Childcare facilities and ski school do get very busy so if possible book well in advance.
Le Grand Bornand is a perfect destination for families, especially young ones, with loads of childcare and activity options, and runs a scheme called “Famille Plus”, which tailor-makes programmes for families. Ski passes are free to under fives, and cheap rates are available for under eights and under 15s.
Where to stay
Self-catering is sometimes the best option with kids, due to differing meal times etc. Try
Interhome or
Chinchal, who both offer self-catered apartments and chalets.
Chalet les Saytels is a Great Western hotel, very welcoming and well positioned for the town and the bubble lifts.
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
