Andorra, Norway, and Italy lead the way for stress-free Christmas ski holidays by offering Sunday changeovers that bypass the Saturday Boxing Day travel scramble. Families can also opt to self-drive or work with a tailor-made specialist to customise their departure dates.
Why Boxing Day Travel Happens
Charter flights, coach transfers and hotel/chalet turnarounds for most major Alpine ski destinations are built around a fixed weekly rotation, and for the Christmas school-holiday period, that rotation typically runs Saturday to Saturday. Because Christmas Day 2026 falls on a Friday, the standard one-week package booked over Christmas week ends with a Boxing Day changeover.
Phil Wright, Head of Operations at Iglu Ski, said, ‘Whilst a Christmas holiday is top of most skiers’ wish list, it can take some careful thought to ensure that everything is stress-free. This year, it’s worth considering the last day of the holiday and perhaps looking for a later flight departure, or choosing Andorra, Norway or selected resorts in Italy for an easy return journey on the Sunday. We also have the odd package to France available from Sunday the 20th to the 27th, so it’s worth taking a close look at exactly what is needed.’
Holiday Examples
Andorra December 20-27th Sundays
Iglu Ski offers 7 nights at the Magic Hotel, Pas de la Casa, Andorra, departing 20th December, half board, based on three sharing from Manchester Airport, from £988 per person, includes transfers. Gatwick +£83; Glasgow -£163.
Austria December 19-26th Saturdays
Iglu Ski offers 7 nights at the Hotel Hannes, Niederau, Austria, departing 19th December, half board, based on three sharing from Cardiff, from £660 per person, includes transfers. Gatwick +£14; Glasgow +£54.
France December 19th-26th – SAVE £500 PER PERSON Saturdays
Iglu Ski offers 7 nights at Chalet Loup Blanc, Val Thorens, France, departing 19th December, catered board, based on two sharing from London Gatwick from £1,191 per person, was £1,691 including transfers.
Reservations telephone: 0203 993 4781 (7 days)
