Chalet, hotel, apartment?
Bewildered by the choice of options when it comes to skiing accommodation? Read on to work out the best option for you...
Catered chalets
For many, the beauty of catered chalet holidays is the food - breakfast, afternoon tea and a three course evening meal with free wine - and someone to cook it and wash up afterwards. You have the freedom of your own space rather than the more formal environment of a hotel which can be great if you are with a group of friends and can take over the whole chalet.
Self-catered apartments or chalets
If you prefer to be your own boss then you should think about self-catered accommodation. You choose when you get up and when (and what) you eat. On the downside, you do have to be fairly organised to shop and cook after a full day on the slopes and eating out every night can add up, although take-aways are an option, and you have the chance to check out some of the local restaurants too.
Hotels
Hotels tend to be the more luxurious option, often with welcome facilities such as steam rooms, swimming pools and on-site bars (although check out the luxury chalet operators too). They are often the best option for short breaks but at peak times even they may demand a minimum stay of one week.
Specialist travel agencies
Specialist travel agencies offer a lot of choice and can be a good place to start if you're not sure what you want. Some offer great packages which include lessons or lift passes, and if you have young children, child-friendly tour operators will make your life much easier by providing child care, as well as giving you the option of hiring items such as high chairs.
