Every ski season brings something different and 2025/26 is already shaping up to be an exciting one. Here’s your quick guide to the key travel dates, insider tips, and trends to help you plan the perfect winter holiday.
© L .BROCHOT – OT val Thorens
Christmas & New Year Skiing
With Christmas Day and New Year’s Day both falling on Thursdays, weekend travel works perfectly this year – giving you time to settle in and enjoy the festivities.
The peak holiday period runs 20 December to 3 January, when resorts are busy, prices are high, and availability is limited. For better value and quieter slopes, consider travelling the week of 13 December, when UK private schools break up and prices can be up to 50% lower than over New Year.
Snow-sure resorts such as Tignes, Val Thorens, and Avoriaz are already reporting strong early bookings, so it’s worth securing your accommodation soon.
© Tignes & Andy Parant
Don’t Wait to Book
“One of the strongest trends we’ve seen in the last four decades is skiers booking earlier – often a year or more in advance,” says Laura Hazell of Ski Beat.
“Many clients rebook straight after returning from their trip, and demand for Christmas, New Year and other peak dates in 2025/26 is already strong.”
Booking early ensures the best prices, preferred chalets, and flight times particularly around the busiest weeks in February and March.
Be Ready for Biometric Checks
This winter, UK travellers entering the EU are finally expected to complete biometric registration – including fingerprints and facial scans now at passport control.
The new Entry/Exit System (EES) will be phased in across Europe through the season (until 10 April 2026). Expect longer queues at major airports and border crossings early on.
The good news? Once registered, you’ll regain e-gate-style fast entry for future EU trips. Registration is free but mandatory, and systems may vary depending on your arrival point.
February Half-Term: Book Now
© L .BROCHOT – OT val Thorens
The European holiday calendar starts 7 February, with French school breaks spread across four weeks. The busiest time will be 21–28 February, when Paris, UK, Dutch, and Belgian holidays all overlap.
“Book ASAP to secure your trip – prices will rise as demand builds,” advises Xavier Schouller of Peak Retreats.
The UK half-term week (14–21 February) is already showing tight availability, especially in popular family resorts. Early booking will help you secure the best accommodation, travel options, and lift pass deals.
Week of 21 March 2026: The Best of the Season?
© Tignes-Development
If you’re flexible with dates, many tour operators are calling 21–28 March 2026 the sweet spot of the ski season.
Prices are lower than mid-season, the snowpack is typically at its deepest, and days are longer and sunnier. It’s a great time for quiet slopes, comfortable temperatures, and great value before the Easter rush.
“The sweet spot between great snow and low prices has always been January, but this year, mid to late March – especially the week before Easter – is the cheapest of the whole winter,” says Richard Sinclair of SNO.
Spring & Easter Skiing
© Tignes & Andy Parant
Easter Sunday falls on 5 April 2026, two weeks earlier than last season. That means most UK schools break up from 28 March, with the Easter weekend right in the middle of the holidays – bringing a higher chance of good snow and more resorts staying open.
With French holidays starting later (on Easter weekend itself), 28 March is officially low season in France, making it an ideal week for British skiers to enjoy lower prices and excellent snow.
Top high-altitude resorts like Val Thorens, Tignes, and Les Deux Alpes stay open into May, offering long sunny days, quieter slopes, and the joy of spring skiing in lighter gear.
Plan early, stay flexible, and make the most of winter 2025/26 – from early-December bargains to bluebird days in May. Take a look at our Resort Guide to find your perfect destination.
Main Image © Tignes & Andy Parant
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