Where to Go on a Ski Vacation in February Half Term

France has some of the largest and highest ski areas in the world, including the Trois Vallées. The terrain caters to all levels of skiers and the resorts are known for their top-quality restaurants and huge range of accommodation. During February half-term, Scott Dunn runs its Explorers Clubs in Val d’Isère and Courchevel 1650, which give parents the chance to ski all day. For a resort without a long and twisty transfer, Megève is your place (just over an hour from Geneva). While, for guaranteed snow, head to Val Thorens, the highest ski resort in Europe.

The Dolomites’ wide, open runs are ideal for intermediate and beginner skiers, while experts will love how well-connected the area is. You can buy a pass for the whole of the Sella Ronda – a 42-kilometer collection of pistes, which includes San Cassiano, Val Gardena and Madonna di Campiglio. This helps to dilute the crowds during busy times of the year. Add into the mix amazing – and good value – food, plus the enthusiastic attitude towards children and you’ve got a perfect family ski vacation for February half-term.

Swiss resorts are known for their well-groomed slopes and stunning mountain scenery with a mix of challenging terrain and family-friendly ski areas. Switzerland has high standards and that’s reflected in the quality of hotels, restaurants, and services. Among our favorite resorts for ski trips in February half-term is Crans Montana, a beginner-friendly option with lovely hotels. For the true glitz and glamour of Switzerland head to Zermatt, St Moritz or Verbier.

Le Yule is in one of the best locations in Val d’Isere for families. Right on the edge of the nursery slope, it is close to the ski school drop-off point, as well as the Scott Dunn Explorers Club in the center of the resort. Its cozy restaurant serves snacks all day to hungry little skiers and there’s an indoor swimming pool, spa, and games room. Rooms are decorated in a modern, Scandinavian style and there are family suites available.

Hotel Fanes epitomizes Italian hospitality; welcoming, warm, and keen to feed you well. Along with an enviable wine cellar, relaxed and formal dining options, and a stunning spa and pool for the adults, there is a Mini Club and plenty of family-friendly accommodation options. This hotel hits exactly the right note of style and substance, knowing what parents and kids need for a happy February half-term ski vacation together.

Brand new to the area, Six Senses Crans Montana is the height of luxury in the Swiss Alps. If you know the Six Senses brand, you’ll know you’re in for a treat. Impeccable service comes from the GEM team (Guest Experience Makers), who will answer your every wish, the hotel is built right into the mountain with amazing access to the slopes. There are heated indoor and outdoor pools, a swanky kids’ club and interconnecting rooms and suites.

Situated in a prime location, this ski-in-ski-out hotel right on the slopes is ideal for a February half-term ski trip. Not only are there family rooms with space for everyone, but you also have the Scott Dunn Explorers Club inside the hotel. A fabulous atmosphere occupies La Portetta, which has one of the most popular après ski and lunch spots in the area, The Fire and Ice Bar, which serves piping hot pizzas from a wood-burning oven, while Angela Hartnett’s Cucina Angelina is one of the best restaurants in Courchevel 1650.

You’ve got Val d’Isere right on your doorstep at Barmes d l’Ours, which has a slope-side location next to the ski lifts and runs. The beautifully designed hotel is one of the most luxurious in the area, with a Michelin-star restaurant and a dazzling spa, as well as a bowling alley and games room for the kids. Rooms and suites are decked out in four different styles to suit all tastes, pick between American Lodge, Pine Chalet, Scandinavian and Contemporary.

Part of the luxurious Relais & Chateaux group, the Hotel Hermitage, overlooking Cervinia's town center, combines a mountain cabin feel with the polished service you’d expect at a five-star hotel. The 38 bedrooms are all decorated differently, adding to the character and intimate nature of the hotel. There’s a Michelin-star restaurant and an impressive wine cellar, plus a spa with a heated indoor pool and La Prairie treatments. A shuttle will take you to and from the lifts making it an easy return at the end of a tiring day.