Ski holidays for all the family in Canada, Italy and Bulgaria

The ski season is just around the corner, so I am sure you want to know which the best resort to head to in 2012 is. We have chosen some of the ‘must go to’ resorts for families this season.

Whistler, Canada –Very family friendly

Boasting one of the longest ski seasons is Whistler in Canada, situated in the breathtaking coastline mountain range of British Columbia, it is a leading, year-round location, and is the ideal place for a ski holiday. The resort is only 120km north of Vancouver and features over 8000 acres of mountain terrain - which includes 12 alpine bowls, 3 glaciers and above 200 marked pistes that are supported by 33 lifts, which means you only ever have to take 1 or 2 lifts to get to most parts of the resort. Whistler organised the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, firmly developing its place on the world stage. Standard snowfall is in excess of 30 feet a season with the season lasting from November through August.

Selva val Gardena , Italy – Cheap and cheerful

Selva val Gardena is a popular resort for families and school trips due to the low prices, excellent ski schools and few queues. For those with younger families it is worth noting that children under-eight go free. The spectacular surroundings of the Dolomites provide a fantastic view as you head down the runs. Selva is virtually linked to Santa Cristina and together they create the Sella Ronda circuit which has 175km of pistes. So go to Selva this season for the perfect ski holiday in Italy.

Levi , Finland – A real winter wonderland

Finnish Lapland is a haven for family Christmas ski holidays, children can go and see Santa in his grotto or take a reindeer sleigh ride, while adults can enjoy the magnificent Northern Lights if the holiday is timed right. The ski season in Levi generally lasts eight months from mid-October to the beginning of June. Levi’s northern position pretty much ensures snowfall right down to the base of the mountain and is the largest destination for a ski holiday in Finland. Whilst you are in Levi you could also check out cross-country skiing, there is an extensive range of 230km cross-skiing paths. Floodlights are present across the whole of the resort which allows the slopes to stay open way past sundown. There is a bus that runs all the way around Levi on a regular basis.

Bansko, Bulgaria – A great place to learn to ski

Bansko is one of the most modern resorts in the world and has recently undergone a multi-million euro investment. It is a firm favourite for a ski holiday in Bulgaria and the perfect place for families to begin their love for skiing with excellent ski schools that will give you more for you money than other European resorts.The resort benefits from some of the best snow conditions in Bulgaria with the season usually last from December to May. The destination offers 70km of slopes suitable for all capabilities and recently has started to deliver brand new possibilities for skiers as well as snowboarders. Would you take your family to one of these resorts?