Is Vaujany the Ultimate Family-Friendly Ski Resort in the Alps?
Move over traditional favourites like Courchevel, Chamonix, and Méribel. Vaujany, a charming French village, emerges as the perfect destination for family ski vacations, especially for beginners. Nestled in the French Alps and just an hour’s drive from Grenoble, Vaujany is not only accessible but also boasts the prestigious “Famille Plus Montagne” label, recognizing its family-friendly appeal.
This idyllic village, enriched by hydroelectric dam investments, exudes a classy, rustic charm with its wooden chalets and scenic setting opposite the Massif des Grandes Rousses. Despite its steep streets, Vaujany’s innovative system of lifts and covered escalators makes village exploration effortless, particularly for little legs.
While Vaujany itself doesn’t have ski slopes at its doorstep, it provides easy access to the vast Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine Ski area, encompassing a whopping 250km of slopes. This includes the Montfrais area, renowned for its beginner-friendly nursery slopes and gentle green and blue runs. For those who prioritize a comfortable start and end to their ski day over ski-in, ski-out convenience, Vaujany’s gondola and bubble lifts offer a cozy and scenic ascent to the slopes.
Instructors from Vaujany’s Ecole du Ski Français cater to all skill levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning experience for children and adults alike. The resort’s amenities extend beyond the slopes, with a luxurious leisure center featuring a pool, spa, and indoor ice rink. The village also hosts a range of activities such as movie nights, torchlit skiing, and even husky petting, ensuring entertainment for the whole family.
For dining, the sun terrace at Les Airelles, just above the ski school, is a must-visit, offering delicious local fare. The village’s nightlife might be low-key, but there are cozy bars, like the one at the new V de Vaujany hotel, which even includes a children’s play den.
The skiing experience in Vaujany is diverse, with opportunities to explore neighbouring areas like the bustling Alpe d’Huez or the tranquil villages of Oz en Oisans and Villard-Reculas. These smaller villages offer a more intimate skiing experience and unique attractions like La Bergerie, a renowned slopeside restaurant, and Le Comptoir de Villard, known for its fondue.
Vaujany, with its combination of quaint village charm, extensive skiing options, and family-oriented facilities, offers a unique and memorable ski experience. Whether it’s for a long weekend or a longer stay, families looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation in a serene alpine setting will find Vaujany an ideal choice.