Snow holidays are one of the most exciting experiences for families, combining fun, natural beauty, and fun activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking to ski, enjoy the stunning scenery, or try delicious local foods, these destinations are perfect for a best snow vacations for families. In this article, we’ll show you 16 great destinations to spend a winter vacation in the snow with the family.
There are many destinations around the world that offer family-friendly snow vacations, combining charming nature with activities that suit all family members. Whether you prefer skiing or enjoying other winter activities, you’ll find in these destinations the diversity and beauty that meets all your desires. We’ll take you on a tour of some of the best family snow destinations around the world.
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Zermatt – Switzerland:
Zermatt is a charming destination located in the heart of the Alps, and is characterized by its stunning views of the Matterhorn. Families can enjoy traditional Swiss dishes such as fondue and raclette, and wander the streets of the attractive mountain village.
Don’t miss the Matterhorn Museum to discover the history of the area. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the city is car-free, making it completely safe for families.
You can get around by electric taxis or horse-drawn carriages, while the Swiss trains connect Zermatt to the surrounding areas with ease.
Activities:
- Skiing.
- Ski lessons for children.
- Snowshoeing.
- Gornhagrat Railway Tour.
- Ice Skating.
- Ice Hiking.
Hotels:
- Hotel Alpenhof.
- Zermatt Resort.
- Hotel Matterhorn Inn.
Aspen – USA:
Aspen is famous for its world-class ski resorts, but it also offers many other family-friendly activities. You can enjoy a hearty meal at one of the cozy restaurants serving bison burgers and hot chocolate.
The city is home to many cultural attractions, such as the Aspen Art Museum. The locals are friendly, and the city offers excellent transportation services, ensuring a comfortable and easy experience for families.
Activities:
- Skiing and snowboarding.
- Sleigh rides.
- Snowmobile tours.
- Visit the Aspen Art Museum.
- Ice skating.
- Hiking in the Maroon Bells.
Hotels:
- Hotel Gant.
- Limelight Hotel.
- Aspen Meadows Resort.
Banff – Canada:
Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers stunning winter scenery and family-friendly activities. Enjoy Canadian cuisine like poutine and maple syrup fudge.
Don’t miss the Banff Hot Springs and Lake Louise for great ice skating. The people are very friendly, and local buses provide convenient and easy transportation to help families explore the area.
Activities:
- Skiing on Lake Louise.
- Cable Car Rides.
- Snowshoeing.
- Banff Hot Springs.
- Wildlife Tours.
- Ice Skating.
Hotels:
- Fairmont Banff Springs.
- Moss Hotel.
- Fox Hotel.
Chamonix – France:
Located at the foot of Mont Blanc, Chamonix offers stunning mountain views and a great experience for families. After a day of activities, enjoy traditional French dishes like raclette and tartiflette.
Take the Montenfert Railway to the Mer de Glace Glacier. The locals are known for their hospitality, and the public bus system makes it easy to get around.
Activities:
- Mont Blanc cable car ride.
- Ice climbing.
- Paragliding.
- Visit the Alpine Museum.
Hotels:
- Hotel Heliopic.
- Les Aiglons Resort.
- La Folie Douce Hotel.
Whistler – Canada:
Whistler is one of the world’s top ski resorts, and is an ideal destination for families. The town is filled with great restaurants serving everything from Canadian maple pancakes to fine dining.
Take a ride on the Peak to Peak cable car for stunning views. The residents are laid-back and friendly, and Whistler’s free shuttle buses make it easy to get around the resort.
Activities:
- Skiing and snowboarding.
- Zipline.
- Dog sledding.
- Peak to Peak cable car rides.
- Snowmobile tours.
- Ice skating.
Hotels:
- Pan Pacific Hotel.
- The Westin Resort.
- Fairmont Chateau Whistler.
Äre – Sweden:
Äre is Sweden’s best ski resort, combining the fun of winter sports with the charm of Scandinavian culture. Enjoy warm Swedish dishes such as meatballs with raspberry jam.
Don’t miss the Ice Village or the Old Church in äre. The people are very friendly, and the public transport system of buses and trains provides easy access to all places.
Activities:
- Skiing & Snowboarding.
- Ice Fishing.
- Visiting the Ice Hotel.
- Dog Sledding.
- Northern Lights Tours.
- Snowshoeing.
Hotels:
- Holiday Club Hotel.
- Copperhill Hotel.
- Äri Granin Hotel.
Cortina d’Ampezzo – Italy:
Located in the heart of the Dolomites, Cortina is a wonderful Italian destination that combines elegance and tradition. Enjoy Italian dishes such as pizza and risotto after a day of skiing.
Be sure to visit the historic town center or take the cable car to Rifugio Lagazzo for great views. The locals are friendly, and local buses provide easy access to the surrounding areas.
Activities:
- Skiing & Snowboarding.
- Snowshoeing.
- Ice Climbing.
- Skating.
- Visiting the Ice Rink.
- Cable Car Ride.
Hotels:
- Hotel Cristallo.
- Hotel Alaska.
- Grand Hotel Savoia.
Stowe – United States:
Located in the heart of Vermont, Stowe is a family-friendly destination with its quaint country atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional American meal like maple-glazed ham or apple pie at local restaurants. Take a drive down Smugglers Notch or visit the Vermont Ski Museum. The locals are friendly, and buses run frequently to ensure families get around easily.
Activities:
- Visit the Vermont Ski Museum.
- Ride the Cable Car.
Hotels:
- Stowe Mountain Lodge.
- Topnotch Resort Hotel.
- Idle Time Inn.
Hakone – Japan:
Hakone is a unique Japanese destination that offers both a relaxing and skiing experience. After a day of skiing, enjoy fresh Japanese sushi or try delicious yakitori. The Owakudani Valley is a great place to visit to explore nature and hot springs.
The locals are friendly and helpful, and the city has a great public transportation system that includes buses and trains, making it easy for families to get around.
Activities:
- Skiing and snowboarding.
- Visiting the Owakudani Valley.
- Enjoying the hot springs (onsen).
- Hakone cable car tours.
- Hiking.
- Visiting the open-air art museum.
Hotels:
- Hakone Koga Hotel.
- Yamakawa Hotel.
- Hakone Gora Ryomete Hotel.
Grindelwald – Switzerland:
Grindelwald is one of the best snow vacations for familles, thanks to its stunning views of the Eiger and its variety of activities. Families can enjoy Swiss rösti or grilled sausages after a day of exploring the area.
The alpine village is an ideal place for hiking and exploring nature. The people are very friendly, and the mountain trains and buses provide convenient transportation for families to get around the area easily.
Activities:
- Skiing and snowboarding.
- Snowshoeing.
- Hiking.
- First cable car ride.
- Dog sledding tours.
- Shopping in the village.
Hotels:
- Belvedere Hotel Grindelwald.
- Eiger Hotel.
- Crosspont Hotel.
Stupa – Austria:
Stupa is one of Austria’s most attractive winter destinations, offering many fun family activities. You can taste Austrian dishes such as stroganoff and brazil in local restaurants.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the ice caves and explore the stunning scenery of the surrounding mountains. The locals are friendly, and buses run regularly between the resort and the town to make getting around easy.
Activities:
- Ice skating.
- Visiting ice caves.
- Dog sledding.
- Snowshoeing.
- Skiing.
- Enjoying spa treatments at hotels.
Hotels:
- Hotel Outstuben.
- Hotel Wolfgang.
- Hotel Gems & Spa.
Megève – France:
Megève is one of the most beautiful French destinations that combines luxury with a family atmosphere. You can enjoy local foods such as ratatouille and French baguettes.
Visiting the medieval town center is a top activity for families. The locals are very hospitable, and taxi and local bus services provide easy access between the different areas.
Activities:
- Skiing and snowboarding.
- Visiting the old town.
- Horse-drawn sleigh rides.
- Hiking in the mountains.
- Cable car rides.
- Shopping in luxury boutiques.
Hotels:
- Hotel Albagie.
- Four Seasons Hotel Megève.
- Hotel Le Manoir du Capri.
Vall de Boi – Spain:
Located in the Spanish Pyrenees, Valle de Boi offers the perfect winter experience for families. Enjoy Spanish dishes such as paella and churros after a day of skiing or hiking. Don’t miss the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Romanesque churches.
The locals are very friendly, and public buses make it easy to get around the area.
Activities:
- Skiing and snowboarding.
- Hiking in the Pyrenees.
- Visiting Romanesque churches.
- Horse-drawn sleigh rides.
- Ice skating.
- Cable car rides.
Hotels:
- Roca Forte Hotel.
- Erur Hotel.
- Capri Hotel.
Bansko – Bulgaria:
Bansko is a great Eastern European destination that offers budget-friendly and fun options for families. After a day of exploring the picturesque old town, enjoy Bulgarian dishes such as banista and shopska salad. The Pirin Mountains offer great skiing opportunities, and you can also visit the nearby thermal baths for relaxation.
The locals are very friendly, and buses connect visitors between the mountain lifts and the main attractions, making it easy for families to get around.
Activities:
- Skiing and snowboarding.
- Snowshoeing.
- Thermal baths.
- Horse-drawn sleigh rides.
- Historical tours of the Old Town.
Hotels:
- Kempinski Hotel.
- Premier Hotel.
- Lucky Hotel Bansko.
Obertauern – Austria:
Obertauern is one of Austria’s hidden gems, offering the perfect winter experience for families looking for fun. After a day of skiing, sample Austrian dishes such as schnitzel and Kaiserschmarrn.
Enjoy panoramic views from the top of the Sickerhaus and experience the beauty of the Alps. The locals are friendly, and buses and cable cars make it easy to get around the resort.
Activities:
- Skiing and snowboarding.
- Ice skating.
- Snowshoeing.
- Horse-drawn sleigh rides.
- Winter hiking.
- Night skiing.
Hotels:
- Rommehoff Hotel.
- Schneider Hotel.
- Alpenhotel Berner.
Queenstown – New Zealand:
Queenstown transforms into a snowy paradise during the winter, offering a variety of activities for the whole family. After a day of activities, enjoy local dishes such as fresh New Zealand lamb or fish and chips.
The Remarkables Mountains offer amazing skiing opportunities, while the locals are friendly and welcoming. The local bus system provides a convenient and easy way to get around Queenstown.
Activities:
- Skiing & Snowboarding.
- Snowshoeing.
- Gondola Rides.
- Snowboarding.
- Jet Boat Tours.
- Mountain Helicopter Tours.
Hotels:
- The Rees Hotel.
- Queenstown Park Hotel.
- Heritage Queenstown Hotel.
When you’re planning your best snow vacations for familles, these 16 destinations offer the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. From the snow-covered slopes of Japan to the glamorous resorts of Europe, each destination offers unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
Whether you’re looking for world-class skiing, cozy village atmosphere, or fun winter activities, these destinations have it all.
