1st winter holiday with children, advise please!!

[CurlyN]

DP and I are seasonal snowboarders (haven't been for 4 years though). This year We would like to introduce our DS 3 and 5 to the world of snow. Any ideas on bargin resorts that are great for kids, plenty to do off piste(just incase). short transfers. etc etc anything that could make life a litte easier much appreciated.

For a short transfer look at resorts like Portes du Soleil such as Morzine and Avoriaz in France, Engelberg in Switzerland or Seefeld (nr Innsbruck) and Kirchberg/Westendorf/Scheffau area in Austria - not sure about bargains as such though, but you may still get a last minute deal. Many resorts would consider 3 too young to be in skischool so do check there is alternative childcare instead.

thanks lizs, very useful, however the resorts you've mentioned do you know if they have creche or snowgarden facilities?

There is one in Engelberg and the ski school will take them from 3 1/2 but it is usually held on a different mountain to the main skiing area unless snow is dodgy(as it has been) or area very busy. Haven't been to the other areas skiing with kids but operators like Esprit and Crystal employ their own childcare staff in those resorts. Otherwise if you google the resort websites that should tell you what is around locally.

thanks lizs going to have a search now. will let you know how I get on.

CurlyN, have a look at les deux alpes too. They have a snowboard park. It is quite a small resort so easy to get back to the village. ESF children's facilities are right in the village too. Outdoor heated swimming pool and ice rink. About two hours from Grenoble airport.

thanks foxtrot, am currently working on dex alpes, sounds lovely, and quite reasonable, from what i can see so far. Plus the DP is happier.