With summer a distant memory, now is the time to turn your attention to planning a great ski break from Birmingham Airport. Take your pick from destinations in France, Austria and Slovenia – to name just a few!

Ski getaways can be enjoyed by all, so whether you’re going away with friends, family or just the two of you, there’s a holiday for everyone. Feel invigorated by the fresh mountain air as you sail down the side of beautiful mountains. Relax, let your hair down and get your body moving, it’s what skiing is all about.

FOR FAMILIES

You can’t beat a family skiing holiday over the festive period, enjoying hearty meals and hot chocolate around the fire in a cosy chalet. Even if the kids aren’t yet into skiing, family friendly resorts have a range of childcare options available so you don’t have to miss out on your time on the mountain. There are also ski classes available, divided by ability and age, and delivered by English speaking instructors.

You’ll be going on family runs down the slopes before you know it. Meribel is the perfect resort for your first family ski holiday, located in the world’s biggest interlinked ski area, Three Valleys. The resort has a friendly, village atmosphere and ‘Glaciers’ comes highly recommended as the best bakery to take the kids for some sweet treats.

FOR FRIENDS

The best times are often spent with friends, so why not arrange a group ski holiday for 2018? Enjoy the crisp mountain air and make memories that last a lifetime. Dine on the side of the mountain between runs, sharing cheese fondue and bottles of wine – and let your hair down in the evenings at the best après-ski parties.

The resorts of Mayrhofen and Saalbach in Austria are renowned for not only their nightlife but also their incredible off-piste through the trees, so perfect for intermediate skiers. Saalbach also boasts a new lift and gondola system making it super easy to get up the mountain and between the areas of Leogang and Hinterglemm.

FOR COUPLES

If your other half is looking for more of an active holiday rather than a bit of winter sun, book into a boutique, chalet-style hotel and spend your evenings snuggled around an open fire. Pick one with spa and wellness facilities so you can book in for a couples massage after a long day out on the slopes.

Zermatt is regarded as one of the most romantic and picturesque ski resorts. The chalets are full of character, dotted along narrow streets; and if you’re into music, we recommend visiting during April to enjoy the resort’s annual music festival – Zermatt Unplugged.

FOR NON-SKIERS

If you like the idea of skiing more than the reality, then enjoy a white winter without having to hit the slopes in Arctic Lapland. The landscape is blanketed by snow from November and the Northern Lights can be seen dancing overhead. With unspoiled landscapes as far as the eye can see, explore the twinkling, snow-dipped forests in a snowmobile or aboard a husky sled. There is still the option of trying some cross-country skiing, but you can equally spend your afternoons in a hot tub beside your igloo or traditional log cabin if you want the ultimate relax.