Spent the last 14 years going to Les Contamines on and off. Last 3 years with a family (2 adults 2 boys ages 10 - 13 now). We love it. Quiet resort and easily accessible. Half-term holidays: very short queues. Virtually snow sure too. Add to that, from St Gervais (10 minute drive) you can get the little train up the mountain to Les Houche in the Chamonix valley and ski there too (125euro for a family of four including the skiing).

Wide open skiing on mainly reds. Enough easy slopes for beginners; not a huge amount of blacks but a lot of off-piste/open bowl fun can be had if you know where to go. I was finding powder with none there 6 days after the last fall of snow!

Accommodation is cheap/reasonable (it is a ski holiday!). We love going back year after year. Some nice bars and eateries. 3 supermarkets in town for self catering.

We drive from Lancashire each year; well worth the trip. Driving also gives you options for going to Chamonix valley or Les Gets/Morzine/Avoriaz; all about 1hr ish away.

Add to that free night skiing on Tuesday and Wednesday and for your intermediate/family skiers its all great!