to suit all levels, with 180km off-piste terrain for more advanced skiers. Arlberg Ski School offers dedicated hands on ski and snowboard tuition for all ages and flexible childcare options.
With its modern lift system and range of stylish accommodation, spas, shops, restaurants and nightlife, its après skiing scene is second to none. This year the resort is running an ‘Advent Magic in the Park’ event throughout the season, which includes a Christmas themed trail, traditional story-telling and handicraft sessions for children.
Click here for more info on accommodation and ski pass packages
Ski & Snowboard Freestyle, La Plagne, France © Robert van Dijk
La Plagne, France
The idyllic high altitude paradiski ski area in La Plagne, France boasts six resorts ranging from 1800 to 2100m pistes to suit all abilities. This resort also runs cool alternative, fun winter experiences, including Olympic track bob sleighing, pro sledging, ice wall climbing, freestyle ski-park and relaxing spa days.
Special deals this winter include a free child’s ski pass when you buy two adult passes. There is a wealth of chic chalet accommodation on offer as well as more affordable modern apartments.
For special discounted accommodation deals, check out the official website.
Verbier, Switzerland © Leo-setä
Verbier, Switzerland
Situated two hours from Geneva by coach, Verbier in Switzerland is a large multi-ability resort and known snowboarder’s haven. This highly fashionable ski resort is known for its winter sun and breath taking Alpine panoramas. The ‘ice cream scoop’ mountain bowl is a renowned sun-trap, while Verbier nightlife has a reputation for being cosmopolitan and trendy. The resort also incorporates a huge family-friendly 10km-long toboggan run.
Special offers this year include a free helmet, skis and boots for kids bookings, as well as reduced price lift passes for over 65s.
For a comprehensive guide to the best accommodation on offer check out the resort’s official website.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming , USA © Zach Dischner
Jackson Hole, Wyoming, USA
Jackson Hole in Wyoming, USA is regularly voted one of the top resorts in the USA by ski enthusiasts. Part of the Grand Teton National Park mountain range, the resort’s remote valley basin is 60 miles long and home to a diverse wildlife habitat of roaming moose and elk.
It boasts decent snow coverage with an average fall of 32ft in the winter. A skier’s paradise, the range has been subject to extensive renovation over the last decade making it ever more popular. This year sees the introduction of a superb new electronic pass system.
For some of the best lodging deals, check out the resort’s exclusive ‘Ski Free Stay Free’ Packages.
Avoriaz, France © Malcolm Murdoch
Avoriaz, France
Avoriaz was voted Best Family Resort at the 2013 World Snow Awards in London.
Comprising 650km of the Portes de Soleil ski range, this beautiful resort is known for having some of the most dependable winter snowfall in Europe.
With a unique family focus, this resort is completely pedestrianised and offers excellent childcare and play activities. The night-time sledging activities is a particular highlight.
From the 20th of Dec to 2nd Jan 2015 Avoriaz’s ‘dreaming of a white Christmas’ program caters to children young and old with ice sculpture demos, skate rink, sky lantern releases and a Santa theme extravaganza sound and light show.
Book your ski pass early and get a 10% discount, as well other early bird offers, here.
Happy holidays!
