Top must-do ski resorts for children aged 7-12 years

Six 100% family-oriented ski resorts for an unforgettable winter break with your (pre) pre-teens! It’s not always easy to please mini snow fans who already know exactly what they want! Once the “ultra cool” ski suit is on, the host of activities on offer in the Southern Alps is sure to enchant even the most demanding little skiers. 3, 2, 1… Go!

Try your hand at boardercross at Montclar les 2 Vallées

Ready, Steady, Go!

Nestling in the heart of the Southern Alps, the village resort of Montclar les 2 Vallées welcomes visitors with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, for a guaranteed successful family skiing holiday. Rising to an altitude of 2,500 metres, this family-style ski domain is Europe’s only self-managed ski resort. Children are sure to find something they love among the plethora of activities on offer, whether it’s whooshing down the two toboggan trails or frolicking in the snow park for more seasoned little skiers. Boardercross is an exciting activity that will tempt young downhill fans: this obstacle course (timed or not) alternates bumps, gates and banked turns – a definite must with pals and the last one to arrive donates their afternoon snack! A bonus at the resort: check out the packed January activities programme, including a children’s weekend and the resort’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Fun for every taste!

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A school bag and skis at Orcières

Lessons in the snow!

At Orcières Merlette 1850, you can ski with all the family outside school holidays too. This family-style ski resort graced with breathtaking vistas hosts a “Cartable à la neige” package where kids can continue learning… on the slopes! On the menu: skiing and mountain discovery in the morning with ESF and ESI (French and International Ski School) instructors, and lessons and help with homework in the afternoon aided and abetted by qualified teachers. This tried and tested programme also includes unlimited access to the local pool and skating rink. An original solution for children aged 6-11 years, the programme is available in junuary, february, march and april (dates to be confirmed). A holiday with all the family without losing out on lessons? It’s child’s play at Orcières Merlette 1850!

A change is as good as a rest at Gréolières-les-Neiges

A smart activity menu for all the family

Set in beautiful Alpine valleys bordering the Côte d’Azur, the little, family-style ski resort of Gréolières-les-Neiges welcomes visitors in style with dazzling views over the Mediterranean coast, Alps and Italy. The resort has teamed up with the Val d’Allos ski domains to launch a whole new solidarity concept designed to support small ski resorts – a first in France! In addition to winter sports, the resort offers a tempting palette of must-do activities for all the family, including escape game, treetop adventure courses and pony treks.

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Picking up speed at Vars

Thrills and spills guaranteed!

If you’re seeking a skiing break at a lively family resort, head to Vars La Forêt Blanche. This buzzing, family-style ski resort hosts a great choice of activities for all ages, ranging from spectacular torchlit descents by ski school instructors to the “Vars en Scène” show and its colourful firework display. Add to that the delightful sound of children’s laughter echoing through the larch forests and you’re sure to take plenty of magnificent memories back home. What’s more, Vars is also home to a speed skiing stadium for adrenalin freaks, with tips and tricks given by former record holder Philippe Billy. This thrilling activity is open to seasoned skiers over 6 years old who have already earned their 3rd star.

An encounter with reindeer and bison at Chabanon-Selonnet

Furry friends galore!

Nature lovers will adore the family-style ski resort of Chabanon-Selonnet. And starry eyes are guaranteed: your kids are sure to fall in love with the resort’s majestic reindeer and American bison ! Alternatively, you can enjoy patting the farm animals at Ferme Béridon, or revelling in a dog-sledding adventure in the fir forest. Magical! Getting back to the slopes, kids will have a ball on the safe toboggan runs, while children over 7 years can enjoy a snowshoeing adventure with all the family, or polish up their style at the ski school… And for a magical evening out on the pistes, opt for a night-time skiing session on one of Europe’s longest nocturnal slopes!

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Perfect your poise at Isola 2000

Everything you need to touch up your technique

What’s the best ski resort if you want to get your future champions up to speed? Without hesitation, opt for Isola 2000. This family-style ski resort welcomes you at the summit of the Southern Alps with a vast palette of activities for children, including the art of skiing at the ESF and ESI (French and International Ski Schools), fun and frolics on the safe toboggan runs, hilarity and new friends in the games room, or discovery tours of Chastillon cow farm. And the added extras? Set at a height of 2,300 metres in the “Marmottes” area, the Isola 2000 snow park is the ideal spot for discovering new snowy sensations. What’s more, it also features a Family Park. And if you and hubby fancy a bit of alone time to explore the trickier pistes, simply drop your cherubs off at the day care centre, welcoming children aged 6-11 years.