LONDON, December 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

• Après ski options remain major attractions for winter holidaymakers

• Ski holidays expected to prove popular for Christmas 2012

• Neilson offer range of group ski holidays for festive travellers

A time of year which we all look forward to, the onset of Christmas requires a lot of forethought and planning. However for those people dreaming of a white Christmas, the news that heavy snowfall has already turned much of Europe into a winter wonderland, will be festive music to the ears.

So whilst spending the season at home is often considered the traditional option, taking group ski holidays and other winter breaks has become more popular over recent years - with après ski facilities remaining a major attraction. Whether it is New Year fireworks displays against a mountainous backdrop or cosy sleigh-rides with a loved one - a Christmas ski-holiday is a must for any family to experience - at least once!

Why ski this Christmas?

For those wondering whether or not to take a skiing holiday this Christmas, experts at Neilson, a leading provider of activity holidays, offer plenty of reasons to say 'yes'. From their extensive selection of affordably priced holidays through to their detailed knowledge of what's on offer at leading resorts, they're sure to know exactly how you can make the most of your festive trip.

Escape the crowds

With presents to buy and meals to prepare, we can all be forgiven for wanting an escape from the Christmas preparations now and again. With plenty of group ski deals on offer, affording a trip is certainly within the realms of possibility and you can avoid all the constant washing up and shopping that comes with it in a fabulous chalet. You're also likely to find far fewer crowds on Europe's best ski slopes than you are on your local high street over the festive period.

Escaping the crowds for Christmas and taking part in something you enjoy is a great way to reward yourself for another year of hard work - making these holidays the ideal end of year treat.

Celebrate in style

Of course, just because you're going on a skiing holiday doesn't mean you have to spend all your time on the slopes. With plenty of luxury ski holidays to choose from, your winter getaway can be just as much about relaxing in the hot-tub as it is about sport.

Nowadays, a number of popular resorts are just as famous for their après ski activities as they are for their on-slope action; demonstrating just how much you could stand to gain from these holidays. Resorts which are commonly praised for their fantastic bars and party atmospheres include Ischgl and St Anton in Austria as well as the Italian Livigno.

Here you'll find a great selection of clubs and bars catering to all musical tastes and preferences. With fine dining and varied cuisine also on the menu, your Christmas dinner doesn't have to be ruined either - giving you all the benefits of a fantastic meal without the hassle of washing up afterwards.  

Already a hundred resorts have opened across the Alps, so there has never been a better time to bad that bargain. Visit the Neilson website to find out how you can enjoy all this Christmas and New Year luxury while saving up to £200 per person when you book your ski or board holiday over this festive season*

*Terms and conditions apply