December Ski Holiday Deals, christmas ski holidays, where to ski in december

December Ski Chalets

December skiing is where the season truly kicks off – and it’s a cracker.

From early season ski deals to full-on festive magic, December has it all. Resorts come alive with twinkling lights, snowy streets and après that’s full of cheer whether you're arriving before Christmas or ringing in the New Year.

Not sure where to go? We only feature snow-sure, high-altitude resorts across Europe, leaving you to focus on perfect turns and mountain lunches, not whether the snow’s turned up on time.

It’s a special time to hit the slopes with friends or family so don’t hang about. Lock in your December ski holiday now and make the start of winter one to remember. 

Call a Ski Specialist > Send Email Enquiry >

Is December a good time to go skiing?

For sure. December marks the start of the season and the buzz in resort is sky-high. Expect fresh snow, festive spirit, and the first proper turns of winter. Plus, you might even be able to grab a few extra early season deals while in resort if you're in need of some new gear – or grab a few last minute Christmas gifts.

Which ski resorts open early in December?

Snow-sure spots like Tignes, Val Thorens, and Alpe d'Huez are among the first to open – often by late November. They’re perfect if you’re keen to get an early-season ski fix.

Ski Resort Opening & Closing Dates

Based on historic data, these are approximate open and closing dates for the snow-sure resorts we operate in.

Resort Opening Date Closing Date
Alpe d'Huez 30 November 21 April
Courchevel 7 December 21 April
Les Arcs 14 December 26 April
La Plagne 14 December 26 April
Les Deux Alpes 2 December 28 April
Meribel 7 December 21 April
Tignes 23 November 5 May
Val d'Isere 30 November 5 May
Val Thorens 23 November 5 May
St Anton (Austria) 30 November 27 April

What’s the snow like in early December?

It varies depending on altitude, but higher resorts usually have solid cover by the start of the month. Look out for fresh dumps followed by crisp, clear days – ideal skiing conditions.

Estimated Snow Reliability for December Ski Holidays

NB: Snow Coverage = Est. % of Pistes Open Based on Historical Averages

Resort Altitude Range Glacier? Estimated Snow Coverage % Notes
Alpe d'Huez 1,250 – 3,330 m No ~ 80% Stick to high slopes, valley is low
Courchevel 1,300 – 3,230 m No ~ 75% – 80% Lower base; upper slopes reliable
La Plagne 1,250 – 3,250 m Some ~ 80% – 85% Linked with Les Arcs (Paradiski)
Les Arcs 1,200 – 3,226 m Some ~ 80% – 85% Good height; often opens early
Les Deux Alpes 1,650 – 3,600 m Yes ~ 85% Glacier guarantees early season snow
Meribel 1,450 – 2,950 m No ~ 80% Lower than neighbours; stick to high slopes
St Anton 1,300 – 2,800 m No ~ 85% Reliable Austrian snow record
Tignes 1,550 – 3,450 m Yes ~ 90 – 95% Excellent glacier coverage
Val d'Isere 1,850 – 3,450 m Yes ~ 90% + Shares glacier zone with Tignes
Val Thorens 2,300 – 3,230 m No ~ 95% Highest resort in Europe – very reliable

Are catered chalets available in December?

Our standard package includes your flights, transfers, accommodation, chalet board (including breakfast, afternoon tea, and a three-course dinner) and unlimited wine. Plus, if you bag a Ski-All-In bundle, we'll wrap up your ski hire and lift pass in the price meaning less hassle, bigger savings, and more time on the mountain.

Is December skiing suitable for beginners?

Definitely. Slopes are quieter in early December, which is perfect for learning the ropes and finding your ski legs for winter. Plus, many ski schools run group lessons starting from the first week of the season so you won't be left to your own devices. Looking for our dedicated Learn To Ski Weeks? Departing in January and December, our beginner-friendly package includes everything you need to ace your first time on the slopes. 

Do prices go up over Christmas week?

Prices do rise over Christmas and New Year, as demand peaks with the kids off school and the holidays in full swing – but booking early helps you lock in the best deals and biggest choice of chalets and flights.

Can I ski over Christmas week?

Yes, and it’s truly special. Spend Christmas in the mountains with snow-dusted trees, festive feasts, and twinkling lights in resort. There’s nothing quite like waking up on Christmas morning in a winter wonderland. Plus, our chalet hosts will be on hand to take care of Christmas dinner, leaving you to enjoy the day on the slopes and completely out of the the kitchen!

What’s included in a December ski holiday?

Our standard packages include flights, transfers and accommodation though this can be tailored to your specific requirements. Chalet guests will also enjoy cooked breakfasts, afternoon tea, and evening meals with unlimited wine.


All December Chalet Holidays

After early snow or a festive escape? Use the filters to find your perfect December ski break – by resort, dates, grade and more.

Please be aware that prices are based on full occupancy of rooms and apartments. In a small number of cases in hotels and chalets, these may be triple or quadruple rooms.

  • Dining, Chalet Rendl, St Anton

    Chalet Rendl, St Anton, Austria

    Outbound Flight:

    Sat 13th Dec '25 08:15 – 11:00,
    London Gatwick – Friedrichshafen Airport,
    Hold baggage included

    Sat 13th Dec 2025

    2 people, 7 nights,
    Chalet Board

    Price from

    £1,029pp
    £2,058 total party price
    What's included?

    View Details

  • Chalet Valluga, St Anton, Austria

    Outbound Flight:

    Sat 13th Dec '25 08:15 – 11:00,
    London Gatwick – Friedrichshafen Airport,
    Hold baggage included

    Sat 13th Dec 2025

    2 people, 7 nights,
    Chalet Board

    Price from

    £1,069pp
    £2,138 total party price
    What's included?

    View Details

  • Chalet Kapall, St Anton, Austria

    Outbound Flight:

    Sat 13th Dec '25 08:15 – 11:00,
    London Gatwick – Friedrichshafen Airport,
    Hold baggage included

    Sat 13th Dec 2025

    2 people, 7 nights,
    Chalet Board

    Price from

    £1,069pp
    £2,138 total party price
    What's included?

    View Details
  • Exterior, Chalet Monte Vera, St Anton

    Chalet Monte Vera, St Anton, Austria

    Outbound Flight:

    Sat 13th Dec '25 08:15 – 11:00,
    London Gatwick – Friedrichshafen Airport,
    Hold baggage included

    Sat 13th Dec 2025

    2 people, 7 nights,
    Chalet Board

    Price from

    £1,089pp
    £2,178 total party price
    What's included?

    View Details

  • Chalet Bonne Neige, Val d'Isere , France

    Outbound Flight:

    Sun 14th Dec '25 06:30 – 09:25,
    London Gatwick – Grenoble,
    Hold baggage included

    Sun 14th Dec 2025

    8 people, 7 nights,
    Chalet Board

    Price from

    £1,099pp
    £8,792 total party price
    What's included?

    View Details
  • Dining, Chalet Tavaillons, Tignes

    Chalet Tavaillons, Tignes, France

    Outbound Flight:

    Sat 13th Dec '25 06:45 – 09:30,
    London Gatwick – Grenoble,
    Hold baggage included

    Sat 13th Dec 2025

    2 people, 7 nights,
    Chalet Board

    Price from

    £1,119pp
    £2,238 total party price
    What's included?

    View Details
  • Chalet Katalin - Dining Area

    Chalet Katalin, Tignes, France

    Outbound Flight:

    Sun 14th Dec '25 06:30 – 09:25,
    London Gatwick – Grenoble,
    Hold baggage included

    Sun 14th Dec 2025

    2 people, 7 nights,
    Chalet Board

    Price from

    £1,119pp
    £2,238 total party price
    What's included?

    View Details

Save
Best Buy Apartments
Low prices and BIG savings on a hand-picked selection of self-catered ski apartments in top resorts, on almost every departure date of the season, including Sundays.
Grab a Best Buy Apartment Deal Now