Which is the best month of the winter season for good snow, a lively resort and a full programme of events? If you’re eagerly waiting for the February school holidays to take your children skiing, you already know the answer.
In this article, we explain the advantages of staying in the Alps during the February holidays, and reveal a number of activities and events that are a must for a successful ski holiday.
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Why should you head to the French Alps in February?
1. An ideal time for families
February is the perfect month to visit the Alps with your family. The ski resorts offer a varied programme of events and activities for all ages, as well as dedicated childcare facilities.
For example, you can enjoy mountain carnivals, as well as torch-lit descents and concerts (see our selection of events further in this article).
Good to know: In France, the dates of the school holidays vary according to the area, which helps to regulate the flow of guests throughout February, so you can enjoy a holiday without too many crowds.
2. Great snow conditions
Although snow conditions are always unpredictable in the mountains, it’s unusual not to find a fairly deep layer of snow in most Alpine resorts in February, and not just at higher altitudes.
This means great powder days and the chance of off-piste skiing for the most experienced skiers.
3. All services are up and running
Instructors, snow groomers, rescue workers, technicians and others are all there to meet the needs of the busy February holidays. Staffing levels tend to fall later in the season.
This means that more slopes are open and accessible, particularly the green runs and other beginners’ areas. Beginners are also sure to find lessons to suit their level.
Similarly, all the shops, bars and restaurants in the resorts are open, and many of them put on special events to liven up your afternoons.
Good to know: As soon as the school holidays end, the crowds thin out, but the services on offer remain the same, sometimes at reduced prices. It’s worth thinking about this if your holiday dates are flexible.
Skiing and other winter sports: a must in the Alps in February
Skiing in all its forms is the number one winter sport in the Alps: downhill skiing, ski touring, cross-country skiing, freestyle skiing or even aerial skiing. And of course, let’s not forget snowboarding and monoskiing.
If you want to explore a wider range of sporting activities, try snowmobiling, mountain biking or snowscooting (with skis instead of wheels), ice skating, horse-drawn skijoring, solo or group sledging (Snake Gliss), or a simple snowshoe walk to discover the region in peace and tranquility.
There are plenty of off-piste winter activities in the Alps too – from après-ski celebrations in the resorts to a relaxing session in one of the wellness centres.
The best family activities for your February holiday
As well as skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy in the mountains. If you’re looking for something to do as a family, even with young children, why not try:
- a dog sled ride;
- a horse-drawn carriage ride;
- ice diving (from age 12);
- a nature trail;
- food tasting;
- a visit to a Savoyard village.
Good to know: Some of our partner chalets offer equipment dedicated to children and babies, from board games to changing tables. Check out the “Cool for Kids” category on our search page.
Family events and festivities in the Alps
Here are some of the family events on offer each year in different resorts in the Alps:
Ski show
La Clusaz
This spectacular torchlight descent, followed by a ski show by ESF instructors, will thrill and amaze you! Mulled wine, hot chocolate and Reblochon cheese are the perfect accompaniment.
Fire show
Le Grand-Bornand
Le Grand-Bornand holds a fire show several times during the season, using the latest technology to create extraordinary special effects.
Fluorescent ice show
Megève
Come and finish the day with some music in the fluorescent setting of the Megève ice rink, with three hours of rhythmic and informal skating. Snacks and refreshments are available on site.
Carnival Saint-Jean-de-Sixt, Avoriaz, and other Alpine resorts Celebrate Carnival in the mountains, during a colourful family afternoon. The programme includes a fancy dress parade, a make-up workshop and a festive atmosphere which will appeal to all ages.
Farmers’ festival Châtel Farmers gather in the church square for their annual festival, with traditional music and a competition for the best Abondance cheese. Children can meet the farm animals and discover cheese-making.
Our handy diaries list all of this year’s main events throughout the season, in the three major Alpine areas:
- Winter events in the Aravis
- Winter events in the Portes du Soleil
- Winter events in the Évasion Mont-Blanc
Practical tips for a wonderful February holiday in the Alps
The February holidays are one of the most popular times of the year in the Alpine resorts. That’s why it’s essential to plan and book your holiday several months in advance. This includes accommodation, lift passes and equipment hire, as well as some popular restaurants and activities.
Booking in advance also saves money, as this is the most expensive time of the year. So if your holiday dates are flexible, it may be more worthwhile considering a holiday in January, or once the school holidays are over.
There is a wide choice of family resorts in the Alps, some of which are just as lively, and often even more charming than the more popular destinations. Sometimes all you need to do is choose an undiscovered resort for an exceptional holiday away from the crowds.
Good to know: Our special offers page lists all the discounts available at our partner chalets, whenever you choose to visit.
Book your mountain accommodation now:
The Alps are perfect for a family ski break during the February holidays: the snow cover is virtually guaranteed, the events programme is packed, and there are plenty of activities on offer. What’s more, the wide variety of destinations means you can choose the one that has everything your family expects.
However, if you’d prefer to avoid the crowds and your dates are flexible, we’d advise you to head for the Alps in March.
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