Skiing over Christmas - Advice needed.

Hello,

myself my wife and my 3 kids are considering going skiing over the Christmas period.

We are going with another family which has 2 children.

I just wanted to know where is the best country to go, so we are guaranteed snow. We are obviously not that interested in the nightlife aspect, although restaurants and other activities are obviously wanted.

so can anyone give me some advice basically on where we can go over the Christmas break and enjoy a great skiing experience.

thanks for your help.

In France, the xmas just past was really really good, with lots of snow, even at lower levels (800/1000m above sea level plus). But at the other end of the scale, there have been years where temperatures were higher and the rain/snow limit has been as high 1500m at xmas time. So choose the higher ski areas to reduce the risks!

We are in the Chamonix Valley, where the main ski areas are high (most of the skiing is at 1800m-3300m), so skiing at xmas has been generally safe with enough snow. Its true Chamonix has a reputation as an extreme skiing destination and, to a large extent, that's deserved. But that's not the whole story. The valley offers variety, there's simply a huge choice, which means it’s equally a good place for groups and families of mixed ages/levels (check out Les Houches or Le Tour for example).

In case you’re interested, we put quite a bit of info on the ski areas (with piste maps) on our website http://www.chaletinthemountains.com/ski%20areas.htm

I wouldn't recommend Chamonix with children - a fab area but very spread out and not so good for beginners. Many French resorts are high so good for early skiing - and many of the ski schools hold torchlit descents on Xmas eve. LaPlagne is a great area for all abilities - and really good for children as all the runs come back to a central flat area with bars and cafes where the children can sled and bumboard whilst you enjoy a drink watching them. Lots of good chalet companies operate in the various linked resorts - I came here 5 years in a row when my twins were small as it was perfect for them to enjoy as well as us getting some skiing miles under our belt. Recommended child friendly companies companies - Ski Beat and Silver Ski. Don't use the
ESF for lessons use the private ski school called Oxygene in Plagne Centre - no dearer and much friendlier and more flexible. The resort is deserted til Boxing Day as the French stay at home for Xmas