Alternatives to Hotel le Totem

Sorry, we're not going to Hotel Le Totem this winter.

The hotel is no longer available through us or any other tour operator, the word is that it's being turned into apartments.

To help you find an alternative hotel we're recommending our three favourites – each has Crystal-run kids clubs, family-friendly facilities, convenient locations and plenty of skiing, whatever your ability.

More info on kids clubs, including a video that covers all the options available.

Alpe d'Huez is a fantastic ski resort for families.

There's a really good mix of skiing – an excellent beginner's area plus some great intermediate runs to zoom around on. Expert skiers can enjoy the challenge of le Tunnel's moguls and la Sarenne's length – it's the longest black in the world.

Off the slopes there's plenty for families to do. The open air ice skating and swimming pool are both free with a six day lift pass (though skate hire is a little bit extra and you do have to wear budgie smugglers in the pool).

Hermitage highlights:

• Central resort location - 2 minutes walk to the slopes and lift to ski school.
• Spacious and comfy lounge bar area.
• Quad and triple rooms - practical for families.
• Services of Crystal hotel staff.
• Pepi Penguin and Whizz Kids Clubs are located in the hotel.
• Free quarter litre of wine or cordial with evening meals.
• Free and reduced prices for kids 2-11yrs when sharing with two adults.

Find out more about the Hermitage.

As part of the massive Paradiski area - with its 425km of piste - skiing in La Plagne has something for everyone.

There's wide, gentle slopes and tree-lined cruising runs, to steeper terrain on the glacier, plus there's mountain views whatever your ski level.

Ideally located for families - the Terra Nova is ski-in ski-out and it's in Plagne Centre, the middle village of La Plagne's mainly purpose-built villages. La Plagne is popular with families with its relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The bars and cafés at the bottom of the slopes are great for hot chocolate and people watching.

For something more action-packed take the Family Bob down the Olympic bobsleigh run. It costs about €150 per bob for 4 persons (minimum height 1.3 metres).

Terra Nova highlights:

• Ski to and from door on a green slope.
• A short chairlift ride or walk to ski school.
• A superb location close to the bars and shops of Plagne Centre.
• Cosy bar and lounge.
• Great for families with full range of childcare and a games room.
• Quad and inter-connecting rooms.
• Ski Plus Extra is available (packed lunch and drinks vouchers) to help you budget.

More information on the Terra Nova.

Claviere is a small Italian village resort with a fantastic ski area.

From the Hotel Grande Claviere, you've got convenient access to the Milky Way's 400km of piste, whether you choose to head towards Montgenevre just over the border in France or to Sestriere, home of the alpine events at the 2006 Olympics. With its great snow conditions and setting amongst breathtaking scenery, holidays in Claviere are quite charming and low key.

Grande Claviere highlights:

• 5 minutes walk to the nearest slopes and the Montquitaine chairlift.
• Services of Crystal hotel staff.
• Lounge with fireplace, bar area and sun terrace.
• 24 hour access to fridge, kettle, steriliser and microwave.
• Pepi Penguin Club, Whizz Kids Club and evening Snuggle and Pyjama Clubs.
• New great value all inclusive package with daily packed lunches and free drinks.

More information on the Grande Claviere.