If you’ve ever watched the Winter Olympics it’ll come as no surprise that Norway offers fantastic family skiing opportunities. The sheer amount of snow makes this refined country a haven for cross-country and downhill skiers alike. It’s not just the Olympians either – there is a long-standing tradition of family skiing in Norway, so many of the ski resorts are not only family-orientated, but family-run, too. As it’s only a short European flight and transfer away, it’s the ideal distance to travel for a short weekend away with the family. Dry snow and immaculately groomed pistes mean the skiing here is world-class – perfect for a late spring ski break. Here’s our pick of the best family skiing in Norway.
Trysil
Family skiing in Norway doesn’t get better than the country’s largest and oldest ski resort, Trysil, which provides varied terrain and 66 runs, with virtually no lift queues. We recommend the Friday and Sunday evening skiing. During high season there’s also Wednesday and Saturday morning skiing. The snow here is dry and the season is long, running from early November to late April, and if the conditions aren’t up to scratch, the resort will refund your ski-pass.
At the Radisson Blu resort, La Piazza is sure to be a hit with its thin crust pizzas and a cocktail list for the grown-ups, and the Chill Bowl and Dine authentic American diner will go down a treat with families too. Try the spa for a little bit of self-indulgence, with couples’ treatments, Finnish sauna and invigorating Turkish steam room.
Geilo
Geilo is a snow-sure ski resort nestled between two national parks, Oslo, and Bergen and it’s one of our favourite ski resorts for family skiing in Norway. With incredible scenery and a charming town this family destination is perfect for family skiing from mid-November to late April. Snowboarders can get stuck into two half-pipes and two sizeable snow parks here. Skiers will love throwing up the powder on wide, elegant turns. The local ski school supplies younger children with helmets to help them learn safely, and offers free access to the lift.
Post-ski, take up tobogganing, dog sledding or snuggle down in a horse-drawn sleigh. We highly reccomend staying at the Vestlia Resort because of its great ski-in ski out location and spacious family suites. At the charming, three-star Bardøla hotel there’s a children’s playroom to keep them occupied while you relax in the cosy bar.
Beitostolen
Beginner-friendly Beitostolen is great for a short skiing break. There are two main alpine ski areas, six lifts and more than 320 kilometres of cross-country tracks.
The Slalom Race and perfect mini-sized snowmobiles keep kids occupied in family-run Beitostolen. When you’ve hung up your skis for the day, why not try dog sledding, swimming or snowshoeing? Après-ski is quieter than in much of Europe, perfect for families with children, as there are fewer party-goers and more relaxed, cosy restaurants and cafes.
Myrkdalen
Myrkdalen enjoys an average snowfall of five metres and a season which lasts till the end of May. Children can run riot with designated ski areas and fun competitions during school holidays.
Myrkdalen is in the midst of a unique landscape of mountains and fjords. The UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord is only 35 minutes from the resort of Myrkdalen. Visit the incredible fjord surrounded by steep mountains and small villages. Our Ski and Fjord experience can be individually tailored to experience the scenic beauty of Norway.
There are three advanced black runs and 22 slopes in total. The family skiing in Norway is special with off-piste opportunities abound, including cross-country skiing, indoor skydiving or a magical sleigh ride. What could be better during the Christmas holidays?
You can ski up to the front doors of the chic, modern Myrkdalen Hotel. The sleek Scandinavian rooms are furnished in oak and have majestic views of the resort and valley below. To replenish your energy, head to Restaurant Tunet for pasta, pizza and the renowned Myrkdalen burger. Restaurant Nuten also has a mouthwatering fondue selection for you to indulge in, or you could head to the relaxed and sophisticated Salto Lobby Bar.
Norefjell
Norefjell is only 90 minutes away from Oslo, which is ideal for families not want to travel too far from the airport. The terrain is suitable mainly for families and mixed ability groups. You can explore 25km of slopes with a network of 13 lifts in the area. If you have a keen freestyle skier or snowboarder in the family there is a fantastic snowpark with excellent jumps, rails and wallrides. It has a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect to unwind in. The ski school has an excellent reputation and there are also great childcare options too. You can admire beautiful mountain scenery on and off the slopes.
Kvitfjell
World cup host Kvitfjell is one of the best ski resorts in Norway; with dramatic scenery and treelined runs for all abilities. It’s especially good for experienced skiers looking for an authentic Norwegian Ski Holiday; their season is long (even by Norwegian standards) and world cup teams use this resort to train early season.
You can ski 39km of slopes in the area and there’s something for all abilities of skier. The ski school offers great children’s lessons in a group or private setting. In addition, if you want to try cross-country skiing there are 600km of tracks to give a go. Lastly, there is also a snowpark with 12 rails/boxes and 8 jumps, if you have a thrill seeker within the group.
Hafjell
Host of the Lillehammer Olympics and a two-hours from Norway’s capital. Hafjell is a great ski destination for those looking for larger ski areas while avoiding crowds. Only a two-hour drive from Norway’s capital of Olso, Hafjell is a great ski destination for families. The ski resort has pistes that are suited to different abilities, with black runs to nursery slopes, ideal for mixed-ability families. In addition, there are 300km of cross-country tracks to enjoy if you want to try something different. Recently the ski resort has made great developments on its mountain experience with the addition of new cafes, bars, restaurants and slopeside accommodation.
Voss
Voss ski resort is a fantastic choice when considering the best family ski resorts in Norway. It is just a 90-minute drive or train from Bergen airport. Voss is home to over 45km of groomed piste which vary in difficulty. It is a perfect ski resort for beginners wanting to develop their turns.
For beginners there are three dedicated areas to progress, Trollbakken, Grebbesbakken and Badnakorkjen. Trollbakken is located by the main gondola station and has a 65m covered magic carpet. Throughout the ski season Voss host a number ski races and activities for children.
If you don’t get your skiing fix in the day the ski resort also offer night-skiing three times a week. There is also two snow-parks for those adrenaline junkies who want to show off their freestyle flair.
To find out more about family skiing in Norway, call our experts on 020 7741 7700.
