Choosing the right ski resort for the whole family is the key to a successful holiday—stress-free slopes and guaranteed smiles. Too large, too technical, or too expensive… some destinations can quickly become disappointing when traveling with children. So, which resorts truly tick all the boxes?
As a specialist in mountain vacation rentals for over 40 years, GSI by Foncia reveals its selection of the 7 ideal resorts for a family getaway in the Northern Alps this winter.
1. Les Saisies — The queen of family resorts in Savoie
Nestled at an altitude of 1,650 m in the Beaufortain massif, Les Saisies has built a reputation as a 100% family-friendly resort. Its slogan? “Happy Altitude”. And it certainly lives up to it.
Why families love Les Saisies
- Accessible ski area: 160 km of slopes in the Espace Diamant, with a majority of blue and green runs perfect for beginners and children.
- Safety in the heart of the resort: The resort center is pedestrian-only, making it ideal for letting children move around freely.
- Nordic skiing and sledding: With 120 km of cross-country trails, Les Saisies is the go-to resort for variety.
- Premium accommodation: GSI by Foncia offers high-end options like the Résidence Les Armaillis and Chalet de Jeanne, two exceptional locations featuring spas.
Our top pick
The Chalet Napachou, offered by GSI, features a private jacuzzi and hotel-style services for a truly rejuvenating family holiday.
2. La Plagne — The Paradiski giant, designed for families
With its 11 villages and 425 km of slopes, La Plagne is one of the most extensive ski areas in the world—yet it remains remarkably accessible for families.
Family highlights in La Plagne
- Variety of levels: From green slopes for first turns to expert couloirs in Bellecôte, every family member will find their happiness.
- Human-sized villages: Plagne-Centre, Les Coches, or Montchavin allow for quiet stays away from the hustle and bustle.
- Off-ski activities: Olympic bobsleigh track, ice rink, snowshoeing—there is no shortage of programs for foggy days.
GSI by Foncia offers ski-in/ski-out apartments in La Plagne and Les Coches, ideally located to enjoy Paradiski from the moment you step outside.
3. Valmorel — The hidden gem that families love
Valmorel is a resort that earns its loyalty; once discovered, visitors return year after year. Built with respect for Savoyard architecture—without concrete towers or aggressive urbanism—it offers an enchanting setting in the heart of the Grand Domaine.
What sets Valmorel apart
- A pedestrian and compact resort, ideal for young children.
- Wide and well-groomed slopes, perfectly suited for learning.
- A preserved authentic atmosphere, far from mass tourism.
Explore the Chalets Lumi in Valmorel, our range of premium chalets offered by GSI: Magdalena, Meije, Gaspésie… exceptional properties for memories that will last a lifetime.
4. Crest-Voland / Notre-Dame-de-Bellecombe — The preserved Espace Diamant
In the heart of the Beaufortain massif, these two linked resorts attract families looking for authenticity and preserved nature. The Espace Diamant totals 192 km of slopes, including an exceptional Nordic offering.
- Human-sized resorts with a warm welcome.
- Picture-postcard landscapes between forests and mountain pastures.
- More affordable rates than the larger neighboring resorts.
5. Le Grand-Bornand — The authenticity of “Bo” village
Ranked among the most popular resorts for families, Le Grand-Bornand combines a lively village, a varied ski area (90 km of slopes), and Nordic activities within the Aravis mountains.
- A bustling market and village shops in the heart of the resort.
- Sledding runs and play areas for toddlers.
- Night skiing on selected evenings to spice up family nights.
6. Praz-sur-Arly — Peace and nature at the foot of Mont-Blanc
For families fleeing the commotion of big resorts, Praz-sur-Arly is a haven of peace. With breathtaking views of Mont-Blanc and the quiet slopes of the Espace Diamant, it is the ideal destination for families with young children.
7. Auris-en-Oisans — Alpe d’Huez’s best-kept secret
A satellite of Alpe d’Huez, Auris-en-Oisans provides access to the 250 km of slopes of the Grand Domaine Ski—but at much more family-friendly prices and atmosphere. Ideal for enjoying a massive domain without breaking the bank.
How to choose your resort based on your children’s age?
How to choose a resort based on your children’s age?
Ages 0 – 4: Praz-sur-Arly, Valmorel
Pedestrian-friendly, quiet, and low-traffic resorts.
Ages 5 – 10: Les Saisies, Le Grand-Bornand
Numerous green and blue runs, and “jardins des neiges” (ski kindergartens).
Ages 11 – 16: La Plagne, Les Arcs
Large ski areas, snowparks, and a wide variety of activities.
Book your family mountain rental with GSI by Foncia
For over 40 years, GSI by Foncia has been selecting the best apartments, chalets, and luxury residences across 18 resorts in the Northern Alps. Our local advisors, present in every resort, support you from booking until you return home.
- ✅ Best price guaranteed by booking directly
- ✅ Concierge services: linen, cleaning, ski passes
- ✅ Secure online payment
- ✅ Physical branches in every resort to welcome you
