Ski Holidays

Ski holidays in the Swiss & French Alps

Ski holidays in the French & Swiss Alps are a dream for avid skiers, with hundreds of pistes to choose from. Families can take advantage of gentle green and blue runs, while advanced skiers tackle the steepest black routes.

But the fun doesn’t end on the slopes! Once you’re done flying around the mountains, there’s nothing quite like relaxing in a thermal spa or bathing in a warm hot tub. And then, when you’re all zenned out, you’ve got some of the world’s best après-ski spots at your fingertips. From terraces made for soaking up the last of the day’s winter sun to DJ sets and live music, get ready to party on the piste with bars right on top of your favourite runs.

After you’ve had your fill of drinks, dancing and dining, it’s time to retire to your cosy chalet, where you can rest and recharge - and get ready to do it all over again!

So if you want reliable snow, a great choice of runs, off-slope entertainment and fantastic lift systems, all just a short hop from the UK - these alpine favourites won’t let you down.

Ski holidays 2026 & 2027

...with Thomas Cook

Snow for miles, snug cabins and stunning mountain scenery everywhere you look, yes we’re talking about ski holidays. You’ll find ski resorts and chalets in iconic destinations from European favourites in the French and Swiss Alps all the way to Canada and its Rocky Mountain range.

And with ski holidays 2026 deals still waiting to be snapped up, you can book now for this winter! Or if you don’t mind waiting a little longer, you can always browse our 2027 ski holidays and get a snowscape booked in for early next year.

Our top Ski destinations

ItalyHistory, food, wine and culture combine

CanadaA fascinating country shaped by its turbulent history.

FranceAdored for its food, fashion and fine wine.

Switzerland

Ski package holidays – what’s included

Ski package holidays vary depending who you book with but as standard they typically cover the basics such as accommodation and return flights, with the option to add extras including:

Airport to hotel transfers
Luggage
Meals and drinks (board basis dependant)
Excursions
Travel insurance (make sure this covers extreme sports)
Ski carriage (most airlines charge extra if you’re bringing your own equipment)

Don’t forget that you’ll also need ski extras including:

Lift passes
Ski equipment
Lessons (for beginners)

Ski holidays in France

Seasoned skier or not, France is home to some of the world’s best alpine resorts, with runs for all abilities. Areas like Chamonix are a top choice for both families and experts alike. Sitting at the base of France’s tallest mountain (Mont Blanc), you’ll find plenty of high-altitude slopes that you can zoom down. But you’ve also got spots like Les Houches, with its great mix of gentle and challenging runs.

Val Thorens is part of Les 3 Vallées, often listed among the best ski resorts in the world. With so many runs to choose from, it’s unlikely you’ll cover the same ground twice. As much as skiing is the centre of the fun here, you’ll get just as much enjoyment out of the tasty French cuisine. From fancy fine-dining experiences and family-friendly spots serving international classics to traditional spots and bistros specialising in winter favourites like cheese fondue and raclette (melted cheese scraped onto potatoes).

Ski holidays in Switzerland

Ski holidays and stunning scenery are what Switzerland does best. Think beautiful Swiss towns covered in snow and overlooking towering peaks like the Matterhorn. Known for its top-notch wellness facilities, you can’t come all this way without reaping the health benefits of a Swiss sauna session.

Zermatt, home to one of Switzerland's iconic peaks, is a must-visit for most, while premium resorts like St. Moritz offer so much more than ski trails, from high-end shopping, fancy dining spots and luxury hotels. Families looking to hit the slopes tend to favour spots like Wengen for its easy trails and car-free villages.

Since you’re in Switzerland it would be a shame not to dive into the local food scene with many mountainside restaurants serving local winter favourites like rösti (potato pancakes) and Swiss chocolate - which goes great with a warm drink.

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FAQs

When should I book ski holidays for 2026?

You should book ski holidays for 2026 in advance (6 months or more). Ski seasons typically run from December to April, so it’s best to look ahead to avoid disappointment if dates, flights and accommodation are booked up. However, if you want to travel during peak times (school holidays or Christmas) it’s worth looking even further in advance. If you’re not restricted to dates, you may not need to book as far ahead as there’s often less demand for ski holidays at the start of the season.

Are ski holidays available for December 2026?

Yes, ski holidays are available to book for December 2026 but the best deals are likely to get snapped up. We suggest booking in advance to secure the cheapest deals, especially if you’re hoping to get away during the busy Christmas period.

What are the typical costs of going on a ski holiday?

If you’re booking ski package holidays your flights and accommodation will be paid for upfront. But you’ll need to factor in extra costs for things like lift passes, ski hire, or ski lessons if it’s your first time on the slopes. The prices of ski extras will vary depending on who you book with, but you can also save money by keeping your eyes peeled for special offers or paying for some extras beforehand.