With a little planning before you arrive, skiing can be a fantastic and rewarding family holiday. Children love the excitement of a ski resort and the eternal Christmas atmosphere and if they're older than four years old, they can start learning to ski and will soon be beating their parents down the slopes. Childcare facilities and ski school do get very busy so if possible book well in advance.
Rhormoos has been praised for its facilities for children. There is an extensive range of gentle slopes - ideal for building up confidence. There's also a Kinderland on Planai.
Where to stay
Haus Central is a good option, as it is close to the slopes and offers clean and comfortable accommodation. For families this is a little way from the busy nightlife so easy to get a good nights sleep! However they do offer a shuttle bus to take you into town. Tour operators worth trying include
Inghams,
Crystal and
Alpine Answers.
Top ski school tips
- Children generally can start skiing from around four years old (older for snowboarding)
- Young children, or those new to skiing, may only manage half a day - it can be very tiring when they're not used to it
- Plenty of high factor suncream is essential - factor 30+ and water resistant
- Younger eyes are more sensitive so it is important to make kids wear good quality sunglasses or goggles all the time. If you only plan to buy one or the other, buy goggles.
- If possible, book with an instructor who speaks good English so your child can understand the instructions and if there's a problem, they can understand it
