Family resorts come in all shapes and sizes; from simple, friendly slopes where sprogs can make their very first turns, through to sprawling mega resorts that have bases covered for kids of all ages. Here are Chris Taine’s picks for the best in the Austrian Tirol
Heading out to the snow with a toddler in tow is an opportunity to look at familiar resorts with fresh eyes – and now, with very different considerations. Not long ago, a parking lot at the base of a lift was enough. Now, there’s a rather more complicated appraisal process; tobogganing slopes, winter hiking paths, family-friendly digs (i.e. with kitchen facilities), cosy huts and cafés in which to warm up, and of course somewhere for Mum and Dad to execute a seamless midday changeover.
While my own offspring are still more into sliding on a sled than strapping on skis, that doesn’t mean I haven’t been evaluating where we’ll be heading in one, three, or ten years’ time. What I’ve found is that there’s no standard recipe for what makes a good family resorts; the following – though all excellent – each have their own particular strengths and charms.