Top Family-Friendly Ski Destinations and What to Pack

Italy’s Dolomites has the 3 Ps perfected: peaks, pizza and plenty of activities! This distinctly alpine part of northern Italy is home to many family-friendly ski resorts, including Cortina d'Ampezzo which sits in the heart of the Veneto Dolomites and is loved for its mix of skiing and unique Ladin culture all wrapped up in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

Now, a trip to the Italian mountains wouldn't be complete without a delicious dinner to fuel them after a stint on the slopes. The region’s villages have a rustic charm with cobbled streets and plenty of restaurants, perfect for hungry kids (and parents too). Nestled amongst dramatic peaks, a trip into town comes highly recommended, especially after a day’s skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating or tobogganing. For their skiwear, why not kit them out in high-spec brand Moncler Enfant for a touch of Italian style? Its down-padded coats are perfect for keeping the cold out and look great layered over a chic, cosy knit as they wind down under the gaze of the dramatic snow-topped mountains.

Where to stay: Reconnect with nature at the Feuerstein Nature Family Resort or try Cavallino Bianco for a family-friendly spin on luxury accommodation.

Where to eat: La Tana dell'Orso, which translates to The Bear’s Den, for food your little ones will love and interiors parents will enjoy.

What to wear: Snowsuits, cosy base layers and warm gloves.

One of Norway's oldest ski destinations, Geilo (pronounced yay-low) is popular for its welcoming atmosphere, forested mountains, picturesque fjords, and for being especially family-oriented with their ski schools focusing on first-timers. Let’s also not forget the luxurious spas on offer, perfect after a hard day’s skiing while the little ones make pen pals at the many kids’ clubs available.

If you're looking for a change from skiing, how about a magical husky-pulled sleigh ride or snowmobile safari through stunning Norwegian snowscapes? Be sure to wrap up warm, as these activities will take them right into the elements. We recommend tapping into those Nordic design values with eye-catching skiwear from Molo, which will keep them highly visible, incredibly comfortable and well insulated for hours of fun.

Where to stay: Dr Holms for a little luxury and lots of on-site amenities or Havsdalsgrenda for self-catered apartments with panoramic views.

Where to eat: The Bowl & Dine for an American diner-style menu and a game of bowling for all the family to enjoy.

What to wear: Technical snowear, thermal layers and snow boots.

If it’s laid-back luxury you’re after, welcome to Aspen, the destination for the junior snow set. Famed for its world-class slopes and iconic Rockies landscapes, you’ll find family-friendly resort areas for every ability: the Aspen Highlands for intermediate-advanced skiers or Buttermilk and Snowmass for beginners. The Base Village has lots of fun wintry activities on its agenda too, and there’s The Aspen Recreation Centre for indoor swimming, climbing walls and lots more.

With an action-packed itinerary comes the ultimate skiwear. Kids will look and feel the part in Canada Goose’s ski collection. Add to that chic base layers from Perfect Moment and a pair of iconic Moon Boots and they’ll be ready in one, two, ski!

Where to stay: Hotel Jerome makes packing simple with ski rentals organised by the hotel’s valet or stay at The Little Nell to enjoy seasonal events like Children’s Storybook Hour.

Where to eat: Start the day with breakfast at Poppycock’s Café and let the kids make their own pasta for dinner at Brunelleschi’s. 

What to wear: Ski coats and jackets , warm knitwear and ski goggles.