A good Swiss ski holiday works for everyone in the group: the keen skier, the nervous beginner, the child who would rather build a snowman and the adult who is mostly here for the fondue. This guide covers what to look for and where each of our featured resorts shines.
Choosing a family-friendly resort
Look for gentle terrain close to the village, a well-run ski school, easy transport from the airport and plenty to do off the slopes. Car-free villages such as Wengen and Zermatt feel safe and calm for children, but luggage and transfers need more planning.
- Davos Klosters: five ski areas, with calm, uncrowded Madrisa and Rinerhorn for learners, plus a large ice rink and sledding runs. It is our top pick for mixed-ability families.
- Jungfrau Ski Region: children's snow areas in Grindelwald, Wengen and Mürren, winter hiking trails and the Jungfraujoch for a non-ski day.
- Zermatt: the Wolli Park children's area at Sunnegga, the Gornergrat cog railway and Matterhorn views. It suits families who ski with confidence.
- St. Moritz: children's areas on Corviglia, ice skating, sleigh rides and easy cross-country trails on the frozen lakes.
- Verbier: strong ski schools and a sports centre with an indoor pool, although the terrain suits teenagers and confident skiers better than first-timers.
Ski school and children's areas
Swiss ski schools, many accredited by Swiss Snowsports, offer group lessons for children and adults, and private lessons for those who need extra attention. Children's areas typically have gentle carpet lifts and playful themed zones.
- Book early. Lessons fill quickly at Christmas, New Year and February school holidays.
- Check age limits. Minimum ages, group sizes and languages vary by school, so confirm them when you book.
- Rent locally. Shops will fit boots and bindings for growing children, and many offer helmets.
- Pack spare layers. Gloves and socks get wet. Bring a second pair for the afternoon.
- Protect from sun. Altitude and snow glare are intense, so apply sunscreen and lip balm and use goggles.
Rest-day and off-snow ideas
- Tobogganing: many villages have prepared sledding runs. Rent a sled locally and check each run's opening times.
- Ice skating: outdoor rinks in places such as Davos and St. Moritz are good fun for all ages.
- Winter walking: prepared trails around Grindelwald First, Zermatt and the Engadin offer easy snowy strolls with big views.
- Mountain railways: the Gornergrat in Zermatt or the Jungfraujoch railway turn a rest day into an adventure. Check weather and tickets before you go.
- Swimming and spa time: hotel pools and public sports centres are ideal for tired legs.
Mountain-hut lunches
A long lunch on a sunny terrace is a highlight of a Swiss ski day. Expect hearty dishes such as rösti, Älplermagronen (Alpine macaroni with potatoes, cheese and onions), soups and the famous cheese dishes below. Children's menus are common. Mountain prices are higher than in the valley, so many families share starters or pack a snack for the morning. Booking a table is wise at popular huts in busy weeks.
Swiss après-ski
Après-ski in Switzerland ranges from a mug of hot chocolate on a sun terrace to late-night live music. Each resort has its own feel:
- Verbier: the most energetic, with terrace bars on the mountain that carry on into the village.
- Zermatt: a mix of cosy bars and live music, rather than all-night clubbing.
- St. Moritz: champagne lounges, fine dining and grand-hotel evenings.
- Davos Klosters: a varied scene, from hut terraces to hotel lounges, with a livelier atmosphere during the Spengler Cup.
- Jungfrau Region: lively in Grindelwald, calmer and cosier in Wengen and Mürren.
What to eat
- Fondue: melted cheese with bread, usually shared from one pot. It is a perfect family dinner.
- Raclette: melted cheese scraped over potatoes, pickles and cured meats.
- Glühwein and hot chocolate: mulled wine for adults and a thick hot chocolate for everyone.
- Local specialities: in Graubünden, look out for Bündner Gerstensuppe (barley soup) and Pizokel. In Valais, try dried meats and local cheeses.
If anyone has food allergies, tell the restaurant when you book, as many Swiss dishes are rich in dairy, gluten and nuts.
Tips for a smooth family trip
- Choose accommodation close to the lifts or ski bus, so tired legs have a short walk home.
- Plan a rest day halfway through a week-long trip.
- Travel by rail where you can. Our transport guide explains luggage services and scenic trains.
- Agree meeting points and a phone plan on the mountain, and make sure children know their hotel name.
- Consider travel insurance with winter-sports cover and Rega membership. See rega.ch.