It’s never too early (we’re thinking of your little ones) or too late (we’re thinking of you!) to discover the mountains at their most breathtaking: covered in a blanket of pristine white snow. Do you usually head to the countryside or the beach for spring break? This year, break the routine and surprise your kids with their first ski trip!
Snow in April? Yes, yes—it's possible!
Ahhh, spring… Trees budding, tulips adding color to the flower beds, the grass growing like crazy… and snow still very much present at higher elevations! While April is synonymous with nature coming back to life in the valleys, it’s also the favorite month (not to mention a well-kept secret) for spring skiing enthusiasts. Soft snow warmed by the sun, longer days that let you enjoy outdoor seating until evening, and rising temperatures. All the ingredients are there to make spring the best season for a first family ski trip.
Promise your kids an Easter vacation in the snow without the risk of disappointing them: in Les Arcs, snow coverage is guaranteed on nearly all the ski runs through the end of April, with 70% of the mountain area located above 2,000 meters and a highest point at 3,226 meters.
Learn all about the Les Arcs ski area (including the 18 green/easy runs and 55 blue/intermediate runs that are popular with adult beginners and children).Discover the fun-filled ski runs (La Forêt des Pitchouns and the Piste des Minis) and the practice areas designed for beginners (first time on the slopes, first turns, first run).
Kids’ favorite spots in the ski area: the Géants de Malgovert (whimsical wooden play structures accessible by ski), the Fresques Lumineuses de l’Aiguille Rouge (a colorful sound-and-light show at the top of the Varet gondola) and the Galerie des Minéraux (accessible via the Transarc gondola).
Here's what's in store for your first ski vacation: skiing… but that's not all!
While the hallowed medal proudly pinned to a ski jacket at the end of a week of group lessons continues to capture children’s imaginations generation after generation, it must now share the spotlight with many other activities in the stories these young riders tell about their vacations when they return to school.
Sledding (ages 3 and up on the Arc 1800 trail and ages 12 and up on the Arc 2000 trail), zip line (25 kg and up), adventure course (ages 3 and up), mini-snowmobiles (ages 5 and up), laser rifle shooting (ages 8 and up)… All these family-friendly activities are available at rock-bottom prices from April 4 to 25, 2026, thanks to the “Buy 1 Activity, Get 1 Free” accommodation deal. These savings mean you can also treat yourself to other winter sports classics, like a meal at a nice outdoor restaurant or dinner in a real igloo village!
Want to take the plunge… but not quite sure how to go about it?
Ask the reception staff at the Les Arcs Tourist Office all your questions (even the ones that seem silly—we promise, they’re not)! They’re available 7 days a week, by email and phone, to make planning your first family ski vacation as easy as possible :)
Les Arcs Tourist Office
First Ski Vacation: 5 Pitfalls to Avoid
Pitfall #1: Forgetting your sunglasses and sunscreen
In the spring, the sun’s glare off the snow is at its strongest. Make sure to bring sunglasses for the whole family (including babies), and pack SPF 50 sunscreen! Apply it to every bit of exposed skin, several times a day, even when clouds roll in ;)
Pitfall #2: Not packing ski clothes for non-skiers
Ski gear keeps you warm on the slopes… but it also keeps you dry during other snow activities! Sledding, snowshoeing, building snowmen: you’ll never regret packing ski gear for non-skiers.
Pitfall #3: Not thinking about waterproof shoes
You might not need them for shopping or going to a restaurant if the sidewalks are dry, but you’ll thank us for reminding you every time you want to cross the snow front or head to snow-covered activity sites (spring snow gets you wet!)..
Pitfall #4: Forgetting to check the weather
In Les Arcs, as elsewhere, the weather can hold surprises in April. So take a look at the forecast before packing your bags—you might want to pack extra long-sleeved shirts (or leave some behind) depending on what’s predicted. In any case, don’t forget your swimsuit: you’ll need it whether it’s hot or cold, at the pool and the spa!
Pitfall #5: Not planning ahead for parking (if you’re coming by car)
Of course, if you’re coming by train (what a great idea!), this isn’t an issue. However, if you decide to drive, be sure to reserve a parking spot before you arrive (with your host if they have private parking, or at public parking lots otherwise). This will save you unnecessary stress when you arrive :)
