Where to go for cheap half term ski holidays
Let's be real. February half term can be a wallet-wrenching time for families planning a ski trip. With the kids out of school and the season in full swing, it feels like everyone and their dog is hitting the slopes. But what if we told you that scoring a cheap half term skiing adventure needn't be a pipe dream? Perfect for those on a budget, we have all the intel you need to bag you and your family the best half term ski bargains that'll have the whole crew grinning ear-to-ear with excitement. So, herd up the kids, grab the suitcases, and get fondue-ready. We're here with our selection of the best and cheapest half term ski resorts in Europe - helping you save time, money, and fuss without losing out on that all-important family fun. Let's get stuck in: 1. Bansko, Bulgaria
When it comes to affordability, Bansko Bulgaria skiing stands out from the crowd - and is one of our top sellers. Offering great all round value alongside fantastic kid-friendly skiing, it’s an ideal choice for ‘new-to-the-slope’ families seeking the best Feb half term ski deals on a budget. Half term ski breaks on Bansko's vast and varied pistes offer something for every family member, from newbies to daredevils. Kids can practice their snow ploughs on the expansive, gentle beginner slopes or let loose in the dedicated kid's zone with slaloms, arches, and obstacles. Meanwhile, seasoned parents can take to thrilling reds and blacks like Balkaniada and Tomba, or take the fun truly off-piste with steep chutes and open powder-filled bowls alongside a guide. “Ski runs? Where we're going, we don't need ski runs!” Off the slopes:
UNESCO-protected, the town of Bansko delights newcomers with cobbled lanes crammed full of traditional shops, yummy food, and fab kids' entertainment. With great value, a variety of kid-friendly dining options, and warm sun terraces overlooking the spectacular Pirin National Park, there’s a whole lot to love about Bansko ski holidays in Feb half term. 2. Zakopane, Poland
Zakopane (that's Zak-o-pan-a!) in Poland's spectacular Tatra Mountains might seem like a bit of a wildcard. However, this striking ski resort has more than a few surprising aces up its sleeves. Well-known for its great value and fantastic beginner skiing, Zakopane half term ski holidays have gained a cult following among budget holiday enthusiasts, quickly becoming one of the go-to cheap half term ski resorts for families. The peaks of Zakopane are home to Poland's best slopes, with the highest kilometre counts, modern lift systems, and oh-so-snowy altitudes the country has to offer. Although certainly not a destination for advanced powderhounds, Zakopane is truly awesome for beginners and kids. The slopes are well-marked and groomed, and there are plenty of cheap, bilingual ski schools for first-timers. Plus, the lift passes here are incredibly affordable, making it an ideal choice for a family half term ski trip with kids that might want some days off in between. Off the slopes:
If you’re looking for that true winter wonderland experience, Zakopane offers plenty of fun-filled activities beyond skiing and snowboarding. From snow tubing, sleigh rides, and ice skating, to snowshoeing and wildlife walks in the magnificent Tatra National Park. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for cheeky marmots, golden eagles, and even brown bears! Oh my! 3. Arinsal, Andorra
Looking for half term ski deals? Allow us to introduce Arinsal in Andorra. With excellent value skiing and snowboarding, snow-sure 2,600m altitudes, and fab bilingual ski schools, Arinsal keeps families returning for their half term ski breaks year after year, and it’s not hard to see why. A true beginner’s paradise, Pal Arinsal’s compact ski area keeps everything your mini skiers may want or need within easy mitten-reaching distance. Parents can take kids for their first ski runs on the relaxed, mellow pistes at Arinsal’s dedicated nursery area. Once their first lesson at ski school begins, it’s time for the adults to let rip. With over 20 intermediate and advanced runs at the ready - in addition to the radical 'freestyle' area complete with boxes, rails, and kickers - that’s a whole lot of skiing to fit in before the final school bell rings! Off the slopes:
One of the best things about family half term ski holidays at Arinsal is the sheer variety of activities both on and off the slopes. Whether it's getting little hearts racing with snow tubing, ski biking, and snowmobiles, or chilling out Andorran style with jacuzzis, saunas, and mouth-watering local speciality eats, it’s no wonder Arinsal remains one of our customers’ most-loved half term ski resorts. 4. Borovets, Bulgaria
Looking for the perfect place to introduce your family to the joys of skiing this February half term without breaking the bank? With its unbeatable combo of Bulgarian affordability, easy-to-reach nursery slopes, and long, enjoyable green runs, Borovets Feb half term ski trips are a treasure trove of family fun just waiting to be discovered. Borovets offers exceptional value for money for families who want to spend as much of their time out on the slopes as possible. Here, you’ll save on all aspects of a family ski holiday - from lift passes, transfers and accommodation, to gear hire, ski lessons, and food and drink. Borovets isn't just great for beginners either. It offers plenty to enjoy for more confident parents and kids too, including high-altitude slopes, lightning-quick reds, and even a 250m long terrain park complete with a thrilling mix of boxes, rails, and kickers. Off the slopes:
From sledge rides and toboggan runs to horseback riding, Borovets offers a wide range of winter activities that the whole family can enjoy. And if the weather doesn't cooperate, other great indoor options like pools, saunas, spas, and kids' clubs are here to help.
5. La Massana, Andorra
La Massana's February half term ski holidays are just the ticket for peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle. This fab Feb half term ski resort offers laid-back fun and whimsical winter charm, whilst proving that snow-dusted mountain adventures needn’t be out of reach if you’re on a budget. Perfect for first-time skiers and young families, La Massana offers heaps of great-value accommodation options conveniently located next to its quiet, scenic slopes. We recommend booking you and the kids for your first ski or snowboard lessons at La Massana Ski School in Pal to master the basics, or take a freeride lesson to nail the rails and jumps over at the terrain park. After school, hop on the seven-minute ski lift to Arinsal and Pal's beginner pistes to put all that hard work to the test. With 2,000m altitudes and an army of snow cannons at the ready, there's no need to worry about the white stuff here! Off the slopes:
When the skiing's done, it's time to shop 'till you drop! With its famous tax-free shopping and great-value food and drink, La Massana is ideal for an afternoon of retail therapy. Alternatively, if your kids can't bear to be parted from the mountain fun, stay snowside with zip lines, snowshoeing, and speedy husky rides through alpine forests. Mush!
New to Heidi? If you're frustrated with typical package holiday restrictions, then we might just be what you're looking for. You’ll find our ski holidays more customisable than your typical ski package provider, but a lot easier to put together than doing it all yourself. Choose where you want to go from 300+ ski resorts, travel the day you want, stay as long as you like.
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