Here's why Les 2 Alpes is one of the French Alps' best family holiday destinations
When it comes to choosing a ski resort for a family, there can be a lot to consider. From balancing the skiing needs of different ages and abilities to ensuring there are plenty of off-the-slope activities to keep everyone entertained.
Here at Peak Retreats, we’re no strangers to organising the perfect family ski holiday to the French Alps. With many parents in our team, we naturally know the best places to take the family, whether that includes bringing the little ones or your older kids.
One resort that has really come on to our radar the last few years as a first-choice for families is Les 2 Alpes in the Isère area of the French Alps.
What makes Les 2 Alpes ideal for a family ski holiday?
Les 2 Alpes has been awarded the ‘Famille Plus’ label. This sets it apart as one of a number of resorts in France who go above and beyond to ensure your family ski holiday is a success.
Here are some of our favourite family-friendly aspects of Les 2 Alpes:
Above-average sunshine conditions
This makes for milder temperatures which is great for young children. But in Les 2 Alpes, more sun doesn’t result in less snow, you’ll enjoy the best of both with this resort’s amazing snow record, allowing you and your family to ski on 200km of snow-sure pistes.
Free button lifts
At the foot of the mountain there are a few free button lifts which are great for young children or first time skiers.
Insider tip: the button lifts are right next to a couple of bars so you can relax while the kids enjoy the beginner slopes.
The resort is relatively flat
Compared to some ski villages, Les 2 Alpes is pretty flat so it makes it easy to walk around, especially in ski boots!
There really is skiing for all ages and abilities
When skiing in a party of mixed ages and abilities, it can sometimes feel tricky to find a resort that genuinely ticks everyone’s boxes. This is not an issue for those heading to Les 2 Alpes.
There are runs for all levels, with 60% of pistes for beginners and intermediates and 40% for expert skiers. Beginners with a few days skiing under their belt may even be able to ski from the top of the glacier down to resort level on greens and easy blues.
It’s easy to meet up
Often when on a family ski holiday, different members of the party want to ski different pistes and at different speeds. Sometimes that means going your separate ways and then meeting up again.
Les 2 Alpes makes this really easy as it’s all really well sign posted and you usually end up in the same valley.
There are plenty of family friendly bars and restaurants
Les 2 Alpes is a really friendly ski resort, not least in its fantastic range of bars and restaurants where children are welcomed and accommodated. Housed in a traditional log style chalet, The Polar Bear pub in the centre of Les 2 Alpes is a hit with all members of the family.
Activities galore
This is where Les 2 Alpes really comes into its own. There truly is something for every member of the family. From the indoor heated swimming pool to the outdoor ice rink, dedicated sledging areas to organised entertainment, Les 2 Alpes has plenty to do off the slopes too.
With so many activities to choose from, we thought we’d give you the run down on the best activities for tots, kids and teenagers/big kids (aka adults).
Family Activities in Les 2 Alpes
Tots
Baby snow with the ESF
The baby snow is a cool device that comprises a snowboard that has a toddler saddle and handlebars and then an additional handle for an adult to hold onto while they ski behind.
This unique device was created so parents can enjoy skiing with their one to four year olds.
Tot Sledging
Les 2 Alpes is home to not just one but three sledging runs for children, one of which are dedicated to those aged 2 to 6 years.
Accessible for free, these runs are at the foot of the slopes and are surrounded with safety nets and foam padding to keep your child safe whilst enjoying this activity.
Kids
‘Kids park’ Freestyle Area
A dedicated freestyle area for children under 10 years. With banked turns and jumps, this is an ideal way for younger children to practice their skills.
Sleigh Rides
Enjoy an hour long ride on a horse-drawn sleigh. Including a short coffee or hot chocolate break, this is a way to discover the beauty of the resort’s snow-covered surroundings whilst accompanied by a guide and the sound of a horse’s hooves. Available every day except for Saturdays until the end of March, under 2s can go free!
Teenagers and ‘big kids’ (adults)
Big Air Bag Park
Get ready for some serious air time at the Big Air Bag Park. Enjoy this thrilling tobogganing experience either alone or by launching off the slope with a friend or family member in a single or double ring donut shaped toboggan.
After taking to the air, enjoy the rush of soaring through the sky before crashing into a huge inflatable mattress.
Paragliding
With a choice of 3 different paragliding schools, Les 2 Alpes is home to plenty of opportunities for you to go paragliding. In winter, you can take off on skis with a qualified instructor and experience the snow coated mountains from above! Adults can enjoy paragliding all the way until the evening.
From the varied ski area suited for those of all levels and an excellent mixture of sunshine and snow quality, to activities both on and off the slopes that people of all ages can enjoy, Les 2 Alpes is certain to meet everyone's needs and keep you and the rest of your family happy on your next ski holiday.
