Family ski holidays - Luxury Ski News Archive

1) Husky Dog Sleigh Ride

Get a taste of Alaska on a husky powered sledge whilst taking in the breath-taking mountain scenery. This activity takes place daily with Paradisled. The starting point is between Arcs 1600 and 1950 and can be accessed by free shuttle from Arc 1950. Early booking is essential.

2) Sledging

Luge 2000 is a fun and exhilarating experience as you toboggan down a 3-km track with challenging bends and twists along the way. Sledges and helmets are provided on site. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, minimum height restriction 125 cm. €12 per run.

3) Ice Skating

There is an ice rink open daily between 18:00 and 20:00 in the upper part of Arc 2000. On Monday and Thursday evenings, special entertainment is organised on the ice rink (weather dependent) and challenges are set for prizes to be won!

4) Snowmobiling

Once the ski runs have closed for the day, try your hand at driving these two-seater skidoos. With the rear wheel replaced by a caterpillar track for momentum and the front wheel swapped for a pair of skis for steering, these snowmobiles are incredibly quick. After some expert instruction, you will soon be out on an open country trail enjoying the buzz and adrenaline rush of being in control of a skidoo. Available in Arc 1800 or 2000.

5) Ski Joering

A fun activity for those who love skiing and horses! Ski joering is the original drag-lift. Before Pomas, chairlifts and cable cars were installed in the mountains, the only tow to be found was either behind dogs or horses. Although it’s easy to move around the mountain using ski lifts these days, if you fancy a trek through the woods away from the queues and ski schools, then ski joering might be for you. Available on selected dates.

6) Igloo Village

Visit an extraordinary 400m2 igloo village complete with a hotel, bar, ice grotto with impressive ice sculptures, restaurant and dance floor. Made entirely of ice, the hotel can be accessed on skis or snowshoes from Arc 1950. Entry from 4€ for children and 5€ for adults (free for children under 6). Keep your ski gear on, as the igloo is kept at 0°! Open every day of the winter season from 10am to 5pm. Entry to the magical ice grotto with sculptures costs €2 (no reservation needed). Accessible to skiers via the Arcabulle chairlift and walkers via a 20-minute walk from Arc 2000.

7) Swimming and Wellness Area

Similarly to our own pool and spa complex within the Bear Lodge, the majority of residences in Arc 1950 have wellness areas with indoor and/or outdoor hot tubs, pools and saunas. In the Deep Nature Spar, you will also find a 1000m2 complex complete with relaxation pool, themed ice and sauna caves and treatment rooms, some of which enjoy magnificent views of Mont Blanc. Afternoon child spa access from €25 (age 4-15).

8) Snakegliss

If you are looking for a fun and exciting après-ski activity, then you have to give the Snakegliss a try! Several sledges are linked together one behind the other to create a sliding snake steered by an instructor at the front with 6-10 people per ‘snake’. Minimum age 10. Helmets and ski gloves are compulsory and ski boots are not allowed. It takes place late afternoon from the ice rink in Arc 2000.

9) Snowshoeing

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a newcomer to winter sports, snowshoeing is a low-impact yet highly rewarding way to explore the mountains and immerse yourself in nature. With nothing but the sound of a marmot scurrying in the undergrowth and maybe a mountain spring trickling by, you will feel like you’re in another world. Ask for the “Walking, Cross-country skiing and Snowshoeing map” at the Tourist Office or ask your chalet host for more details or sign up for a guided trek with professional guides/instructors. They will take you to their favourite spots, away from the crowds, to see the best Alpine scenery and wildlife. Snowshoes and walking poles can be hired.

10) Speedriding

Want to try something new? Tired of having your feet firmly on the ground? Discover a new type of sport which combines the likes of paragliding and kite surfing to make the increasingly popular sport of Speedriding!

Bonus 11) Helicopter Ride

For a truly amazing and thrilling panoramic bird’s eye view of the mountains, choose a sightseeing scenic helicopter tourist flight. Hover over the slopes or tour around the resorts by helicopter, marvelling at the wonderful scenery beneath you.

Are you ready for an activity-filled trip to the Alps with plenty of relaxation time too?

We must add, there are numerous choices of companies providing these activities and many more than the 10 listed here, so please speak to our Concierge Team once in resort for further details.

With all extreme sporting activities please ensure you check your own insurance policy to see if you are covered to take part.

If you haven’t already selected your holiday you must check out our Arc 1950 hotel and chalets with pool complex, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi, gym, cinema & kids’ playroom.

Equipment

It probably goes without saying, but you should always use the right equipment for skiing. Boots should be fitted correctly, and your ski bindings should be adjusted by a professional. Furthermore, the type of ski you choose should suit your level of ability and experience, as well as the type of snow you’re likely to be encountering. If borrowing equipment from a friend rather than buying or renting your own, you should have it thoroughly checked and fitted in a shop all the same, just in case.

Helmets
You can never be 100% safe when skiing of course, but wearing a helmet will greatly reduce your risk of suffering a serious head injury. Strange as it might seem, it was not until recently that ski helmets became ubiquitous. In fact, just 10 years ago, probably no more than half the skiers you’d have seen would have had any more head protection than a woolly hat. But improved designs, reduced prices, and several high profile, awareness-raising tragedies such as those involving Natasha Richardson and Michael Schumacher mean that it is now quite rare to see anyone on the slopes without a helmet.

Body Armour
Modern ski body armour isn’t just designed to protect your back and torso - it’s also lightweight, and unobtrusive enough to hide beneath your jacket. Basic body armour is available for under £100 and is worth the investment if you’re prone to wiping out at speed, you enjoy hanging out in the snowpark or simply want to get the maximum protection for yourself and your family.

Avalanche kit
Once your family has learned to ski at an advanced level, you may like to go off-piste occasionally, in which case it’s always best to be prepared for any eventuality. That means being fully aware of current and future weather conditions, and always booking a ski instructor or guide if you'd like to ski off-piste. They will provide you with the essential avalanche kit; transceiver, collapsible shovel and probe and take you to your favourite backcountry spots away from the crowds.

Behaviour

Ultimately, there is only so much that having the correct ski safety equipment can do. More than anything else, it’s sensible behaviour on the slopes that will protect you.

Always dress for the weather
On the mountain, weather conditions can change very rapidly, and it’s not uncommon for even the most experienced of skiers to be caught out. Packing for a ski holiday can be an artform but you should be looking to layer clothing, with an insulating mid-layer that can be removed and put in a backpack if necessary. Waterproof gloves are essential, and it’s sensible to bring both goggles and sunglasses so that you can cope with both sunny and snowy conditions.

Ski sober
Remember that drinking alcohol at high altitudes can lower the amount of oxygen getting to the brain, which is why so many air-rage incidents are blamed on in-flight drinking. Alcohol can lead to overconfidence, getting sloppy with technique and accidents, so if you’re skiing with your kids, it’s doubly important to abstain. Instead of beer or wine at lunch, drink water or soft drinks and save the alcohol for the apres-ski. It’s also a good idea to carry reusable water bottles in backpacks so that you can all stay well hydrated throughout the day.

Stretch
One way to help your family to avoid aches and strains while skiing, and reduce the risk of more serious injuries, is to get everyone performing some light stretching exercises before and after. It’s also a good idea to take regular rest breaks while skiing, pausing mid-run and for at least an hour at lunch, to catch your breath and give your legs a rest.

Respect others, and the mountain

Remember the basic rules of ski etiquette at all times, especially in high risk such as lift queues, or when one piste joins another. There are several golden rules in skiing - remember that the skier or snowboarder below you ALWAYS has priority, control your speed, and keep a safe distance from others, especially beginners in lessons and groups of children.

Lift etiquette
In popular resorts, some lifts will have long, tightly packed queues waiting for them. When approaching a lift queue, it’s vital to reduce your speed well in advance of reaching the end of the line or you could cause a major accident. Standard ski safety tips for lifts include making sure your poles are in one hand and your skis straight as you sit down, removing backpacks, and not raising the safety bar until just before you get off.

Flat light and blizzards

We all hope for blue skies and sunshine on our ski holidays (with a nice dusting of powder during the night) but sometimes, we must cope with flat light or skiing in a blizzard. Flat light refers to overcast weather conditions where the light on the snow becomes diffuse, creating minimal shadows and contrasts. This can make it challenging for skiers to distinguish changes in terrain and navigate slopes safely. Skiers often find it helpful to use low-light or flat-light lenses on their goggles to improve visibility in such conditions.

If the weather changes whilst you’re out for the day, head for tree-lined areas where possible (La Daille in Val d’Isère, Les Boisses and Brévières in Tignes, the Lil Stash and down into Les Lindarets in Avoriaz, Arc 1600 and Villaroger in Les Arcs). Put your goggles on and keep the piste markers (lollipops) on your right-hand side. (In France, the pole on the right-hand side of the piste has an orange top, helping you ensure you stay on track and don’t venture off-piste) and take your time!

Alternatively, why not head back to your chalet for a relaxing soak in the hot tub or a warm up in the sauna before everyone else gets back?

Know your limits

Being aware of your own abilities and not pushing yourself too far is something else that ought to come up early with instruction. Every year, many accidents are caused by skiers who try to tackle runs that are beyond their capability and end up in trouble. Pistes are clearly marked to denote the level of difficulty that can be expected, and maps are freely available too. If you do find yourself in a situation that you’re not confident that you can handle, slowly make your way to the nearest lift station.

Much of the above advice might seem obvious, but you would be surprised how often it is neglected. Just as many drivers will forget the basics of road safety over time, it’s common for experienced skiers to make common errors too. Parents have a responsibility when taking their children on family ski holidays to follow best practise at all times, as children will learn by example. And just as taking the odd lesson now and again can help you sharpen your technique, it can also refresh the memory on ski safety too.

End the day on a high

It’s not uncommon to have tired aching legs during a ski holiday, especially if you haven’t managed to do as much pre-season fitness training as you’d hoped. If you’re feeling tired, there’s no shame in taking the ski lift back down into the village and avoiding the often crowded and icy home run at the end of the day. If there isn’t an option to download, then head back down to the chalet earlier in the afternoon before the crowds and make the most of the delicious afternoon tea that will be waiting for you...

Essential clothing

Base Layer
It’s commonly recommended to use three layers of clothing for skiing. The base layer serves to keep you dry and warm, wicking off moisture, as skiing is an energetic activity that causes sweating which can be unpleasant. Many people opt for thermal clothing for this layer, but warmth is secondary to a layer that stays dry and comfortable over the course of the day.

Mid Layer
The mid layer should be for insulation purposes, and is most necessary when you’re expecting very cold conditions. If you’re heading to resort later in the season, such as around Easter, then you might be tempted to skip this layer, but it’s worth putting it on your ski clothing list anyway just in case. It doesn’t need to be especially thick - a lightweight fleece will do the job perfectly.

Outer Layer
Your outer layer is what offers protection from the elements, so it should be both waterproof and windproof, as well as durable. It is composed of the ski jacket (which often comes with a zip-pocket on the left sleeve where you can conveniently keep your lift pass), and your ski pants, otherwise known as salopettes. What to wear under ski pants? If you feel it’s necessary, a thin tracksuit or thermal leggings will do nicely. In terms of material, think Gore-Tex or similar. Note that although outer layers can often be purchased for a very reasonable price, if you don’t feel ready to make that kind of investment yet, they can also be hired from many suppliers.

Goggles / Sunglasses
It’s best to bring both goggles and sunglasses. The latter are suitable for when the weather is good and the white of the snow can be almost blindingly brilliant, while goggles are necessary for snowy or windy conditions. Bear in mind that goggles can steam up, obscuring visibility, so a pack of wipes can come in handy too. Bringing both along while you ski allows you flexibility. Most ski helmets have a strap to keep goggles attached. Spending a little more for extra UV protection and anti-fogging is a good idea.

Helmet
20 years ago it was rare to see anyone skiing with a helmet. Today, it’s rare to see someone skiing without one. A helmet offers you an extra piece of protection against collisions and falls on surfaces that are often a lot harder than they might look. Modern ski helmets are stylish, comfortable and lightweight. While they can be rented alongside skis, poles and boots if required, if you want to invest in your own then expect to pay upwards of £50 for a high-quality ski helmet. Keep in mind that if your helmet takes a serious knock, but appears undamaged, it may still have an invisible crack that can render it useless in future.

Ski Socks
Choosing the right type of ski socks is an area where many people get it wrong when deciding what to wear when skiing. You might think you want thick socks such as for hiking, but actually ski boots are usually well-insulated themselves, so thinner, calf-length socks are more appropriate. Again look for a breathable fabric, and something odour-free, especially if you plan on bringing just a couple of pairs to last you a week. Thin socks can easily be washed and left to dry on a radiator overnight.

Hat
You’ll want a warm, woolly hat to wear around resort when not skiing. Ear-flaps and comedy-stylings are optional.

Gloves
Ski gloves need to be waterproof above all else. That’s vital especially if you’re a beginner, and can be expected to fall over a lot, as wearing wet gloves all day long is a very unpleasant situation. Mittens suit very cold weather, or you can also get removable linings.

Optional extras

The above covers how to dress for skiing, but there are optional extras that can also be of use. These include:

Neck warmer
This might be a specific garment made of a warm, breathable fabric, or simply a scarf or balaclava. It covers the gap between your jacket and helmet and will stave off chilly winds - particularly appreciated on high lifts.

Back protector
You don’t see many people wearing this body armour, but if you’re a little accident-prone, paranoid about major wipeouts, or enjoy pulling tricks in the snowpark, then you might consider it a worthwhile investment. It can prevent spinal injury, and is usually both lightweight and unobtrusive under a jacket.

Backpack
If you’re spending a whole day on the piste then taking a backpack with you removes the need to stuff the pockets of your ski jacket and salopettes. You can carry around all the sunscreen,chapstick, extra layers, sunglasses, water and snacks you need, as well as your phone and a spare map in just a small waterproof pack. Do remember that it’s good practise to remove a backpack before boarding a chairlift, and keeping it on your lap.

One final thing to note about skiing clothes is that, if you’re borrowing kit from friends and family, always try it on a few days before departure, as if it’s not right, you’ll struggle to find bargain replacements when in resort.

Tempted?

If you've not yet booked your next ski holiday, we're sure to have something to suit your party. 

Entertaining this Jubilee weekend?

In our book a Jubilee celebration cake should be table leg groaningly big. It should have at least one candle, possibly a sparkler and icing as thick as the snow on the roof of your chalet. 

Four layers – two vanilla, two raspberry – sandwiched with a decadent mascarpone raspberry icing. Phwoar. When you cut into it a magical Battenburg-esque layering system ensures everyone gets a double flavour whammy in every iced slice. 

The recipe:

Make two sponges to your favourite recipe in 8-inch tins. Flavour one with vanilla, and one with a good amount of pink food colouring and raspberries (frozen will do). Once cool, slice in half horizontally. Cut a small circle of cake from each middle (ramekin size) and then another circle (cereal bowl size). Separate the circles and rebuild so you have two halves of cake with vanilla outer circles, pink inner wheels and a vanilla centre and two that have pink outer circles, vanilla inner wheels and a pink centre.

Raspberry & Mascarpone Icing

- 150g raspberries
- 2 tbsp caster sugar
- 250g Mascarpone
- 300ml Double Cream

Beat the raspberries, caster sugar and Mascarpone together well before adding the cream. Using an electric beater whisk until stiff and mousse like. Resist licking the spoon until after you’ve iced your cooled cake.

Finish with a smooth topping of icing and sprinkle with dehydrated raspberry pieces, fresh raspberries, Malteasers, white chocolate shavings, or anything else you fancy and throw on a candle with a flourish! Happy Jubilee Celebrations to you! 

If this tasty pud has whet your appetite for afternoon tea and catered chalets, browse live availability now. Our office will be closed over the Jubilee bank holiday but you can book online 24-7, and there's a Jubilee special offer to be snapped up too!

Whilst our menu is planned, it is not set in stone and we will always do our best to accommodate preferences and requests. All we ask is that you make any requests as early as possible.

Things you might not know about our catering…

SWITCH IT UP - For groups taking sole occupancy of a chalet we have a switch menu with a further selection of 10 dishes for you to choose from, to select your bespoke menu for the week.

TWO MENUS - We have a 2^nd week menu so that our returning Clients have different dishes if they holiday with us twice in one season

DIETARY REQUESTS, NO PROBLEM - We have a detailed cookery book so our hosts are able to adapt all our menus for specific dietary requests such as vegan, dairy free, lactose free, gluten free, low cholesterol and vegetarian.

WELL PREPARED - We provide the menu to all our hosts several weeks before the start of the season so they can practice cooking the dishes on their friends and family. All hosts will also cook all meals on the menu during their extensive training programme. Week one guests will not be guinea pigs!

RED OR WHITE? We serve a choice of red or white wine with dinner in all our properties, but we also have an upgrade wine list should you fancy something a little bit extra special.

Handy hints Ben shares with our chalet hosts;

Sprinkle of Sugar

Adding a small sprinkling of sugar to tomatoes helps to bring out the flavour of the fruit.

Just keep whisking!

When whisking egg whites never stop whisking half way through to do something else as the whites will begin to separate and will ruin the end result.

Herbs

When chopping herbs use the stalks of the soft ones, there’s so much flavour in them. Stalks from herbs like tarragon, rosemary and thyme can’t be used.

Nut to worry

When grinding nuts make sure they are cold otherwise the oil will come out of them and make them heavy and greasy.

Of course, we're going to say our menus and food are delicious, but if you don't believe us, read some of the comments from guests who skied with us last season.

Loading, please wait…

View all reviews