New skiers - 3, 9 and 12

[Remmy123]

Hi, I really want to take the family ski ing next Feb half term so this is early planning but advice welcome.

I have 3 children 3, 9 and 12.

We will be on a budget esp as first time ski ing don't want to spend too much first time, want to start saving now for it.

Can 3 year olds go to ski school? If not if need a crèche? Would also want to sledge/play in snow with kids as doubt if ski for hours everyday

Any advice I've v welcome. Thank you!

With 3 dc you ll need two hotel/chalet rooms or self catering appt for 6.
Try pricing up on ski web or igluski to get an idea then add ski passes ski lessons etc...it isnt cheap.

Thanks - so you think I can do it for 4-5k?

Hi @remmy123 I think you could do it for 4-5K.

If you are looking at next season then start looking May June time as its a really good time to get more of a bargain.

Its harder to get a family room for more than 4 people with some of the package companies but you could look at putting something together yourself quite easily and just look at hotels direct on somewhere like Booking.com.

You might prefer to get an apartment with the option for bakery delivery in the am if you are looking at France as you have quite a little one so its good to have the kitchen to use.

You may be able to get your 3 year old into more of a 'snow play' session where they may introduce a bit of ski amongst other snow activites but really 3 is quite young to pick it up still. Have a google of club Piou Piou in France.

Italy is good for families you could maybe look at La Thuille or Les Saisies or Montgenvre in France. The slopes get quite busy at HT so its good to pick a smaller resort.

This article may help you make some decisions:
skiyetimagic.co.uk/hlaf-term-ski-holiday-hacks-blog-post/

Is your three your old closer to age 3 or age 4 when you want to go?

I’d really consider going with a company for your first time. For your budget you’d be looking at snowbizz which is self catering but has the option of an evening meal package in a restaurant.

The childcare with them is amazing.

My single biggest piece of advice is don’t use ESF. They have large class sizes and mainly speak french. I’ve made that mistake and now my children go with a more English speaking ski school.

I’d also really recommend the first week of Easter holidays and going to a high resort. Will be lovely weather and cheaper. We go to val thorens as it’s AMAZING for beginners with accommodation that opens onto the nursery garden if you stay in residence village Montana.

Then put your 3 year old in Prosneige next door for ski lessons 9-12. Feel free to PM for any advice.

Great thank you for all of your advice! X