Winter in La Bresse means family-sized skiing, varied snow activities and warm chalet evenings. Here is a 7-day programme to live the Vosges winter without rushing, with kids aged 5 to 14.
Day 1: arrival and après-ski
Arrival in the early afternoon, settle in, pick up ski gear. See La Bresse ski rental to book ahead. First walk on foot through the centre, dinner at the chalet.
Day 2: ski taster
- Beginners: Mauselaine slope or ESF (French ski school)
- Intermediate: La Bresse Hohneck area
- Family day pass recommended, see Vosges ski pass comparison
Day 3: sledging and hot chocolate
Morning: sledging on the dedicated runs in La Bresse. Afternoon: visit to the Bressaude sweet shop, hot chocolate snack in the village centre. Evening: night skiing from age 9, see La Bresse night skiing.
Day 4: snowshoes and sled dogs
Morning: snowshoe walk at Lispach, see La Bresse snowshoe loops. Afternoon: sled-dog taster, see La Bresse sled dogs. Memories guaranteed.
Day 5: big ski day
Full day on the slopes for those making progress. For the youngest, alternate green runs and a break in a heated cabin. Lunch at altitude possible.
Day 6: rest and culture break
Take a physical break and enjoy a different pace:
- Spa and balneo in a private chalet, see spa-balneo chalets
- A visit to Gérardmer by the lake
- Christmas market (in December), see Gérardmer Christmas market
- Mountain inn at altitude, in the warm
Day 7: big ski session or snowpark
For teens and older kids, the La Bresse snowpark is the place to try a few features. Otherwise, a quiet last morning, lunch and departure.
Choosing your winter chalet
Key criteria:
- Close to slopes: see chalets close to slopes
- Sauna or Nordic bath: see Nordic bath chalets
- Fireplace or wood stove
- Heated ski locker
Indicative budget for a family of 4
- Chalet, 7 nights, peak winter: 1,200 to 2,400 euros
- 6-day ski passes: 600 to 900 euros
- 6-day equipment rental: 280 to 450 euros
- ESF lessons (optional): 150 to 300 euros
- Food and activities: 500 to 800 euros
- Total: 2,700 to 4,800 euros
Good to know
- Winter tyres or chains required in the mountains (Loi Montagne 2)
- Snow cover varies, see La Bresse snow report
- Family ski passes often better value from 4 people
- For toddlers, ESF or Petit Bernois daycare
- No snow: see La Bresse winter without skiing
Plan your week
For a stress-free ski holiday, book your chalet 6 months ahead. Discover our chalets in La Bresse close to the slopes, with sauna or jacuzzi.
Book a winter chalet in La Bresse
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best week for the holidays?
February holidays are usually the snowiest. January outside the school holidays for quiet. Mid-March for sun and softer prices.
Which area is best to start out?
La Bresse Hohneck for variety, the Mauselaine slope for absolute beginners, Lispach for peace and quiet.
Do you need your own gear?
No, well-organised rentals on site. Book online to save 15 to 20 percent.
What if there is no snow?
Bike park, walks, animal park, mountain inns, spa and wellness stay open. See our La Bresse winter-without-skiing guide.
Can children try sled dogs?
Yes from age 4 for a taster. Typical 1h to 1h30 outing, supervised by a musher.