When it comes to ski holidays, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to ski accommodation types, from catered chalets to self-catered apartments. Get it right and it becomes as much a part of the holiday as the skiing itself; get it wrong and you’ll spend the week wishing you were somewhere else. Here’s how the main options stack up.
The main ski accommodation types
Catered chalets
Catered chalets remain the classic choice for a reason. Someone else cooks breakfast and afternoon tea, there’s usually a communal area to swap stories about the day’s skiing, and an all-in price makes budgeting simple. They suit families, groups of friends and anyone who’d rather not think about meal planning after a day on the slopes.
Hotels
Hotels offer more privacy and, often, extras like a spa, pool or on-site ski hire that a chalet can’t match. Board options range from bed and breakfast to full board, so you can decide how much you want built in versus how much freedom you want to explore the local restaurants.
Self-catered apartments
Self-catered apartments give you the most flexibility and, usually, the best value, particularly for larger groups splitting the cost. You set your own timetable, eat when and what you like, and in resorts with good supermarkets or delivery services, self-catering is far less of a chore than it sounds. If you’re travelling with a big family group, our guide to planning a family ski trip has more on getting the logistics right.
Whatever type of stay you choose, a few questions are worth asking before you book: how far is it from the lifts (ski-in/ski-out saves real time and hassle), what’s actually included versus charged as an extra (bed linen, towels, resort fees, ski/boot storage), and does the price include a lift pass or will you need to add one? Many packages bundle a lift pass in, but it’s not universal, so check the small print rather than assume, and look for ABTA or ATOL protection on the booking too.
If you’re new to all this, our beginner’s guide to packing for your first ski trip is a handy companion once you’ve got the accommodation sorted, and if non-skiers are coming along too, take a look at our pick of the best ski resorts for non-skiers for accommodation and resorts with plenty to do off the slopes.
Quick ski accommodation FAQs
What are the main types of ski accommodation?
The three main options are catered chalets, hotels and self-catered apartments, each suited to a different budget and level of hands-off comfort.
Is a lift pass included in ski accommodation packages?
Not always. Many packages bundle a lift pass in, but it’s worth checking the small print rather than assuming, as this varies by operator and property.
What’s the best ski accommodation for a large family or group?
Self-catered apartments or catered chalets tend to work best for larger groups, since costs can be split and the timetable stays flexible.
