Out & About with kids - Skiing the Globe with kids

SKiiNG with kids THE GLOBE

Snow fun in

First timers in

Innsbruck

Thredbo

The legend of

Aspen Loving

Sun Peaks Jive into

Jackson Hole

AUSTRALIA

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CANADA

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USA

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SWITZERLAND |

JAPAN

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NEWS

Voted one of the BEST International Family Ski Resorts

is the Ultimate Family Ski Destination!

Kids 12 & UNdER sKi, RENt aNd tRaNsfER foR fREE!

Town Plaza Suites

2365*

$

from

per family

Delta Whistler Village Suites

2545*

$

from

per family

The Westin Resort & Spa

3505*

$

from

per family

EARLYBIRD BONUS! 35% OFF ACCOMMODATION + KIDS SKI AND RENT FOR FREE!

EARLYBIRD BONUS! 35% OFF ACCOMMODATION + KIDS SKI AND RENT FOR FREE!^

EARLYBIRD BONUS! 40% OFF ACCOMMODATION + KIDS SKI AND RENT FOR FREE!

Includes: - 7 nights quad share in Two Bedroom Apartment at Town Plaza Suites - 6 day Ski Pass

Includes: - 7 nights quad share in Two Bedroom Suite at Delta Whistler Village Suites - 6 day Ski Pass

Includes: - 7 nights quad share in Two Bedroom Suite at The Westin Resort & Spa - 6 day Ski Pass

*Conditions apply. Valid for travel 22 November – 13 December 2013. Prices are subject to change and availability and may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Book & pay by 30 June 2013. ^Included in package price. Pricing is based on a family consisting of 2 adults and 2 children 12 years and under. Children ski and rent free per paying adult. A credit card fee of minimum 1.5% will apply. Airfares are not included.

Lic No. 2TA4787. Image courtesy of Whistler Blackcomb. Photo credit: Paul Morrison.

contents

Big White

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38

8

Ski News Australasia

29 J ackson Hole, USA

10 Thredbo

SA resort report 32 U

12 Australia resort report

34 Sun Peaks, Canada

16 Coronet Peak and The Remarkables

36 Whistler, Canada

ew Zealand resort 18 N report ki News International 22 S spen, Colorado 24 A

28 Big Sky, USA

anada resort report 37 C

38 I nnsbruck, Austria witzerland resort 42 S report

44 Niseko, Japan 46 J apan resort report WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Publisher Elisa Elwin elisa@oawk.com.au 0413 770 550 Snow & Ski Editor Helen Hayes helen@hayestack.com Editor-in-Chief Aleney de Winter aleney@oawk.com.au National Sales Manager Colleen Hinch colleen.hinch@gmail.com Falls Creek

W

hat is it about being in the snow that is so magical? Whatever it is, it is clear that taking the family on a holiday to the snow will create memories that will last a lifetime, and maybe even lead to a family tradition. Throw a snowball. Make a snowman. Slide on a toboggan. Go for a snowshoe walk. And of course, book your little ones into snow school to learn to ski, and when they are a bit older, let them try snowboarding. Do it in your home state. Try it in New Zealand, and then, when you truly have the bug, go overseas and enjoy that heady mix of different culture with amazing snow. We have come up with a selection of ski resorts in Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Canada, Austria, Switzerland and Japan that are family friendly, fun filled and fabulous. Which one will be right for you?

Helen Hayes Snow & Ski Editor

GET ON SNOW THE FAST WAY, WITH SNOW PASS.

The work is there all year. The snow isn’t. Save time with Snow Pass, jump online to buy your lift passes, lessons and hire, all before you leave home.

Start planning your getaway now. With 5 day adult lift passes less than $92 per day and 5 day kids passes under $46 per day, there’s no excuse not to.

chuckasnowie.com.au

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WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Design Magnesium Media Published by Elwin Media Pty Ltd 50a Central Avenue, Mosman NSW 2088 0413 770 550 Cover image Aspen Snowmass/ Jeremy Swanson Disclaimer The opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher. Information provided was believed to be correct at the time of publication.

Copyright © Out & About with Kids 2013 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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email ski@travelplan.com.au visit www.travelplan.com.au WINTER 2013 5

Offices in Sydney and Melbourne. NSW Licence No 2TA000270 and VIC Licence No 30167. www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

SK I T HE WORLD WIT H K ID S

local KEEPING IT

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WINTER 2013

Mount Buller www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

B

eing able to leave home and be on the snow in five or six hours, makes a snow holiday in Australia or New Zealand very appealing – especially for first timers.

In Australia, the major ski resorts are in New South Wales or Victoria, while in New Zealand, the big guns are mostly on the South Island. Ski in Australia and you can stay on the snow if you choose to, meaning less lugging, more time on the slopes and easy access to a nap, snack or chill-out time in front of a DVD. Or you might prefer a town nearby.

In New Zealand, most of the big resorts don’t have accommodation on site, but the big plus is that you can

enjoy places like Queenstown, Wanaka or Methven, with a broad scope of family accommodation, scenery that will leave you breathless and dining options.

Hire your gear in your home city or rent it on mountain.

That way, if something needs to be adjusted or swapped, you can have it done in an instant. Always rent a helmet for every member of your family – including adults.

Book lessons for your children and if you can’t ski, it’s never too late to learn. You will never regret it – the thrill of skiing or snowboarding together as a family will create stronger bonds and memories that will be treasured forever.

The wonderful world of snow awaits and you don’t have to go that far to embrace it.

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SK I NEWS - AUS T RA L IA & N Z

Fabulous deals at Falls Creek Falls Creek has many exceptional properties for families including Feathertop Lodge, Trackers Lodge, Ropers Apartments and Pretty Valley Lodge, to name a few. They all offer family-friendly packages and a wonderful snow experience. Pretty Valley Lodge has packages including two nights in accommodation that sleeps four-six, with breakfast, lunch and dinner daily as well as ski or snowboard rental and jacket, pants and helmet hire. Feathertop Lodge has some great deals for early in the season while Trackers, rated by Trip Advisor as the number one alpine property in Falls Creek, also has an early season deal for a three-night package. Ropers Apartments has a deal in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment from 22-29 June that includes ski and ski gear hire. www.feathertoplodge.com.au; www.prettyvalley.com; www.trackers.com.au; www.ropersapartments.com.au

Trying Interschools For kids that love skiing or snowboarding, the Interschools SnowSports Championships allows them to compete for their school. And everyone from beginners to advanced can participate. There are seven disciplines, Alpine, Skiercross, Freestyle Moguls, Snowboard Giant Slalom, Snowboard Cross, Cross-Country Relay and Freestyle, with kids from Year 4-12 taking part.

Major events this year include the Queensland Ski and Snowboard Championships at Perisher on 27 June, the South Australian Championships on 17-18 July, the Victorian Snowsports Championships at Mt Buller from 18-25 August, the NSW State Championships at Perisher from 22-25 August and the Australian Champsionships at Mt Buller from 4-8 September. www.interschools.org.au

A Jucy deal in New Zealand JUCY Rentals has a great deal for families wishing to ski in New Zealand and hire a car. For every JUCY car hired in New Zealand for travel from June 27 to September 29, 2013, JUCY will throw in a free six-day adult ski pass to Treble Cone.

JUCY has a great range of vehicles for hire from Queenstown, Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin and offer a friendly, reliable service with vehicles available for hire from only $25 (NZD) per day. Just pay attention when they show the video on how to put chains on or you might find yourself in a spot of bother.

Call 1800 150 850 or visit www.jucy.co.nz. Terms and Conditions apply.

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WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Flexi Fun at Cardrona A snow holiday can be tiring for kids, with some not quite able to cope with a full day in ski school.

Cardrona understands the need for parents to be flexible so has launched a new Flexi Fun package this season. Flexi Fun allows parents to choose either a morning, or an afternoon ski lesson for their child or children, and can then take them back to their accommodation for a nap, or even just spend some time together on the slopes.

Cardrona has everything covered for children with four dedicated kids centres catering for kids of all ages. There is even a ski slope just for under five’s with a magic carpet. The nursery takes children from three months and kids can learn to ski from the age of three.

Find out more about the Flexi Fun package at www.cardrona.com

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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TH REDBO

ABSOLUTE

beginners WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

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WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

W

e arrive at Thredbo Village just as tiny white flakes of snow start to fall from the sky. My kids, who have never before seen snow, are mesmerised by the sight of the frosty ice fairies dancing magically about us as we drive to our digs for the weekend, The Denman.

As the fabulous Toyota Landcruiser that we’ve been loaned for our first ever family ski weekend (no need for chains with this baby) pulls up outside the inviting boutique hotel, my fouryear old son flings himself out of the door and dives straight into the nearest pile of fresh snow.

Leaving him flailing about like a mad thing with his just as excited dad, I take my 18-month old snow bunny, Marlo, to check out the spectacular views of the icy mountain. Wow. After checking in to our warm and inviting two-bedroom suite, we tug on our après ski boots to walk the short distance to get kitted up for tomorrow’s mountainside mission, stopping every thirty seconds for Raffles to chuck another snowball at his dad, something he’s been waiting for since the second he discovered we were heading to the snow. Already ridiculously excited, the hire shop sends my pre-schooler over the edge. As he’s fitted for his boots, he stomps about in a frenzy squealing, “Look Mummy, I have robot feet. I’m a Transformer.”

We head back with our kit in tow to enjoy an amazing dinner at the Denman’s awardwinning Terrace Restaurant before we hit the sack ready for tomorrow’s big adventure.

Learning to fly We awake on Saturday morning to clear blue skies, sparkling icicles hanging from the awnings and a heavy carpet of fresh white snow. The conditions couldn’t be more perfect if we’d ordered them. As we collect our kit to head for the mountain Rafferty is giddy. But I am nervous.

It’s been 20 years since either my husband or I have been skiing, so we’re almost beginners ourselves. Am I really about to do this again?

With a four-year old?

We drop Marlo of at Thredbo’s fantastic childcare centre and head to Friday Flat and The Kids Only Headquarters at Thredboland, the renowned ski school for skiers and boarders aged three to six, where Raffles will enjoy his first ski lesson. The program offers full supervision, hot lunch and lessons in the safe confines of Wombat World.

Leaving our little snowman to it, we head onto Friday Flat to meet our own private ski instructor who soon has us flying down the slopes as if it had been two weeks and not two decades between drinks.

My husband I head higher and higher up the mountain and come down faster and faster, all fear out the window. We both become so cocky that we’re practically ready to try out for the next winter Olympics. Until the moment that my

Rafferty & his snowman husband has been waiting for all day and I become airborne, landing legs akimbo at his feet.

He is so jubilant that I consider pushing him off the chair lift on our next run.

Snow much fun Instead I dust off my bruised ego and head over to check on Rafferty’s progress. It’s astonishing how fast children pick up skiing.

He’s already learned to balance and control his skis and is on his (very slow) way. And he loves it!

His confidence has skyrocketed and as we take our last run for the day with our little man he is convinced that he can do anything.

Tired but happy from our day on the snow, we reward ourselves with hot chocolate and hot sugary donuts on the way to collect our little snowflake from the childcare centre, where she’s had a marvellous time.

We stuff her into her Michelin-man snowsuit for a little family frolic time in the snow. Snowballs are flung, angels are made and a giant snowman built. Marlo squeals and our newly minted powderhound declares it the best day. Ever!

But it’s not over yet. We head back to the Denman for dinner and a fantastic view of fireworks exploding over the mountain. We watch on in delight as hundred of skiers with lit flares create a river of red light that snakes down the mountain … yet another enchanting sight in a weekend full of magical moments.

While we’re a little more blistered and bruised than when we arrived, we’re heading home a family converted. Totally.

arlo

Snow bunny M

MORE INFORMATION: www.thredbo.com.au www.the denman.com.au

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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A U ST RALIA

heroes AUSTRALIAN

AUSTRALIA IS BLESSED WITH WORLD-CLASS SNOWFIELDS, AND HERE IS OUR RESORT REPORT TO HELP YOU CHOOSE WHICH IS BEST FOR YOUR FAMILY.

NSW Charlotte Pass

The highest village in Australia, Charlotte Pass is a tiny slice of alpine paradise accessible by oversnow transport. It is very well set up for families and is not as busy as some of the other resorts.

Elevation: 1765m Location: Eight kms from Perisher Terrain mix: 30% beginner; 50% intermediate; 20% advanced Number of lifts: Six Terrain Park: Two Snow Sports School: Lessons for kids aged from age three Child care: Crèche for ages three and up Accommodation: On snow Other activities: Snowshoe tours, groomer tours and First Tracks Highlight: The intimate resort is just right for families with young children Website: www.charlottepass.com.au

Charlotte Pass

Perisher Four resorts – Blue Cow, Guthega, Perisher and Smiggin Holes – means lots of different terrain for everyone from beginner to advanced. There are so many wonderful areas to explore as kids improve their skills.

Elevation: 2054m Location: Six hours from Sydney Terrain mix: 22% beginner, 60% intermediate and 18% advanced Number of lifts: 47 Terrain Park: Seven plus two half pipes Snow Sports School: Group ski lessons from age three and snowboard from age six Child care: Crèche from six weeks Accommodation: On snow or in Jindabyne Other activities: Tubing, First Tracks, night skiing and tobogganing Highlight: The expanse of terrain and the MyRide reloadable e-ticketing system Website: www.perisher.com.au

Skiing at Perisher

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WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Selwyn Snowfields

Thredbo

Selwyn is a great place to start your snowy experience if you have never, ever stepped foot on skis before. Ticket and lift prices are good value and the snow sports school is terrific.

Begin your winter tradition with Selwyn.

Elevation: 1614m Location: 2.5 hours drive from Canberra Terrain mix: 40% beginner; 48% intermediate; 12% advanced Number of lifts: 11 Terrain Park: Two Snow Sports School: Lessons for kids from three years Child care: For kids over 18 months Accommodation: Off snow, in Adaminaby or Talbingo with several farmstays also available - always a good option for kids.

Other activities: Toboggan, snowplay and tube park Highlight: Fabulous for beginners Website: www.selwynsnow.com.au

Thredbo, with its charming village and big choice of onsnow accommodation is numero uno with many snow bunnies.

And then there is the amazing terrain. Friday Flat is exceptional for beginners and, combined with Thredboland, ensures kids learn fast and have a blast.

Elevation: 2037m Location: Just over six hours from Sydney Terrain mix: 16% beginner; 67% intermediate; 17% advanced Number of lifts: 14 Terrain Park: Four Snow Sports School: Ski lessons from three years old and snowboard from seven. Offers private lessons for younger kids.

Child care: For kids from six months Accommodation: On snow Other activities: Water slide and fun aquatic features at the Thredbo Leisure Centre Highlight: The Flare run, kids flare run at Friday Flat and the village vibe Website: www.thredbo.com.au

Thredbo

QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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A U ST RALIA

VIC Falls Creek

Mount Baw Baw Just two and half hours from Melbourne, Mount Baw Baw is a quiet achiever with great skiing and snowboarding, on-snow accommodation and plenty of activities to keep kids busy including dog-sled tours.

Elevation: 1562m Location: 2.5 hours from Melbourne Terrain mix: 25% beginner; 64% intermediate; 11% advanced Number of lifts: Eight Terrain Park: Three Snow Sports School: Ski lessons from four and snowboard from seven Child care: No

Hotham

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WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Š Charlie Brown Photography

Falls Creek has some of the best beginner terrain in Australia, with Wombat Ramble the longest green run in the country. It also has terrain for experienced skiers and plenty for those who like to jump, ride and rock.

Elevation: 1780m Location: 4.5 hours from Melbourne Terrain mix: 17% beginner; 60% intermediate; 23% advanced Number of lifts: 15 Terrain Park: Four Snow Sports School: Lessons from age three for skiing and six for snowboarding Child care: Available from 12 weeks Accommodation: On snow Other activities: Snow biking, snowshoeing, bungy tramp, Snow dragon shows, night skiing, tobogganing and snow bocce.

Highlight: The range of activities and the Night Show Spectacular.

Website: www.skifalls.com.au

Falls Creek

Accommodation: On snow Other activities: Dog sled tours, snowshoeing, snowmobile rides and tobogganing Highlight: The Big Air jump is sick for teens Website: www.mountbawbaw.com.au

Mount Buller Buller Central is currently under construction and will be open for business by winter. It is right in the heart of the Village Square, and will contain mid-range hotel style accommodation, apartments, the Powder Bar and retail space.

Elevation: 1780m

Location: Three hours from Melbourne Terrain mix: 20% beginner; 45% intermediate; 35% advanced Number of lifts: 22 Terrain Park: Three plus a half pipe Snow Sports School: Ski lssons from three and snowboard from six Child care: From three months.

Accommodation: On snow Other activities: Gnome Roam, two toboggan parks, snowshoeing, Highlight: Night skiing and the Gnome Roam Website: www.mtbuller.com.au

Hotham

Mt Baw Baw

With the village on top of the mountain the views from everywhere are spectacular, and the skiing and snowboarding is just as good. Fly in to Dinner Plain with Qantaslink to save time and allow more runs on the mountain.

Elevation: 1845m Location: 4.5 hours from Melbourne Terrain mix: 20% beginner; 40% intermediate; 40% advanced Number of lifts: 13 (incl.

Dinner Plain) Terrain Park: Four Snow Sports School: Kids can learn from three years and snowboard from six.

Child care: From three months Accommodation: On snow Other activities: Dog sledding at Dinner Plain, kids snowmobile rides, kat skiing Highlight: The Harry the Snow Dragon show Website: www.hotham.com.au

Lake Mountain Alpine Resort For families who have never seen snow, or don’t want to commit to a ski holiday without some snowplay first, visit Lake Mountain.

Hire some gear, frolic in the snow and even try cross country skiing.

Elevation: 1480m Location: Two hours from Melbourne Terrain mix: All cross country - 16% beginner; 67% intermediate; 17% advanced Number of lifts: 0 Terrain Park: 0 Snow Sports School: Yes Child care: No Accommodation: In Marysville Other activities: Tobogganing, snow sculptures, snowshoeing Highlight: Over 30 kms of cross country trails to explore Website: www.lake mountainresort.com.au

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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CAS E S T UDY - NE W ZE A L A N D

Queenstown © Patrick Fallon

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Coronet Peak

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mountain while the kids ski4free

only one hour from christchurch international airport is where kids 10 years and under stay, eat and ski for free*.

early learning centreS 3 months – 5 years.

School holiday ProgrammeS 5 – 15 years.

Full and half day options available.

Find out about the big mountain at

*kids 10 yrs & under also get free airport transfers & daily mountain transfers. Go to www.kids4free.co.nz for all the info and participating businesses.

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WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

1/03/13 4:46 PM

A QUEENSTOWN SNOW HOLIDAY OFFERS THE PICK OF TWO AMAZING SKI FIELDS – CORONET PEAK AND THE REMARKABLES. THE HAYES FAMILY TESTED OUT BOTH. We chose Queenstown because … it is like living in a postcard and when you’re not skiing or snowboarding at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables there is so much else to do.

Remarkables, we explored all three areas, had a ball in the Ozone Tube Park and, while the boys tackled the world-class terrain parks, we sat on the sunny deck to admire the view.

The skifields were … amazing.

We would choose which place we were going to ski at in the morning, depending on weather, and drive up. Coronet Peak is only 20 minutes from town and The Remarkables about 45 minutes.

Our top tip is … to register online for the MyPass e-ticket which allows you to purchase lift tickets, rental gear and lessons before you leave.

Put your card in a ski jacket pocket and say goodbye to the old style paper tickets and time-wasting scanning. You can top up the card anytime and even check out how far you have skied.

The Remarkables

More information: www.nzski.com

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The kids loved … the parks at The Remarks and the Night Skiing at Coronet.

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The snow was … incredible. Coronet Peak has a really modern base and eight lifts, leading to terrain that has something for everyone. We loved zooming down the M1 and did a lot of runs off Greengates Express. At

The best bit was … the whole Queenstown experience. The snow, the skiing and snowboarding, the fantastic family dining choices and the scenery.

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We stayed at …The Rees, in a stunning two-bedroom apartment.

It was brilliant for the kids and we loved the beautiful view over the lake and The Remarkables range.

They had a ski report posted early each day.

1/03/13 4:01 PM

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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NEW ZEALAND

Southern STARS

THERE’S SOME GREAT SKIING ACROSS THE DITCH BUT WHERE’S THE BEST SPOT FOR YOUR FAMILY ON THE SOUTH ISLAND? HERE IS A GUIDE TO HELP YOU DECIDE. Cardrona

Cardrona

Mt Hutt

Cardrona has something for everyone with wide, groomed runs, world-class child care and snowschool, terrain parks and challenging blacks.

Elevation: 1860m Location: 35 minutes from Wanaka, an hour from Queenstown Terrain mix: 20% beginner; 55% intermediate; 25% advanced Number of lifts: Seven Terrain Park: Three plus two half pipes, a superpipe and Gravity X course Snow Sports School: Yes. Ski lessons from three years and snowboard from five years.

Child care: From three months Accommodation: There are 15 apartments on-snow or you can stay in Wanaka Highlight: The four separate kids centres and dedicated under five’s slope with its own magic carpet Website: www.cardrona.com

The drive to Mt Hutt gives jaw-dropping views over the Canterbury Plains.Once there, families are spoilt with the range of terrain for all levels.

Elevation: 2086m Location: 35 minutes from Methven or an hour from Christchurch Terrain mix: 25% beginner; 50% intermediate; 25% advanced Number of lifts: Four Terrain Park: One half pipe and two terrain parks Snow Sports School: Yes. Ski lessons from age three or snowboard from eight Child care: From three months Accommodation: In Methven Highlight: The kids under ten ski, stay and eat free program through Methven. www.kids4free.co.nz Website: www.nzski.com/mthutt

Coronet Peak

The closest ski area to Christchurch, Porters is a family-focused ski area with a complete range of ski and snowboard terrain. They have really good family packages for all levels and BIG plans.

Definitely one to watch.

Elevation: 1980m Location: One hour from Christchurch Terrain mix: 30% beginner; 30% intermediate; 40% advanced Number of lifts: Five Terrain Park: One Snow Sports School: Yes, with lessons for kids from age four Child care: No Accommodation: Lodge-style accommodation at the base, or stay in Castle Hill Village, Methven or Christchurch.

Coronet Peak is the closest skifield to Queenstown and delivers a world-class snow experience with great facilities, amazing terrain and top instructors.

Elevation: 1649m Location: 20 minutes from Queenstown Terrain mix: 25% beginner; 45% intermediate; 30% advanced Number of lifts: Eight Terrain Park: Yes Snow Sports School: Yes Child care: From three mths Accommodation: Queenstown Dining: Four restaurants Highlight: So close to Queenstown and has night skiing Friday and Saturday Website: www.nzski.com/coronet

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Mt Hutt

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Porters

Porters

Highlight: Kids under seven ski for free Website: www.skiporters.co.nz

The Remarkables This ski field lives up to its name, tucked away in a basin in the lofty heights of The Remarkables Range. Don’t miss the view from the Lookout.

Elevation: 1943m Location: 45 minutes from Queenstown Terrain mix: 30% beginner; 40% intermediate; 30% advanced Number of lifts: Seven Terrain Park: Three plus half pipe Snow Sports School: Yes Child care: From three months Accommodation: Queenstown Highlight: The terrain parks and the Ozone Tubing Park Website: www.nzski.com/remarkable

Treble Cone Treble Cone has a wonderful vibe about it; it’s super friendly and the skiing and boarding in the two basins is sensational – especially if you are experienced. The ski school instructors have that x factor that works with kids and the views are divine.

Watch out for those naughty keas!

Elevation: 2088m Location: 35 minutes from Wanaka Terrain mix: 10% beginner; 45% intermediate; 45% advanced Number of lifts: Four Terrain Park: Two Snow Sports School: Yes, kids can ski from age three and snowboard from age six Child care: From three years Accommodation: In Wanaka Highlight: The terrain. It’s awesome.

Website: www.treblecone.com

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rona ww.Card w book e it s tal, or to r kid’s n u re o , t s u e o s Check r lift pas t either: buy you to , n o ee u s a ti s a d n rm a fo e in fun, com For more eaps of h r fo in s your kid ,

town Q u ee n s t, S r e v aka 35 Shoto St, Wan e r o m n u or 18 D oM rona.c d r a .c www

www.onepassnz.com

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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world SK I T HE WORLD WIT H K ID S

THE

WINTER 2013 20 Snowmass

www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

AWAITS

I

ntroduce your children to another culture, different foods, new languages and exotic friends while enjoying all that is good about an international snow holiday.

Skiing in the Northern Hemisphere means that we get to enjoy it in our longer, summer school holidays, so there is no rushing – you can have two or three weeks in the snow and still have plenty of time to come back and let your kids enjoy carefree summer days with their besties.

Choose to ski in Canada or in the USA hotspots of Utah, California, Colorado or Wyoming. In Europe, take your pick of Austria, Switzerland, France or Italy and in Asia you can choose

one of many amazing resorts in Japan, where the snow is as deep as the culture is rich.

If you are not sure where to go, contact one of the fabulous ski travel agencies such as Travelplan, Skimax, Mogul Ski World, SkiJapan.com, Deep Powder Tours or Mecca Travel Co and let their experts guide you. They can bundle packages up to include accommodation, lift tickets and ski and snowboard lessons, which can save you a packet. The earlier you book, the better the price.

So whether you want your snow trip combined with sushi, s’mores or fondue, the experience will be unbeatable and the time with your children, unforgettable.

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SK I NEWS - INT ERN A T IO N A L

Club Med opens new resort in Italy Club Med’s new mountain resort, the Pragelato Vialattea Resort, opened its doors in December, delivering Club Med’s sensational all-inclusive snow holiday to the Italian Alps. Located in the Piedmont region, near Sestriere and Turin, the Pragelato Vialattea is in the heart of the Vialattea, which has 400 kms of terrain to explore.

There are 20 clusters of chalets around the resort centre containing premium family accommodation and exceptional facilities. Club Med’s all-inclusive policy ensures you know what you are paying for, and with the various kids club options, caring for kids from babies to teens, every member of your family will have a ball.

Skiing and snowboarding lessons are also included, as are lift tickets and ski rental. When the kids are not skiing, they’ll want to be swimming in the indoor heated pool. www.clubmed.com.au

Early bird gets to Sun Peaks with Travelplan

Families flock to Japan

Travelplan, one of Australia’s favourite snow holiday specialists, has some excellent early bird specials for Sun Peaks in Canada, with up to 25% off a seven-night holiday.

Travelplan can arrange snow holidays to ski destinations around the world, including France, USA, Italy, Argentina, Switzerland, Japan and Canada, and with over 15 years in the business, you can rely on their staff to give you the right advice for your family trip.

Two of the best family properties in Sun Peaks are Nancy Greene’s Cahilty Lodge and Delta Sun Peaks Resort, and Travelplan is offering great discounts for both these properties. Located in the intimate and charming Sun Peaks village, both properties are ski-in, ski-out and both have excellent restaurants and family accommodation. www.travelplan.com.au

Australian families headed to Japan in record numbers over the northern winter, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization.

In fact, in January alone, a total of 31,700 Australians visited Japan - a record.

This resurgence is due to perfect powder conditions and a strong Australian dollar compared to the yen. Check out these hot deals and head to Japan next winter.

• Skimax has a package to Niseko on the northern island of Hokkaido. The package includes seven nights in a standard twobedroom apartment at Youtei Tracks for a family of two adults and two children under 12, and a six-day lift pass per person. Priced at $4355 per family. Conditions Apply. www. skimax.com.au • SkiJapan.com has a package to Nozawa Onsen for two adults and two children (6-15 yrs).

Including seven nights at Yoyado Jon Nobi in the heart of the resort, shared taxi transfers from Narita, breakfasts and six-day lift passes (out of ten) per person. Priced from $4509.

Conditions Apply. www.skijapan.com • Deep Powder Tours Ski Holidays has a package to Rusutsu on the island of Hokkaido.

The package includes seven nights quad share at the Rusutsu Resort Hotel North/ South Wing for two adults and two children under 13, breakfast, return airport transfers and six-day lift passes. Priced from $3110.

Conditions Apply. www.deeppowdertours.com

Ski the World with Mogul Ski

Big White

Rachelle Matheson at Mogul Ski World has taken her kids all over the globe since they were old enough to step into skis. For families wanting to ski overseas for the first time, Rachelle recommends Snowmass in Colorado, Whistler and Big White in Canada, because everything is so easy for families and there are plenty of beginner and intermediate slopes to help your kids progress. Rachelle also names Courchevel in France, saying it has one of the best ski schools she has ever seen.

For more experienced families, who have been overseas skiing before, Rachelle rates Wyoming’s Jackson Hole and Verbier in France very highly, and adds Whistler into the mix, saying it really has something for everyone.

Mogul Ski World has over 30 years experience helping families get the best out of their snow holiday, for information visit www.mogulski.com.au

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PARK CI TY

Ten great family things to do at

PARK CITY 1

Race down the Alpine Coaster at Park City Mountain Resort just like a mini roller coaster with views over Park City.

2

A family sleigh ride to dinner at Fireside Dining at Empire Lodge in Deer Valley - a delicious selection of gourmet meals served from open stone fireplaces.

3

Great fun for everyone at Daly’s Pub in the beautiful Montage Deer Valley with a bowling alley, vintage arcade games, wood-fired pizza. The Montage is simple magnificent.

4

Follow the adventures of the Snowbugs hiding in the trees near the Adventure Alleys on Park City Mountain Resort.

Download the colouring in book on the website before you leave home.

5

Get your Interschool training up to speed at the new Alpine Race Camp at Park City Mountain Resort - where the USA Ski and Snowboard team trains. This is a two-week training camp with an optional 3rd week throughout the January school holidays.

6

Explore the three terrain parks at Canyons and let the kids tackle the Pinball Alley and Tunnel of Fun halfpipes.

7

Enrol the kids into the ski school programs on offer at Deer Valley, Park City Mountain Resort and Canyons. Excellent programs for various age groups and abilities.

8

Watch the best aerial and mogul skiers in the world compete at the annual FIS Freestyle Ski World Cup in Deer Valley – January 9-11, 2014.

9

Tubing at Gorgoza Park in Park City and then stroll through historic Main Street.

10

Go on the Zip Tour at Canyons – fly high and take in the sights as you zip down from Lookout Cabin to Red Pine Lodge.

www.visitparkcity.com

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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A SPEN

TAKING A SHINE TO

Aspen

WITH FOUR MOUNTAINS TO SKI ON, A BEAUTIFUL TOWN WITH EVERYTHING FROM FIVESTAR PROPERTIES AND RESTAURANTS TO FIVE-DOLLAR PIZZAS AND SCENERY THAT INSPIRED MANY A JOHN DENVER SONG, ASPEN IS ONE OF THE GREAT PLACES TO SKI IN THE WORLD. HELEN HAYES WAS LUCKY ENOUGH TO CHECK IT OUT.

A

spen is a charming village in the Roaring Fork Valley at the bottom of Aspen Mountain and surrounded by some of Colorado’s most breathtaking scenery. The town is awesome for window shopping with a swag of highend boutiques and galleries plus shops that sell good value ski gear, cool bric-a-brac and cowboy gear.

The restaurant scene is just as diverse, from swanky Matsuhisa and its incredible sushi to pizza places and burger joints. Some nights you won’t even want dinner, because the après ski scene is so out of this world and great for kids who need an early night.

This place has serious star power. MIchelle Obama and her kids were in Aspen the week before us.

Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffiths have a house there and head up Aspen Mountain on their own snowmobile. Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch are regulars with their brood, and James and Erica Packer were rumoured to have been in town this season too, along with Mariah Carey and Jimmy Barnes. But don’t think it’s just for celebrities or billionaires; Aspen has something for everyone.

Four mountains of fun Buttermilk is the ideal place to start your Aspen snow experience as it has a stack of beginner and intermediate terrain. For kids that love rails and jumps, the run down Teaser is a dream and for experts, Buttermilk Park has jumps to make mums go pale.

Kids as young as two and a half can learn to ski here and kids five plus can learn snowboarding. Make sure you take them to Fort Frog, a western-style fort with trails designed just for kids!!

Aspen Mountain is for intermediates and advanced skiers and, with an elevation of 3,418 metres, gives a bird eye view of the soaring peaks that are the norm in Colorado. There are many fabulous runs with our favourites Ruthie’s and the runs around Ajax Express. We book in for First Tracks one morning, and are blessed with blue skies

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WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

and amazing snow. Our first run down Copper is so good we are almost delirious with joy, and can’t get the smiles off our faces as we head back up in the Silver Queen Gondola. For something different, we try snowshoeing at lunch time, and step into another world of tranquillity and bliss. Kids from the age of seven are welcome and our guide is really engaging as he talks about the mountain, the silver mining days and points out Antonio Banderas’s house, way down in the distance.

Aspen Highlands is the highest of the mountains, hitting 3,559 metres at the top of the advanced-only Highland Bowl. There is some wonderful beginner terrain at Highlands but I marvel at the number of small kids who rocket past me on the blues and blacks. Incredible. If the kids are in ski school, and you have some child-less time, take the chance to book in for lunch at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro. The food is awesome – we enjoy raclette that we cook on our table – and before long, the music turns up and people are dancing on the table. Seriously!

Snowmass, about 15 minutes’ drive from Aspen, is bigger than the other three mountains combined, has the best snowsports school and children’s centre I have ever seen and a huge range of ski-in, ski-out accommodation.

The Treehouse Kids Adventure Center caters for kids from eight weeks old with ski lessons starting at two and a half. There are separate themed areas for various ages, such as the Bear Den, for kids aged two and three as well as a rock climbing wall and puppet show theatre. There’s a covered magic carpet for beginners and then they progress to the Skycab lift, which links the Village Base with the Village Mall. There’s also Elk Camp Meadows, accessed by Gondola, which takes learners away from the busy base. The skiing and boarding is as good as it gets and we love exploring the runs around the Big Burn, Alpine Springs and Sheer Bliss.

Ski down Aspen Mountain to the town of Aspen, with The Little Nell located at the base

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Left: Even little kids love powder Right: A chairlift to heaven at Snowmass

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE United Airlines flies daily from Melbourne and Sydney to LA or San Francisco, with convenient connections to Aspen. www.united.com WHERE TO STAY Aspen: The Little Nell is famous for its service and is the only ski-in, ski-out hotel in Aspen. www.thelittlenell.com Snowmass: The Westin Snowmass is impressive for families and you can walk straight out onto the slopes. www.westinsnowmass.com MORE INFORMATION Aspen Snowmass www.aspensnowmass.com Colorado Ski Country www.ColoradoSki.com.

26

Vikings by night at Snowmass Snowmass is ideal for families due to the convenience of on snow accommodation, the incredible terrain for people of all levels and the abundance of things for kids to see and do.

One of the highlights for families is Ullr Nights, held every Friday night from late December to the end of March to pay tribute to the Ullr, the Norse God of Snow. Catch the Gondola up to Elk Camp Meadows and then let your little Vikings run amuck doing the slide on the Viking Ghost Ship, sledding or tubing down the special runs, riding a snowbike, going ice skating or going snowshoeing.. There is also a massive bonfire, where kids can toast marshmallows and sip on hot chocolate, before heading down to dinner at the new Elk Camp Restaurant.

The Little Nell To top off our Aspen experience, we stayed at The Little Nell, the only ski-in, ski-out hotel in Aspen, situated at the bottom of Aspen Mountain next to the Silver Queen Gondola.

When magazines around the world talk about the world’s best hotels, The Little Nell is always there, and deservedly so. From the moment you are picked up from the airport, the service is sublime. Your children will be treated like VIPs, and you can ask for everything from rattles to infant bathtubs, car seats to children’s robes,, stuffed animals, DVD players, PlayStation 3 and more. Theski concierge will do everything except ski for you, from organising ski school for the kids, storing and preparing your skis and snowboards, placing them outside for

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

© Helen Hayes

© Beige Jones

A SPEN

you, helping the kids get into their gear and welcoming you all with hot chocolate and cookies when you return.

As for the rooms and suites, they are exceptional, and if your children are partial to snitching things from the mini bar, don’t worry – it is all complimentary – except for the alcohol.

Fabulous facts about Aspen Snowmass • There are designated Family Runs at Buttermilk and Snowmass • Giant mammoth and mastodon bones were found at Snowmass by accident in 2010 with 4,826 bones dug up and sent to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

Check out the Snowmass Ice Age Discovery Center in Snowmass Mall – kids can touch a mastadon tooth, see a mammoth skeleton and learn all about the big dig • Australians are the number one international market into Aspen Snowmass • There are a number of shrines hidden on Aspen Mountain for people including Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, John Denver and Jerry Garcia • The Ute Indians lived here thousands of year ago and called it the ‘Shining Mountains’ • Aspen is home to ski legend Klaus Obermeyer, who invented the ski jacket. He is 93 and still skis most days.

Ski 14 days pay 8 SENSATIONAL FAMILY SKI DEALS ON LIFT PASSES, LESSONS AND RENTAL Experience unlimited ‘Colorado’ quality snow across four mountains – plus all the shopping, dining, nightlife, activities and people spotting which make Aspen/Snowmass a unique holiday experience! Travelplan Ski is the world’s #1 international ski wholesaler to Aspen/Snowmass.

EARLY BIRD SPECIALS Be quick to secure the best early bird specials with up to 8 days FREE skiing, accommodation deals, and amazing ski airfares!

Early booking and conditions apply to all offers. > Lift passes and rental – ski 8 days pay 7, ski 14 days pay 8, ski 20 days pay 12! > Adults/Kids Lessons – buy 8 days get 14 > Up to 20% off hotels and apartments

CRESTWOOD SNOWMASS PACKAGE

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From per adult, $1,139 per child in January 2014.

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Based on Early Bird upgrade and Stay 7 Pay 6. Book by Nov 1.

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$1449

From per adult, $1,199 per child in January 2014.

2 Bedroom Standard Apartment – 4 share.

Based on Early Bird offer 15% off. Book by Aug 31.

ASPEN SQUARE PACKAGE

Includes 7 nights’ accommodation, 6 day lift pass, Resort Host and Welcome Cocktail Party, local taxes.

Some blackouts may apply. Subject to availability and conditions apply. Costs valid as at 3 May 2013.

Family packages based on 2 adults and 2 children up to 12 years.

Book now for great early booking fares to Aspen with Virgin Australia.

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email ski@travelplan.com.au visit www.travelplan.com.au

Offices in Sydney and Melbourne. NSW Licence No 2TA000270 and VIC Licence W I N T E No R 230167.

013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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M O NT ANA

BIG SKY

Montana BIG SKY MONTANA WAS A BIG HIT WITH MATT HAYES AND HIS EXTENDED FAMILY WITH MOUNTAINS, MOOSE AND MAYHEM.

We chose Big Sky because… we wanted to try somewhere different and with a big group of us, needed somewhere that would be great for everyone. We also wanted to check out Yellowstone National Park.

The best bit was… skiing in such a spectacular location and being able to try different restaurants without having to walk far. We could also ski at Moonlight Basin with the Big Sky lift ticket.

Big Sky was… sensational. The ski school was brilliant for the kids, and the good skiers amongst us skied every section of the mountain, except the double black chutes. A highlight was going up the tram to Lone Peak, with views to Wyoming and Idaho as well as some challenging black runs down. We dined out at several places with Bucks T-4 the best. We also liked The Cabin for an adults only dinner and Andiamo. To give our legs a rest, we went to Yellowstone on a snowmobile tour, seeing bison, elk and the famous Old Faithful geyser going off.

The kids loved… the Terrain Parks, because they could progress from one to another as they improved. They really loved the lessons and at night, had a blast going tubing.

More information: www.bigskyresort.com

© Donnie Sexton

We stayed at... Beaverhead Lodge in the village – gorgeous luxury apartments with all the facilities a family needs. It’s ski-in, ski-out so no problems carrying all the kids gear. The four-bedroom apartments can sleep 10-14 – ideal for two or three families skiing together.

We adults loved… the fact that there were no crowds. It meant we spent more time skiing. We also loved that kids under ten ski free when doing day lessons, or if you book accommodation through the central lodging.

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J AC KS ON HOLE

JACKSON

Hole

THE WEIR FAMILY - TRISH AND TONY, SON MATT AND DAUGHTER MADDIE - FROM CHRISTCHURCH NZ, HAD JACKSON HOLE ON THEIR BUCKET LIST AND JETTED OFF TO SKI ITS MUCH VAUNTED SLOPES IN JANUARY.

We chose Jackson Hole because… according to Matt, this was the place to get some of the best, most reliable powder skiing in North America. He wanted a full on, back-country, deep-powder experience where he could indulge in ‘Big Mountain’ skiing over amazing terrain, with some of the longest runs available. Tony was also tempted by the lure of the snow and Maddie is happy as long as there is some shopping and nice food involved.

I wanted a touch of luxury, beautiful scenery, and a ski-in, ski-out experience. Jackson Hole ticked all our boxes.

The Resort… exceeded our expectations big time.

There were never long waits in queues, the lifties were friendly and OMG the lift seats were heated. After a hard day skiing, we were able to ski straight back to our hotel. Everything is in easy walking range in the village, with plenty of eateries and watering holes to choose from and catering for varying budgets. We sampled the Couloir Restaurant which you get to via the Tram, taking you high up above the resort. We felt it was worth the cost with fabulous food, wine and views. The Mangy Moose was full of fun, music, character, good food and people, and the lovely little pizza restaurant at our Hotel offered fab food and entertainment thanks to the resident pizza chef! There were a couple of handy grocery stores if you planned cooking for yourself and lots of great ski shops, which we did take advantage of.

We stayed at… Hotel Terra Jackson, in a two-bedroom condominium with a fully-appointed luxury kitchen and

three bathrooms. The Hotel is an eco-hotel, and is very contemporary in design. The gym was clean and nicely equipped, we swam in the hot pools that overlooked the village after skiing and could have had the full spa treatment if we wanted to! We would stay there again.

The best bit was… that everyone was able to ski to their ability, even though this resort has some very extreme runs. I had an injured leg so just stuck to mainly easy blue runs while the others were able to get their own fill of excitement through trees, over jumps and so on. Being a creature of comfort, I loved the yummy pizza and hot chocolate at each lift area. I also loved sleeping in, wandering down to breakfast, then picking up my gear from the ski valet and being on the slopes in no time. So easy!

The kids loved… the freedom, the terrain, the amount and quality of the snow. My son caught up with some buddies from New Zealand and experienced some of those deep powder days where they recommend you bring your snorkel!

The adults loved… spending time together. We enjoyed skiing together and hanging out at the Four Seasons bar enjoying their special beer hot toddies. We loved the Americans and their exceptional service. We will definitely be going back.

More information: www.jacksonhole.com

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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U SA

American DREAM

WHILE THERE ARE SKI RESORTS LOCATED ON THE EAST COAST OF AMERICA, MOST OF THE BIG PLAYERS ARE LOCATED ON THE WEST COAST, IN COLORADO, CALIFORNIA, UTAH, WYOMING AND MONTANA.

California SQUAW VALLEY Squaw Valley, in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in North Lake Tahoe is one of the largest ski areas in the USA and has bragging rights as an Olympic resort, hosting the Winter Games in 1960. With a good spread of terrain for all levels, ski and snowboard school and a swag of terrain parks to cater for beginners to advanced thrill seekers, it has something for everyone. A Squaw lift ticket also allows you to ski at Alpine Meadows, which means you have 2428 hectares of snow to play in. For off-slope fun, rev up for a mini snowmobile ride or tube run at SnoVentures, hop on for a sleigh ride or exhilarating dog sled tour, go for a slide at the ice rink or ride the Aerial Tram to High Camp for a swim in the heated pool, soak in the hot tub or a chill-out lunch. Terrain: 25% beginner; 35% intermediate; 40% advanced. www.squaw.com

NORTHSTAR Northstar is known for its family-friendly facilities, friendly service and awardwinning terrain parks. With about 100 trails to conquer, competent kids will be kept busy for a week, and there are some great options for kids and adults just starting out. The best way is with the Ultimate Four program – a maximum of four people per lesson, ensuring more one-on-one teaching. Mini shredders, from age seven, will love the Burton Snowboard Academy, which will have them carving in no time. For younger kids aged three to six, there’s the Burton Riglet Park, introducing youngsters to the joys of snowboarding through the safe and easy Riglet Reel. The Village at Northstar has plenty of accommodation, restaurants and activities and take the kids to meet Marsh Mellow – Northstar’s doggy mascot. Terrain: 13% beginner; 60% intermediate; 27% advanced. www.northstarcalifornia.com

Colorado TELLURIDE This resort is a real gem and is simply superb in every way. The town of Telluride sits in a box canyon, with pretty Victorian houses, historic pubs and great restaurants such as Rustico. A free gondola connects the town with the Mountain Village, where excellent family-friendly hotels are all ski-in, ski-out and a feast of magnificent terrain awaits. Beginners are well catered for and intermediates and advanced skiers and snowboarders will be in heaven – almost, with the top of Revelation Bowl a lofty 3831 metres. When you’re not skiing or boarding, take the kids for a snowmobile tour to a ghost town, dog sledding, snowshoeing or snowbiking.

For dinner, eat in the Mountain Village or catch the gondola down to the village. Terrain: 23% beginner; 36% intermediate; 41% advanced. www.tellurideskiresort.com

Northstar

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© Jack Affleck

Vail

VAIL For many, a snow holiday at Vail is like nothing on earth, with 2041 hectares of skiable terrain, seven back bowls and the renowned Blue Sky Basin.

The Village is uber trendy and being pedestrian friendly, is perfect for families. For kids there are eight Adventure Zones just for them, with tunnels and banked turns. The snowsports school offers a big range of lessons from Ultimate Four to group lessons, and for snowboarders, the Learn. Turn.

Ride program is a winner. In the evening, enjoy snowplay at Adventure Ridge with ski bikes, kids snowmobile track and tubing lanes, as well as Bistro Fourteen, a family-friendly bistro where you can watch the sunset over the bowls.

Terrain: 18% beginner, 29% intermediate, 53% advanced. www.snowusa.com

Utah

DEER VALLEY When it comes to luxury and service on a ski holiday Deer Valley is unsurpassed, winning countless awards over the years, including being named the number one ski resort in North America five years in a row by the readers of the prestigious Ski Magazine.

Everything is so easy at this ski-

only resort, with a superb ski school that caters for kids of all levels from age three to 18. For those with young babies, there is childcare for kids from two months. There are ski valets, free ski storage, free mountain tours, a ski butler service and best of all, beautifully groomed slopes that are a dream to ski on. For dinner, don’t miss Fireside Dining at Empire Lodge – it’s a big winner with kids and adults alike. Terrain: 18% beginner, 29% intermediate, 53% advanced. www.deervalley.com

❄ ❄ ❄

Wyoming Jackson Hole offers a massive ski and snowboard experience on two big mountains. Apres Vous and Rendezvous offer 116 trails and 13 lifts, with a superb snowsports school.

Real dare devils will shoot for the infamous Corbet’s Couloir. Steep and scary! The Saddlehorn Activity Center has snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding and tours into Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. There are two terrain parks – one for beginners and one for advanced as well as the Burton Stash Park. Terrain: 10% beginner; 40% intermediate and 50% advanced. www.jacksonhole.com

❄

❄

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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CA NADA

Dream LIVING THE

We chose Sun Peaks because … it offered so much. Having skied in New Zealand and Japan we had planned a white Christmas in Canada while our children still believed in the bearded one.

Fortuitously we moved to Vancouver in 2008 and once in British Columbia we looked at many of the ski areas to spend our first ever white Christmas, and decided that Sun Peaks offered our family (aged 10, nine, and five at the time) the right variety of terrain, family-friendly activities, restaurants and eateries, and value for money.

The resort was … just beautiful. We skied at a another larger BC resort, and smaller local areas but we enjoyed Sun Peaks so much, we made the eight-hour round trip from Vancouver four times that winter. The beautiful blue ski days, amazing snow conditions, terrain for all levels, ski-through village and friendly staff totally sold us on Sun Peaks.

We stayed at … Snow Creek Village initially. This particular development provides inexpensive, comfortable ski in/out accommodation with very easy access to the village. Skiing along Rambler run with the kids past Sundance Estate, we often stopped, admired the beautiful family homes, and wondered what it would be like living there. In December 2009, we bought a home in Sundance Drive and moved to Sun Peaks!

The best part of our first visit was … watching the kids’ faces when they saw Santa in the village.

It was priceless.

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MOST AUSSIE FAMILIES THAT SKI AT SUN PEAKS IN CANADA’S BRITISH COLUMBIA FALL IN LOVE WITH IT. THE HOWDEN FAMILY, ORIGINALLY FROM CAIRNS, MOST CERTAINLY DID.

The kids love … the terrain park, the trails through the trees and when they want a break from skiing; ice skating, tubing and a dip in the outdoor pool. Now that they’re a little older, they love the freedom of skiing off together with their friends, without Mum and Dad tagging along.

We love living here because … it provides so much in a safe and friendly community.

Not only is Sun Peaks a fabulous world-class ski location, it’s a mountain resort town with four seasons of activities. There are families here from all over the world, having decided to call Sun Peaks home for the fantastic lifestyle the area provides. Every January, a pile of Aussies come for the Family Cup – a great program teaching kids to race, improve technique and for families to participate in all kinds of events together.

More information: www.sunpeaksresort.com

The Howden kids with Santa

SWAP SANDCASTLES FOR SNOWFLAKES ( it’s how we play north of the equator ) In British Columbia’s interior you’ll find light, dry snow famous to this region of Canada. Gracing the mountains at Sun Peaks Resort, our powder days are often accompanied with bluebird skies. We’re a favourite ski destination among Australian families—not only for the quality of snow and amazing grooming—but for the welcoming vibe of our village community where you’ll feel more like a local than a guest. As BC’s second largest ski area, there’s terrain for every family member. And when you’re not exploring the slopes, try out dog sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing and more. It’s time to play, at Canada’s Alpine Village.

8th Annual Sun Peaks Family Cup:

All Nations Celebration JANUARY 1–15, 2014

Take part in a multinational celebration of recreational races, winter activities, and social gatherings. With the annual Winter Festival of Wine held January 11–19, you can also indulge in BC’s award winning wines! www.SunPeaksFamilyCup.com Photo: Kelly Funk

SPECIAL

OFFERS

Kids Ski Free and Early Bird Specials! Contact your preferred travel agent today.

Direct flights from Sydney to Vancouver and a quick connecting flight to Kamloops.

WINTER 2013 35 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au Visit SunPeaksResort.com/AUS

CA NADA

OFF TO

Whistler We chose Whistler because… we wanted a resort with great skiing that was easy to get to and offered a wide variety of other activities. We booked our trip only a few weeks before travelling and we found the www.whistlerblackcomb.com website extremely helpful. We used the online chat service to talk to a local rep who helped us find the style of accommodation we were after as well as booking our equipment hire, lift passes and snowboarding school.

The whole holiday was booked in 30 minutes!

The resort… exceeded our expectations. The onmountain logistics were very efficient with wellmaintained slopes and friendly lift staff. Even though Whistler Blackcomb is HUGE, you’re unlikely to get lost and there were regular “Easiest Way Down the Mountain” signs. Josh and Zac loved the five days of snowboarding school and improved significantly.

Every child participating in lessons wears a GPS tracking device ensuring that if someone was separated from their group they could be located in moments. Impressive!

THE BOLLEN FAMILY, SUE, IAN, JOSH (14) AND ZAC (11) SKIED IN THE USA LAST YEAR AND THIS YEAR VISITED WHISTLER, THE GRANDDADDY OF ALL SKI RESORTS.

We stayed at… the Tantalus Resort Lodge in a twobedroom apartment. It was a five-minute walk to the bottom of the gondolas or there was a regular shuttle bus service. The apartment was comfortable and had everything we needed. An added bonus was a fireplace so in the evenings we could relax and unwind in front of a real fire.

The best bit was… having so many things to do and places to eat. We could have easily eaten at a different restaurant every night, but some nights we were so tired we just cooked an easy dinner in our apartment.

The kids loved… snowboarding, snowboarding and more snowboarding! Plus the Tube Park, our dog sledding adventure and the aerial tricks and fireworks at the free Fire and Ice show that takes place every Sunday evening.

The adults loved… that the kids were so active and happy. We also enjoyed having time to ourselves so we could do some gentle skiing and explore the shops and cafes. It was one of our best ever family holidays … and the kids can’t wait to go back!

More information: www.whistlerblackcomb.com

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North

OF THE BORDER Big White Big White really is big and white with 16 lifts carrying you to 118 trails. On the mountain tops the trees seem more like snow ghosts turning the landscape into something out of a dream.

Teens and 20-somethings love the Telus Park with a Boarder/ Skier-Cross course and terrain for everyone from beginner to advanced with rails and jumps. The ski school has over a hundred instructors for little ones not yet ready to tackle the slopes, and there’s the Tot Town Daycare for children aged 18 months to five years. Off the slopes, let the kids climb the 60 ft ice wall, go tubing, snowmobiling, snowbiking and ice skating. Terrain: 18% beginner; 54% intermediate, 22% advanced. www.bigwhite.com

Fernie Fernie is a world-class snow destination with uncrowded trails, ski-in, ski-out accommodation and an eclectic vibe just three and a half hours drive from Calgary. Ten lifts service 142 runs plus five alpine bowls and tree skiing. Fernie has an exceptional beginner’s area, plenty of things to do, including high-tech guided geocaching treasure hunts. And keen-eyed kids can also spot some of the local wildlife which includes moose, elk or deer! Childcare is available and the season runs from early December to mid-April. Terrain: 30% beginner; 40% intermediate and 30% advanced. www.skifernie.com

WHILE WHISTLER IS THE BIG CHEESE IN CANADA, THERE ARE PLENTY OF OTHER RESORTS THAT OFFER EVERYTHING A FAMILY COULD WANT IN A SNOW HOLIDAY – AND THEN SOME. more than enough activities to keep them entertained. The Victorian-style village is small and colourful and on the slopes there are about 115 marked trails to explore. For beginners, the Kiddie Terrain Park allows kids to try some smaller features while the Rockstar Park is for advanced flyers.

Plus there is a snowXcourse where kids can race against a friend, brother, sister or parent! Terrain: 15% easy; 40% intermediate, 35% advanced and 10% extreme. www.skisilverstar.com

Sun Peaks Sun Peaks Resort has a very high rate of returning guests and once you’ve been you will see why. The intimate village is ski through, offers many exceptional places to stay and dine and has a really lovely, relaxed feel. While it is small, the skiing is anything but! There are three mountains serviced by 11 lifts accessing 124 trails and glades. It’s so good that the Austrian ski team trains here. For a break from the slopes try dog sledding (you can even drive your own sled) or twirl around on the ice rink, slide down the tube run, go snowmobiling or on a sleigh-ride. The Rockstar Terrain Park has separate areas for all levels and, for a bit more action, visit during the Family Cup in January where families from all around the world can join in the fun and frivolity. Terrain: 10% beginner, 58% intermediate and 32% advanced. www.sunpeaksresort.com

Silver Star Silver Star loves kids and offers familyfriendly accommodation, restaurants, activities and wonderful skiing for all abilities. Everyone will want to be involved in the Family Games Night and Carnival Night, and parents don’t have to worry about tweens as there are

Big White

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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A U ST RIA

SNOW HEAVEN IN

Innsbruck A SNOW HOLIDAY IN AUSTRIA’S INNSBRUCK IS SO MUCH MORE THAN SKIING, AS HELEN HAYES AND HER FAMILY DISCOVERED.

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Golden city

Flying high in Igls

Innsbruck’s Old Town dates back to Medieval days, and while dates don’t mean much to kids, there is so much here to help fire up an interest in history. Just walking through the narrow, cobblestone alleyways invokes a Harry Potter-esque vibe; heavy-set walls keeping secrets from the days when knights would do battle. The pokey hole-in-the-wall shops cast spells in a different way, with some amazing food to be had. Don’t miss the Strudel-Café Kröll, which has a strudel cart out the front and amazing strudels and torts inside.

The Golden Roof is stunning, overhanging a two-storey balcony from which the Emperor used to watch jousting tournaments in the square below. Wander through the Imperial Palace, where Empress Maria Theresa, the only female ruler of the Hapsburg dynasty, lived with her 16 children – including Marie Antoinette. Little princesses and princes will love it! And be sure to take time to visit the Hofkirche to see the Emperor Maximilian’s Tomb and the 28 massive bronze armoured statues of his ancestors.

Whisk the kids up to the Nordkette, via the futuristic Nordkettenbahnen cable railway and cable car. Go all the way to the top to Hafelekar, at 2,256 metres, and you’ll see an ocean of mountains, as far as Germany and Italy. When you head back down, stop off at the Alpen Zoo, which has over 2000 alpine animals, including bears, wolves and vultures.

It’s really easy to get around the city and the shopping and food is fantastic. Make sure you and the kids try Kaiserschmarrn – like cut up pancakes with icing sugar and stewed apple or plums.Yummm!

Igls is one of Innsbruck’s 25 Holiday Villages and is a ten-minute drive or very scenic tram ride from the city. Igls is at the base of the Patscherfkofel, one of nine ski resorts that make up Innsbruck’s Olympia SkiWorld. We stay at the Sporthotel, very close to the Patscherkofel gondola and are rearing to go skiing. We wolf breakfast, grab our hire ski gear, and head for the heavens. Wow. The view from the top is incredible - like we are on the roof of the world looking down into a bowl of cloud.

Patscherfkofel has nine lifts, a selection of runs for all levels – you can even do the run that hosted the mens downhill in the Winter Olympics of 1964 and ’76. The Kinderland at the bottom is perfect for beginners – we watch as one little girl goes up to a big kangaroo statue and tries to look in its pouch.

Cute!

We also spend a day skiing at Axamer Lizum, another Olympic ski area. A bright red funicular takes skiers up to the top and the panorama is striking thanks to the cliffs of dolomite and the perfect white slopes.

For a break from skiing, we decide to try something we have never done before – a run in a bobsleigh. The Olympic Bobsleigh course is regularly used for competition but in between the public can see what it’s like. We cram into a specially-built bobsleigh and absolutely fly down the track, turning inside and out on the 14 stomachturning curves. Sensational!

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Captivating Kühtai Kühtai is the highest ski town in Austria, at 2020 metres, and is the quintessential family ski resort.

Skiing on the rooftops at Patscherkofel

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A U ST RIA

Far Left top: The Igloo Village at Kühtai Far left bottom: Ski school at Kühtai Left: Alpenresort Schwarz

The village is wedged at the bottom of the basin, with perfectly groomed slopes rearing up on either side. We can ski and board direct from our apartment at the AlpinLodges, making it easy for the kids to have a break if they choose to. We have a ball exploring the mountain, and love that as you ski down, you can peek down over the colourful village. The kids spend hours in the K Park – an amazing terrain park and half pipe, and head off piste for some fun in the trees. We love having a hot chocolate or an Austrian beer in one of the mountain huts, and ski until our legs won’t carry us any more. For little kids, the ski school is excellent and the Children’s Wonderland is great for snow play. There are plenty of other things to do as well – night skiing, ice skating, night sledding, rock-climbing – you can even spend the night in an igloo, one of the highlights of our trip.

The Igloo Village has 12 igloos plus an igloo bar and restaurant. We have drinks in the bar with shots in ice glasses for us parents, enjoy dinner then go for a snowshoe walk before hitting the sack. It is hysterical trying to wriggle into our expedition sleeping bags in our thermal underwear. We are all warm as toast in our coccoons, despite the fact that it drops to -18° C outside.

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At one with nature in Mieming The Alpenresort Schwarz in Mieming is an exceptional resort and has something for everyone. The SunWelly Spa is huge with all kinds of treatments and beauty therapies, and the Water World is really beautiful with a host of heated indoor and outdoor pools. The brand new kids Water Park is amazing, with a 92-metre water slide, and the Hoppl Poppl Kids Club is superb. It even has a Petting Zoo! There are many activities to choose from, including cross country skiing, hiking tours, and ski tours to places like Kühtai and Hochoetz. We go for a magic sleigh ride through fairytale scenery to lunch at a mountain hut, and are taken high up in the mountains in an oversnow vehicle to the Lehnberghaus Hut, and then for an exhilarating slide down the trail on traditional sledges, using our shoes as brakes. It was unforgettable, the boys all racing down the picturesque trail, trying and succeeding to overtake their Dad. Afterwards, we stroll to a nearby village, stopping for a family snow fight.

I watch under the pretense of taking photos, as my two teenagers take on their father, snow flying into a cloud of mist amongst screams of laughter and howls of protest.

It is the perfect end to a perfect winter snowcation.

Patscherkofel

ski school

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE

Fly to Innsbruck via Vienna, Munich or Frankfurt ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Grauer Bar, Innsbruck www.innsbruck-hotels.at The Sporthotel, Igls www.sporthotel-igls.com The AlpinLodges, Kühtai www.alpin-lodges.com The AlpenResort Schwarz, Mieming www.hotel-schwarz.com MORE INFORMATON

Innsbruck Tourism www.innsbruck.info

INNSBRUCK TOURISMUS GRAFIK h. a.

Innsbruck – the Capital of the Alps Christmas Markets or shopping malls? Ski boots or high heels? No need to struggle to make the right decision – with a holiday in Innsbruck and its Holiday resorts you get the best of both worlds, the city AND the slopes. Where else can you take a designer cable car from a historic city centre that whisks you up to 2,000 meters altitude for afternoon tea? Only in Innsbruck, the capital of the Alps.

Take your pick from the vast variety of Innsbruck’s tailor made holiday packages: WINTER 2013 Innsbruck Tourismus, www.innsbruck-packages.com, office@innsbruck.info, www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au www.innsbruck.info

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SWI T ZERLAND

SWISS

Bliss

Jungfrau region KLEINE SCHEIDEGG - MÄNNLICHEN This incredible ski region has over 110 kilometres of premium ski and snowboarding terrain and mind-boggling views over the famous Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains. And you can access the snowfields by train. Choose to stay in the car-free village of Wengen or in Grindelwald, and ski and board to paradise.

If you and your children are advanced skiers, tackle the famous Lauberhorn run – the longest and oldest downhill run in the World Cup. Use the network of cable cars and the two railways to ski Männlichen, the Kleine Scheidegg or First.

Or take the Jungfraubahn up to the top of the Jungfrau (3454 metres) for views to knock your socks off from the terraces, the Aletsch Glacier or the Ice Palace. Terrain: 21% Beginner; 64% Intermediate; 15% Advanced.

MÜRREN – SCHILTHORN The car-free village of Mürren is on a plateau at the base of the Schilthorn, which soars to 2970 metres and has steep slopes, long downhill runs and those views over the iconic Swiss peaks mentioned

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THE GLORIOUS SWISS ALPS ARE HOME TO SOME OF THE WORLD’S BEST SKI RESORTS, SOME FREQUENTED BY ROYALTY, BUT YOU DON’T HAVE TO HAVE A TIARA OR A CROWN TO HAVE AN UNBELIEVABLE SNOW EXPERIENCE.

above. Children as young as three can learn to ski, or from eight snowboarding.

And for experienced kids, the Black League course is the way to go. You can link up with the runs at Kleine Scheidegg, and the villages of Wengen and Grindelwald, with an absolute highlight being lunch in the revolving Piz Gloria restaurant on the top of the peak – a star attraction in the James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Acrobatic skiers and boarders will love the I’m Rad terrain park, and off the slopes, go sledding, hiking or ice skating.

Terrain: 37% Beginner; 44% Intermediate; 19% Advanced.

Lake Lucerne Region ANDERMATT Andermatt is one of 15 ski resorts in this idyllic region, all of which can be reached by train and mountain railway. A cablecar takes skiers and snowboarders in two stages up to the skiing area on the Gemsstock, at nearly 3000 metres.

From there you can see about 600 peaks.

Beginners will prefer the more gentle slopes of Mt Nätschen, where the ski and snowboard school caters for kids from four years. For the winter of 2013/14, the resort

will be transformed with the completion of a billion dollar expansion, adding 37 kilometres of new pistes, 490 apartments, 25 luxury chalets, six hotels and an 18-hole golf course. Terrain: 22% Beginner; 46% intermediate; 32% advanced.

ENGELBERG - TITLIS Engelberg is an historic village an hour by train from Lucerne and is the largest snow resort in Central Switzerland. Mt Titlis, which has ample terrain, is accessed by a revolving rotair cableway, and has incredible panoramas from its lofty 3020 metres. While up there, check out the Glacier Park with all kinds of fun activities, visit the Glacier Cave and experience the Titlis Cliff Walk. Beginners are well catered for in the Brunni area on the south side, with Globi’s Wonderland a lovely childfriendly environment with two ski lifts, a ski carousel and two magic carpets to speed up the learning process. Off the slopes, try sledding, snowshoeing, hiking or ride an electric snow motorbike at the SnowXPark.

Kids 12 and over can even have a go on the junior bikes. Terrain: 32% beginner; 57% intermediate; 11% advanced.

More information: www.myswitzerland.com

Living Traditions.

Schw채galp, Appenzell, Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein

MySwitzerland.com For information and bookings go to MySwitzerland.com.

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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CA SE S T UDY – JAP A N

BACK TO

Niseko

THE DELANY FAMILY, DAD ROHAN, MUM EMMA AND THREE BOYS AGED SIX, EIGHT AND 10, HAD A WONDERFUL TIME IN NISEKO LAST YEAR. SO MUCH SO THEY RETURNED FOR MORE THIS JANUARY. We chose Niseko because … we’d been there before and found it an easy holiday. It is not too far to fly with three kids and you know when you get there that the snow is going to be fantastic. We used a different company each time – SkiJapan and Deep Powder Tours - but found both of them really helpful.

The resort was …awesome. There are four separate areas - An’nupuri, Niseko Village, Hirafu and Hanazono. Our favourite was Hirafu. It has a new gondola and the longest runs. It was the easiest one for the kids to ski on. We went to the top and from there, linked through to the other areas.

We stayed at … The Vale. It was recommended by the travel agent. It is located at the bottom of the Ace Family chairlift so is ski-in, ski-out. It also has an indoor heated pool which is why we chose it. When the boys needed a break they would just go and muck around in the pool. The Vale is also convenient to the supermarket and ski school.

The best bit was … watching the kids start a bit wobbly at the beginning of the week then watching them excel on magnificent snow within days.

They were having the time of their lives and flying

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down the mountain behind their dad. It is exciting watching them pick up a sport and loving it.

The Delany family

The kids loved …everything but probably the night skiing, which is included in the ticket price. The two older boys did it and although they didn’t stay out too long, due to the cold, they revelled in it while we watched from our balcony. The Vale’s pool was also a hit.

We adults loved … the skiing, but also loved coming home to The Vale, taking our boots off and soaking in the onsen for 20 minutes or so. It’s so relaxing.

We loved the Vale Bar and Grill which had fantastic food for adults and kids too. It was also magical watching the snow fall at night.

More information: www.thevaleniseko.com

SKI JAPAN 2014 Japan offers excellent ski opportunities with fantastic snow, a unique culture and its close proximity to Australia. The snow season runs from early December to late March. Deep Powder Tours Ski Holidays offer holiday packages and accommodation options in all of Japan’s major ski resorts.

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WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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J A P AN

Japan

TAKES OFF

Appi

Hakuba

Rusutsu On the beautiful island of Hokkaido, Rusutsu is a magnificent winter playground with fantastic skiing and snowboarding and no crowds. The resort has a network of 19 ski lifts, including four gondolas, providing hasslefree access to three mountains - East Mountain, West Mountain and Mount Isola. Some lifts are even open until 9pm. There is plenty to do off the slopes with dog sledding, snowmobiling and snow tubing, and the Daniel Kids Park allows children to have fun and learn in a safe environment. Hotels such as the ski-in, ski-out Rusutsu Resort Hotel, divided into North and South Wings, offers quality accommodation and a wide array of dining options. 30% beginner; 40% intermediate and 30% advanced. www.rusutsu.co.jp

Hakuba There are nine interlinked ski resorts in the picturepostcard Hakuba Valley, about three hours northwest of Tokyo. Sanosaka, Hakuba Goryu, Hakuba 47, Happo One, Iwatake, Minekata, Tsugaike, Hakuba Norikura, and Hakuba Cortina offer 139 lifts accessing over 200 runs, and the jagged snow-capped peaks that tower over the Valley give it a European feel. There are more than six hotels and chalets owned and operated by Australians in Hakuba, and they know what Australian families are looking for. For families with plenty of experience, Aussie Olympian Steven Lee offers guided tours of challenging off piste terrain. www.hakubatourism.jp

Appi About three and a half hours from Narita on the Shinkansen bullet train, Appi is one of the largest ski areas in Japan and is located on the same latitude as Aspen. Appi has numerous north-facing slopes, long runs (longest 5.5km from the summit of Mt Maemori) and ski-in, ski-out accommodation. A post-ski soak at either of two natural hot springs is another plus as is its

46

APART FROM SENSATIONAL SKIING, JAPAN OFFERS DIFFERENT CULTURAL ACTIVITIES SUCH AS SOAKING IN ONSENS, VISITING TEMPLES AND WATCHING THE SNOW MONKEYS. IAN TALBOT REPORTS.

WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Myoko

snow quality and grooming by a large fleet of modern snow kats. A renowned Japanese architect was involved in the creation of the resort’s three world-class hotels, which offer Japanese and Western-style rooms. Englishspeaking instructors are available and there is a Kids Day Care Centre and there is a separate Family Park where kids can learn. Terrain: 30 % beginner; 40% intermediate and 30% advanced. www.appi.com.jp

Myoko Kogen Myoko Kogen is one of Japan’s oldest ski areas renowned for its history, culture and traditional Japanese onsen. It has two linked resorts, with another five accessible by a short ride in a shuttle bus, clustered around the 2,454 –metre high Mt Myoko. There’s more than enough terrain and an efficient lift system to suit all levels of riding. With about 13 metres of snow per season there is plenty of snow and it has more sunny days than other Japanese resorts. Scattered next to the hotels and pensions of the village are an array of restaurants serving everything from delicious traditional Japanese dishes like sushi and tepanyaki, to sizzling steaks and pizza. www.myokokogen.net

Naeba Naeba is known as the ‘Aspen of Japan’ due to its renowned apres ski scene. The resort has 24 lifts that provide easy access to the slopes. Make sure you take the 20-minute ride on the 5.5km Dragondola, an impressive feat of engineering that links Naeba and the Tashiro ski area of Kagura. The Naeba ski resort is also renowned for infrastructure that suits freestylers and families, with great terrain parks, a snowcross course, kids’ snow park, kids’ indoor ski area, and family Snowland. The resort is dominated by the Prince Hotel, which has 1242 guest rooms, a huge entertainment complex and 23 restaurants. www.princehotels.com/en/naeba

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WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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WINTER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au