The Alps are the perfect destination for your mountain holiday with children, with a wide range of thrilling sporting and cultural activities, delicious Savoyard delights, stunning landscapes, and entertainment suitable for all ages at your fingertips.
In this post, we provide expert guidance on how to enjoy the mountains with kids, from choosing the perfect destination to finding your accommodation and discovering new activities…
Choosing the perfect destination
With so many mountain resorts in France, it can be difficult to find the right one for children. If you want to choose the perfect place for a holiday in the mountains with children, you should look at resorts with the Famille Plus label. Recognised by the Ministry of Tourism, this distinction rewards resorts that are committed to providing families with a high-quality welcome and stay, in line with precise requirements.
Choosing the right accommodation
Games room, ski room, indoor or outdoor swimming pool, spa or jacuzzi, spacious bedrooms, home cinema… OVO Network partner chalets offer all the comforts and facilities you need to keep everyone busy and enjoy some family time together.
We have developed the “Cool for Kids” label, to identify the chalets that we think are particularly well suited for families. With just a few clicks, you can easily explore our partner properties and determine which ones provide all the features and facilities necessary to accommodate your little ones. What’s more, these properties offer parents luxurious comfort. Get ready to find:
- Baby’s Cot
- Baby Changing Table / Mat
- Non-slip mat
- Baby’s High Chair
- Toilet seat adaptor
- Games
- Children’s crockery/tableware
- Electrical outlet covers / safety sockets
- Stair gates
Some owners will also provide:
- Baby/children’s bed linen
- Night light
- Potty
- Baby Bath
- Baby step
- Bottle warmer
- Blender
- Booster/junior seat for use at a dining table
- Pétanque area
The best Alpine destinations for small children
Le Grand Bornand
Le Grand Bornand is the perfect destination for a mountain holiday with young children. With the Famille Plus label, this resort has all the features needed to welcome children, in both summer and winter alike.
Where to stay
Named “Chalet des Mômes,” which translates to “chalet of the children”, this remarkable accommodation truly lives up to its name. Labelled as “Cool For Kids Extra”, it caters impeccably to even the youngest of children. Every aspect has been meticulously considered to prioritise their safety and offer a welcoming environment. From high chairs and blenders to baby baths, cots, potties, footboards, and changing tables, the chalet boasts an array of amenities tailored to their needs.
What is there for children to do?
Le Grand Bornand offers a wide range of family activities, both in summer and winter:
- Discover the joys of skiing and tobogganing with the ESF ski school;
- Take a sleigh ride through magical snow-covered landscapes;
- Take part in the Au Bonheur des Mômes festival, which is particularly for children, and attend its many workshops, shows and exhibitions;
- Spend an afternoon at La Source play park;
- Take a walk along the wellness trail, which is accessible to pushchairs.
You can find more information available on the Le Grand-Bornand Tourist Office website.
Where to eat?
Craving a delightful meal infused with authentic Savoyard flavours? Then make your way to La Ferme du Pépé, where you can indulge in an array of Savoyard specialities. From reblochonnade and raclette to Savoyard fondue, this charming eatery with its farmhouse-style ambience will transport you to the past.
Moreover, the establishment caters to families with young children by providing amenities such as a changing table, high chairs, and children’s games.
There are many other family-friendly restaurants in Grand-Bornand. Find the full list here.
Combloux
Nestled in the Alps, the resort of Combloux truly shines as an extraordinary destination for a memorable vacation with young children.
With a strong focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere specifically designed for the little ones, the resort ensures that every detail is taken care of. From convenient day nurseries to reliable babysitters and engaging kindergartens, families can enjoy a stress-free holiday experience. It comes as no surprise that Combloux has earned the esteemed “Famille Plus” label.
For easy access to the comprehensive Guide des Ptits Loups, simply click here. These invaluable guides provide a wealth of essential contacts, guaranteeing a fantastic holiday for your children.
Where to stay
Just 15 minutes from Combloux, offering comfort and space, Chalet Beau Caillou has also been awarded the “Cool For Kids” label. Its layout and facilities have been designed with children under 3 in mind.
Each room is equipped with child-friendly features such as:
- Cot, nightlights in bedrooms;
- Steps, changing table and potty in the bathroom;
- A blender and crockery in the kitchen;
- A large screen in the living room for a family movie night.
It has everything you need! But please make sure children are supervised around the swimming pool.
What is there to do?
Combloux has a huge range of sporting, cultural and entertainment activities for all ages. Here are some ideas for activities to do with young children:
- Cool off at the water park, a natural swimming pool facing Mont Blanc;
- Meet Tilou, the resort’s mascot, and visit his den;
- Borrow board games from the Combloux Tourist Office – there’s something for all ages, even the little ones;
- Immerse yourself in the world of Les Légendes de Combloux, a festival that recounts the stories and legends of Combloux and the Pays du Mont-Blanc through theatre, sound and light shows;
- Visit Les Montagnards educational farm;
- Take a break at the library – a good option for rainy days.
For more family activities, visit the official Combloux Tourist Office website. You can find out more about the programme of all the resort’s activities and events here.
Eating out
Several restaurants in Combloux also hold the “Famille Plus” label. These establishments are committed to providing a quality welcome for both adults and children, offering fast and efficient service and a variety of dishes for children.
For a family holiday in Combloux, we recommend the Aux Ducs de Savoie restaurant. It offers refined cuisine with ingredients from the land, sea and lakes. For children, they offer:
- A children’s menu, or 1/2 portion of the daily menu;
- High chairs, bottle warmers and changing mats;
- Board games and books;
- Special prices for children.
Holidays in the Alps with children aged 4 to 7
La Clusaz
Seeking a family-friendly destination nestled in the captivating heart of the Alps? Look no further than La Clusaz, a proud holder of the prestigious “Famille Plus” label for over a decade.
Committed to delivering a top-notch welcome to every family member, La Clusaz goes above and beyond to ensure a seamless and enjoyable stay. There are diverse activities for all ages, customised facilities for everyone, and specialised services for families, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Where to stay
As well as offering parents comfort, space and modernity, Chalet Le Mousqueton has also been awarded the “Cool For Kids Extra” label. Its facilities and equipment have been thoughtfully designed with children in mind.
You’ll find:
- A games room and cinema where children can have fun in peace or relax and unwind in front of a cartoon;
- A vast outdoor play area where they can let off steam in fine weather;
- A great bedroom where the little ones will love to build huts and tell each other bedtime stories;
- A spacious kitchen for preparing family meals;
- A ski room where you can store all the family’s equipment;
- A swimming spa and gym to cool off and have fun;
- A jacuzzi and sauna to relax in after a sporting day in the mountains.
Another big advantage is that this property is ski-in ski-out – the pistes are directly accessible from the chalet in winter! So it’s ideal for families with small children or for those who are new to skiing.
What is there to do?
La Clusaz offers a large number of initiatives and activities aimed at young people, whatever the season. Here’s a small selection:
- Immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas at the Pestacles du Père Noël festival;
- Take a walk in the mountains. For just €5, you can pick up a guide to family outings from the La Clusaz Tourist Office;
- Go tobogganing down the slopes in both winter and summer;
- Learn to ski in a small group at the Club des Tiskieurs or Club des Souris;
- Cool off at the Aravis water park in summer;
- Take a donkey or pony ride with Les Galopins;
La Clusaz has all the ingredients for a superb mountain holiday with children. If you need more ideas for outings, head over to their website.
Eating out
Pizzas, Savoyard specialities or traditional cuisine – La Ferme has something for all the family. You can enjoy local, seasonal produce in a warm, friendly atmosphere: “At La Ferme, we get together, we share, we laugh, we sing, we dance. We celebrate friendship, love and life!”
If you’d like some more ideas, check out our article on the best restaurants in La Clusaz.
Manigod
Immerse yourself in the enchanting village of Manigod, where an abundance of activities, charming chalets, and captivating events await every family member. With all the essential ingredients for an extraordinary Alpine holiday with children, Manigod guarantees a truly superb experience.
What is there to do?
Looking for something to do with children aged 4 to 7 in Manigod? Here’s what OVO Network recommends:
- Burn off some energy on the bouncy castles;
- Have some fun driving a mini-quad;
- Relax with the whole family at Les Sapins wellness centre. It’s the perfect way to relax after a day on the slopes;
- Follow a nature trail through the forest;
- Take a dip in the open-air pool at the Col du Merdassier;
- Try out new snow sports such as sledging, paret (for older children), dog-sledding and snowtubing. And don’t forget skiing! Neither too big nor too small, Manigod is the perfect ski resort for children who are just starting out on the slopes.
Eating out
Located in the village of Manigod, Lo Garâjo is a high-altitude café with an unusual concept – part tea room, part wine cellar, part juice and craft beer bar, it also houses a delicatessen and a shop selling unusual items (games, cosmetics, clothes, pottery, etc.).
You can also challenge your friends and family to a number of board games while you’re there. Time flies in this family-friendly establishment!
Les Gets
At the Alpine resort of Les Gets, the happiness and well-being of children takes centre stage. The dedication to this is clear in the wide range of exciting and engaging activities offered for the entire family to enjoy!
Where to stay
Chalet Joux Verte is the ideal place to spend a holiday in the mountains with children.
The chalet has a TV room filled with comfortable floor cushions where children can play. Meanwhile, parents can relax in the hot tub, unwind in the sauna, enjoy a cup of tea in front of the fireplace, or work in the spacious study.
In summer and spring, there are plenty of outdoor facilities to keep everyone happy. There are several areas where you can enjoy an aperitif or a family meal with a great view. Plus there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained including a badminton set, pétanque set and croquet.
What is there to do?
There’s no shortage of things to do in Les Gets with children.
In summer, you can:
- Enjoy a thrilling summer sledge ride;
- Awaken your senses at the Jardin Delavay;
- Spend some fun family time at Parc Wibit, a fun water park with huge inflatables;
- Try your hand at motocross;
- Discover Les Gets and the surrounding area on the little train.
In winter, you can:
- Explore the Grand Cry territory – a real Indian village on the slopes;
- Learn to drive electric snowmobiles;
- Visit Santa’s village.
You can find out more about what there is to do in these two articles: 7 activities to enjoy in Les Gets this winter (1/2) and 7 activities to enjoy in Les Gets this winter (2/2).
You can also contact the Les Gets Tourist Office for information on the resort’s calendar of events and a full list of things to do in Les Gets.
Eating out
Located in the heart of the old village, the charming little restaurant La R’mize serves traditional dishes inspired by the region, as well as more exotic international dishes such as carpaccio of fresh scallops, sweetbreads, perch fillets and homemade foie gras. There’s also a children’s menu tailored to their tastes and needs.
Don’t forget to book!
A mountain holiday with children aged 8 to 11
Samoëns
Are you looking for a traditional destination for your next mountain holiday with older children? Look no further than the enchanting village of Samoëns! Boasting an endless array of thrilling leisure activities tailored to all age groups, Samoëns emerges as the perfect choice for a memorable getaway that will delight every member of your family.
Where to stay
Going away with children means more than just finding a lively and dynamic destination. It’s also about choosing a rental property that’s adapted to their needs and desires, as well as those of adults. In Samoëns, Chalet Keramis seems to be just what families are looking for.
This magnificent property, which has been awarded the “Cool For Kids Extra” label, boasts:
- A pleasant terrace with a large in-ground swimming pool;
- A cosy TV lounge with a huge corner sofa, perfect for a family film night on a cool autumn’s day;
- A smaller lounge dedicated entirely to children where they can meet up and do their own thing;
- A games room with a pool table, table football, board games and toys for the little ones;
- Rooms with single beds that can accommodate children;
- An outdoor hot tub facing the mountains.
It’s a property that’s sure to please!
What is there to do?
Like its neighbours, hiking, cycling and skiing are also very popular in Samoëns. But there is so much more to do outside this classic trio. A family holiday in Samoëns is also an opportunity for children to discover brand-new activities such as :
- Tree climbing;
- Via ferrata;
- Canyoning;
- Potholing;
- Climbing;
- Quad biking;
- Paintball.
Check out “Summer activities” and “Winter activities” on the Samoëns tourist office website for more suggestions.
Eating out
Indulge in the delectable flavours of classic French cuisine at L’étable, where a mouthwatering menu features iconic dishes like pot-au-feu, bœuf bourguignon, croziflette, blanquettes de veau, filet mignon, and chestnut soup. Prepared with utmost care and authenticity, the food embodies the essence of traditional regional family cooking, much like the owner, Josiane.
You’ll need to book ahead, as this is a popular place – and for good reason!
Valmorel
Valmorel takes great pride in its inclusive approach to welcoming guests of all ages. This remarkable resort boasts a diverse array of cultural visits, outdoor activities, gourmet discoveries, and exciting sporting events that cater to every age group. With its vibrant offerings, Valmorel has rightfully earned its reputation as an unmissable Alpine destination for a memorable family holiday.
Where to stay
Nestled a mere 10 minutes away from Valmorel ski resort, Chalet Pajules is an impeccable choice for families with children.
Designed with thoughtful consideration, the chalet features dedicated living spaces for children, including a cosy bedroom with bunk beds, a TV corner, and a fun games area. Additionally, adults can unwind in the soothing sauna or savour moments at the outdoor “aperitif-barbecue” area.
Moreover, the chalet offers expansive communal areas like the spacious lounge and dining room, facilitating memorable moments for the entire family. With this well-planned layout, families can enjoy quality time together without feeling crowded.
What is there to do?
The Famille Plus resort of Valmorel has a wide selection of activities suitable for children. As well as cycling, hiking and skiing, Valmorel also hosts more original leisure activities, so you can get off the beaten track and try out new experiences with children aged 8 to 11. Here are just a few examples:
- Try snake gliss, for plenty of fun and laughter;
- Take your first flight (10+);
- Build an igloo;
- Visit the walnut oil mill;
- Take part in the P’tits Trappeurs evening;
- Meet the animals during a cani-rando or a “Les P’tits fermiers” workshop (5 to 12 years old);
- Attend the Beaufort Festival;
- Take part in the Mad’Trail;
- Try your hand at biathlon.
Find out more about all the family activities at the Valmorel Tourist Office.
Eating out
And to end the day with something a bit different, why not head to Valmo Insolite for dinner – you can enjoy a fondue in a converted yurt as night falls!
These fondue evenings take place on Thursday and Friday evenings from 9 July to 1 September only. You’ll need to book well in advance to make sure of your spot!
There’s no shortage of places to go on holiday in the mountains with children. Many resorts have facilities and activities designed to welcome families. Day nurseries, activities, a wide range of entertainment for all ages… there are countless destinations which promise unforgettable family holidays.
If you’re planning a holiday with your children, you might also be interested in these articles:
- Childcare on your ski holiday
- 7 tips for travelling with children in the Alps
- 10 tips for a ski holiday with children under five
Discover our “Cool For Kids” chalets
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