Meribel's reputation precedes it - the pretty resort in the middle of the Three Valleys where Brits love to party. Wooden chalets, fantastic skiing, sunny slopes, lively and varied apres-ski... people fall in love with this place; it attracts a warm loyalty from visitors who return season after season.

The Hotel Alex is a large family-run 4-star hotel with interesting decor and all amenities well taken of. If it's the personal touch you are after, the family that runs this hotel will look after your every need and wish during your stay. The hotel is large with 84 rooms and a wealth of activities such as indoor tennis, squash and a fully equipped gym. For relaxation, a large indoor pool, sauna and steam room as well as masseuses on hand to relieve your aches and pains. For families with children, there is a kids room and plenty to keep the active ones busy.   

Jon is 38 and has lived in Schladming, Austria with his family for the last four years. Until recently, he owned a small hotel in Ramsau near Schladming but has just sold this and bought a house in Schladming. Working for the hotel part time this season as a cook, he spends as much time as possible doing any snow sports (even cross country skiing!!) and this year, is going to start ski touring. After making the decision not to return to Brighton with his family, he’s excited about skiing as much as possible and writing for Mad Dog about the goings on in Schaldming. Read Jon's blog...

If you love the exhilaration of flying down a slope and negotiating tricky terrain in the crisp mountain air, the Alps have plenty to offer outside of the ski season. From mornings spent skiing glaciers to afternoons spent mountain biking and white water rafting, adrenaline junkies have more enough to keep them sated. Read our guide to our top five summer resorts…