There is truly no better time to visit a ski resort than during the festive period. Whether you want to spoil yourself and ski to your heart’s content, or spend valuable family time with your loved ones, it makes for a great getaway. The villages are decked out in twinkling lights, there is an abundance of snow and of course, Santa makes a visit to the delight of the little ones, eagerly awaiting his arrival. Is this the most magical time of the year? You bet it is and it’s not only the children who are excited, the adults are pretty hyped up to, although maybe for different reasons.
The lure of the snowy slopes is a massive draw for ski and snowboard lovers and this is the perfect time to visit. Add to the mix, turkey and all the trimmings and you have yourself a wonderful holiday to look forward to. If you opt to stay in a hotel, you don’t need to lift a finger as you are catered for. However, if you like your privacy and prefer a more private gathering (just you and friends or family) why not book a chalet? A catered chalet offers everything a hotel does, only on a more intimate level. The cooking and washing up is all done for you, sounds ideal doesn’t it! The Christmas celebrations are often kicked off on Christmas Eve, with a magnificent dinner at either the hotels or catered chalets and Christmas music fills the cool crisp air to get you in the party mood.
Meribel – France is a traditional ski resort where the properties are built in a charming Savoyard style using wood and stone. In keeping with the landscape, this pretty village is a superb base for visiting the huge Trois Vallees (three valleys) ski area. Meribel Village is at 1400m to the top of Meribel Mottaret at 1800m. Meribels main village is at 1450 and this is the centre of the resort where all of the shops and eateries can be found. At the end of the valley is Mont du Vallon where skiing can take place at 2952m or you have the option of popping to Val Thorens which is another high altitude resort. Santa Clause makes his visit and the children are happy to see Santa arrive to the village on skis.
Val d’Isere – France if you want to experience the full on Christmas yuletide celebrations, this is the ski resort for you. The village is highly decorated and has fantastic nightlife where you can eat, drink and be merry after a full day on the slopes. The snow in Val d’Isere is assured, however, to take every precaution it also has the largest snowmaking system in the Alps. Excellent for all skiing levels including learners, with the added benefit of being joined to Tignes, it offers wonderful off piste skiing. Santa Clause arrives in style by helicopter on Christmas Eve, it’s what you would expect in this classy resort.
Levi – Lapland is the ultimate Christmas ski destination and the kids will fall in love here with just about everything. This is Finland’s major downhill ski resort and the most popular by far. Cross country skiing is superb here too, especially taking in the breathtaking views. There is plenty to do even if there are some non-skiers in your group. Night fall happens early in Lapland as you are inside the Arctic Circle, but don’t let that put you off, as there are lots of magical events you can take part in. Children and adults alike can go husky sledding or take a relaxing reindeer ride. How about taking a snowshoe tour, snowmobile safari or go ice skating, ice karting or ice fishing. On a clear night you can see the Northern Lights which dance in the darkened sky. Santa Clause makes an appearance on his famous sleigh.
Enjoy your Christmas!