When it comes to finding the perfect ski resort for your family holiday, there’s a whole host of elements to take into consideration. For us, convenient, welcoming resorts with a great choice of beginner slopes, excellent ski schools and plenty of fun resort activities are a must.

It’s not always easy to find a resort that ticks all the boxes but the following resorts have firmly established themselves as family favourites. Here are Ski Independence's top picks:

Avoriaz, France

If you're looking for ski-in/ski-out convenience, relaxed self-catering accommodation that evokes a home-from-home feel and 600km of pistes to suit all levels, car-free Avoriaz is the perfect choice. Located in the heart of the vast Portes du Soleil ski, this attractive resort has a magical atmosphere for children, especially with horse-drawn sleighs providing the only means of transport.

Avoriaz is home to an excellent choice of well-respected British-run ski and snowboard schools offering a variety of lessons types to suit your needs. If you fancy an afternoon away from the slopes, why not check out the Aquariaz centre with tropical rainforest inspired pools and activities.

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Villars, Switzerland

With traditional Swiss charm and mountain views, Villars is a real beauty of a resort offering a warm welcome to families. The uncrowded ski area is the perfect place for children (and adults) to learn and everyone can enjoy a wide range of activities away from the slopes, including bowling, snowshoeing and sledging.

In terms of ski schools, you are spoilt for choice. The local Swiss Ski School is a favourite with Ski Independence, offering flexible group lessons and Kindergarten options that can be tailored to a short break. If you prefer a British-run ski school, consider New Generation. Keeping the group sizes small, the hot chocolate breaks regular and the lessons playful and engaging, they run a wonderful programme of ski lessons for kids from 4 to 13 years old. 

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Sun Peaks, Canada

Family favourite Sun Peaks boasts Canada’s second largest ski area, in the heart of beautiful British Columbia. Perfect for complete beginners – yet with plenty to challenge expert skiers and riders – this ski-in/ski-out resort offers the ultimate in slopeside convenience.

Sun Peak’s compact village, situated right next to the slopes, has a wonderful relaxed atmosphere. The ease of access to all three ski mountains, fun child-friendly events programme and excellent resort amenities all serve to cement its status as one of Canada’s best ski destinations for families.

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Les Arcs, France

Nowhere does purpose-built ski villages better than France, and the compact four that make up the resort of Les Arcs are among the best. With traffic-free streets, easy-to-access nursery slopes for beginners and the vast, snow sure Paradiski area to explore, Les Arcs offers the ultimate in family convenience.

The superb Cariboo Kids Club at Arc 1950 offers one-of-a-kind care for children aged 3 to 12 years old. Designed to provide a joyful introduction to the mountains, experienced group leaders put on a varied programme of winter fun which can also be combined with traditional ski lessons.

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Aspen Snowmass, USA

The Aspen Snowmass ski area is spread across four unique peaks in the Elk mountain range: Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, Snowmass and Aspen Highlands. Snowmass is the largest of the four Aspen mountains, and a popular choice among families thanks to its gorgeous groomed runs, award-winning ski school and ski-in/ski-out resort base.

We’ve hand-picked the very best hotels and condos in both Aspen town and the modern, purpose-built Snowmass resort, around 15km to the west. From lovingly-restored historic buildings steeped in elegant ambiance to cosy boutique mountain lodges, all bring you first-rate facilities and unparalleled access to Aspen’s slopes.

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Call one of our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097 or submit an enquiry online for further information & advice on booking your ski holiday