If you prefer the idea of a cosy chalet in the middle of silent, snowy nature to staying in a busy resort, and you're prepared to drive a little to hit the slopes in the morning, consider staying in self-catering accommodation at a campsite, to take a ski holiday on a much lower budget.
We have a handful of open-air resorts in the mountains which remain open year-round. They could be just the ticket for a winter holiday which combines skiing, snowboarding, sledging, hiking, visiting winter markets and lots of other magical family activities in the snow.
It's a perfect plan for fans of winter sports, or those who want to clear and reset their minds for the new year with the help of fresh, Alpine air and inspiring views. It's also a great opportunity for some family bonding. Snowsports are something that kids of all ages and parents (even grandparents) can enjoy together, despite different skill levels. Taking lessons in the morning and skiing together in the afternoon is the ideal formula for everyone to be independent on holiday, and enjoy meeting up again all the more.
So this holiday, consider spending your days creating memories with your loved ones on the slopes, before enjoyable evenings reminiscing about the day around a traditional cheese fondue or raclette. Take your family on a holiday they won’t forget and make winter something to look forward to.
Experience the togetherness of a camping holiday with loved ones and create unforgettable memories.
Escape to the sea, mountains or countryside....Have a break and breathe again!
A splash in the pool with the kids. A sunset on the beach. Rediscover the fun and beauty in the simple things in life.
Apart from the obvious skiing and snowboarding, there are loads of activities on offer at campsites near mountain resorts in winter. Here are a few to get you in the mood:
As winter resorts are often also summer resorts with lots of mountain activities such as hiking and biking, there are generally lots of lovely trails in them, winding through forests and offering stunning mountain views. For example, Parc National des Ecrins in the French Alps is a beautiful day out for the whole family. You can generally hire “raquettes” or snow shoes at any French mountain resort, to strap onto your hiking boots to make trekking through the snow a lot easier. Remember to bring lots of water, snacks, spare gloves in case little gloves get lost or wet from an impromptu snowball fight, and the usual emergency equipment.
Choose between a thrilling sleigh slide surrounded by laughing kids, or a quiet descent making your own tracks on soft, silent new snow. You can sledge at dedicated tobogganing areas within ski resorts, or if you have taken your own toboggans with you, simply find an inviting hill near your winter campsite.
It’s proven that forest bathing has many benefits, both for your morale and your health. Ramble in the woods at pause to appreciate the calm that surrounds you. Mountain holidays are perfect for this.
Even if your campsite doesn’t have a heated pool or jacuzzi, many ski resorts do. So identify the one nearest where you are staying for an afternoon in the water!
You don’t need to go to Canada or Lapland to make this dream come true, dog sledding can also be done in the French mountains. With its breathtaking scenery, the Jura is particularly suited to this activity.
There is something magical about winter markets. And the great thing about self-catering accommodation is that you can buy lots of local produce and enjoy it at home in the evening. Let yourself be tempted by charcuterie, cheese and Savoie wine and take a basket full of local specialities home to the chalet.
While it is a great money-saving measure to eat in most evenings, at lunch time or on the occasional evening, you must go to a local restaurant and enjoy mountain specialties like fondue, raclette and tartiflette. Also try cassoulet and duck confit, if you are in the Midi-Pyrenées region. And ask for other local recommendations, wherever you are!
Fresh, brisk air that makes your lungs feel brand new again; shared adventure; beautiful, calming scenery – the advantages of a camping holiday are numerous!
One thing’s for sure, you’ll make the most of the outdoors if you holiday at an open-air resort or campsite. Between skiing, snowboarding or tobogganing and walks, you’ll get plenty of fresh air, with all its beneficial properties. Embrace the great outdoors and return home refreshed and ready to re-engage with the world of work.
With family or friends, camping in the ski area will leave you with lasting memories. Miles from your normal environment and distractions, this sort of trip is an excellent opportunity to (re)discover the fun side of yourself and build relationships in a totally unique context.
Staying at a ski campsite generally allows you to reduce your holiday budget and to secure accommodation when there is often very little available near ski resorts.
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