Our First Family Ski Holiday in Châtel: From Complete Beginners to a New Family Tradition
- Jun 15
- 4 min read
When our son Elliott was given the opportunity to go on his first school ski trip abroad, we were excited for him—but also slightly nervous.
Having never skied before, we thought it would be a good idea for him to gain some experience before heading off on his own adventure. That gave us the perfect excuse to book a Christmas ski holiday in Châtel, France, and enjoy our very first family ski trip together.
At the time, it seemed like a practical decision. Looking back, it turned out to be one of the best family holidays we've ever taken.
Why We Chose Châtel for Our First Ski Holiday
Like many families considering their first ski holiday, we weren't exactly experienced skiers.
Jon had skied regularly in his younger years but hadn't been on the slopes for more than 20 years. Elliott and I, meanwhile, were complete beginners.
Despite our nerves, Châtel immediately felt like the perfect destination. Located within the vast Portes du Soleil ski area on the French-Swiss border, the village combines excellent beginner-friendly skiing with a traditional Alpine atmosphere.
It felt welcoming from the moment we arrived.
Travelling to Châtel from Newcastle Airport
Our journey began with a flight from Newcastle International Airport to Geneva, followed by a coach transfer of around 90 minutes into the French Alps.
The transfer itself became part of the holiday experience.
As we left the city behind and climbed deeper into the mountains, the scenery became increasingly spectacular. Snow-covered peaks, charming Alpine villages and winding valleys provided breathtaking views throughout the journey.
With every mile, the excitement grew as we realised our first family ski adventure was about to begin.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Accommodation
For our stay, we booked self-catering apartments directly opposite the gondola.
At first glance, that may not sound particularly important, but when you're carrying skis, poles and wearing ski boots for the very first time, location suddenly becomes everything.
Being able to walk straight across the road each morning made life considerably easier and allowed us to maximise our time on the slopes. For first-time skiers, convenience is worth its weight in gold.
Learning to Ski as a Family
One thing I quickly discovered was that children learn to ski far faster than adults.
I had assumed Elliott and I would be placed together in the beginner ski school group. Instead, we were separated almost immediately.
While I was still concentrating on stopping safely and mastering the basics, Elliott was progressing with remarkable confidence. He approached every challenge fearlessly and seemed to absorb new techniques with ease.
It was both impressive and slightly humbling.
Watching him gain confidence on the slopes was one of the highlights of the holiday and gave us reassurance ahead of his upcoming school ski trip.
Making Friends in Ski School
One of the unexpected joys of a ski holiday is how sociable it can be.
Joining ski school initially felt a little daunting, particularly as an adult beginner, but it didn't take long to settle in. Everyone is learning something new, stepping outside their comfort zone and sharing similar challenges.
I was fortunate to meet a lovely group of Irish skiers in my class, and their support, humour and encouragement made a huge difference.
Before long, ski school felt less like a lesson and more like a shared adventure.
Christmas in the French Alps
Spending Christmas in Châtel was a completely different experience to our usual festive celebrations.
Normally, Christmas Day at home involves cooking for around 16 people, and while I genuinely enjoy the social side of hosting, I didn't feel like I was missing out at all.
The village atmosphere was magical.
Restaurants were plentiful, offering everything from cosy mountain dining to more sophisticated evening meals. One piece of advice we would definitely share is to book restaurants well in advance if you're travelling during the festive period, as Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day are particularly busy.
During our stay, we met a lovely Dutch family and ended up sharing Christmas Day dinner together. It was a wonderful reminder of how travel can bring people together and create unexpected friendships.
Magical Festive Events in Châtel
One of our favourite memories was watching Père Noël arrive in the village on a horse-drawn carriage.
As he waved to the crowds and threw sweets to excited children, the festive atmosphere felt truly magical.
The celebrations continued with a spectacular torchlight procession as ski instructors descended the slopes carrying flaming torches through the snowy village.
Against the backdrop of the Alps, it was an unforgettable sight and one that perfectly captured the spirit of Christmas in the mountains.
Why We Fell in Love with Ski Holidays
What surprised us most was how quickly skiing became addictive.
There's something incredibly rewarding about learning a new skill while surrounded by some of the world's most beautiful scenery. The combination of fresh mountain air, physical activity and a sense of achievement creates a holiday experience unlike any other.
One day you're nervously attempting your first turns. A few days later, you're confidently making your way down slopes you never imagined you'd tackle.
That sense of progress is hugely satisfying.
Would We Go Skiing Again?
Without hesitation—yes.
What started as a one-off trip to help prepare Elliott for his school ski adventure has become something we want to repeat year after year.
Whether it's another Christmas ski holiday or perhaps a February half-term escape, we know we'll continue returning to the mountains.
The scenery, the atmosphere, the challenge, the friendships and the shared family experiences have all combined to create memories we'll never forget.
Our first family ski holiday may have started with uncertainty, but it ended with a brand-new family tradition.
Thinking About Your First Family Ski Holiday?
If you're considering your first ski holiday and aren't sure where to start, we'd love to help.
At Stanhope Travel, we can recommend family-friendly ski resorts, arrange flights, accommodation, lift passes and transfers, and help you find the perfect destination whether you're complete beginners or experienced skiers.
Contact our team today and let us help you plan your own unforgettable family ski adventure.
