Easy Access, High Altitude Resorts are Still the Favourite for Property Buyers in France

There can be a thousand different reasons to fall in love with a particular ski resort, but according to Julian Walker from SkiingProperties.com, “Access, length of ski season and altitude” are the major drawcards for those looking to buy a ski home in France. And why is this? Ski resorts with shorter commute times mean weekend trips are easier and more appealing for visitors should you choose to rent it out. A higher altitude generally means better snow conditions for a longer period making each ski season longer.

And where do we find such resorts? Walker says to look no further than the Savoie region of the Alps which is home to “high altitude resorts with excellent skiing and easy access from the UK and Europe”. Taking this into consideration, where should prospective buyers be looking to invest their cash? 

Tignes

One half of the massive Espace Killy ski area with over 300km of slopes (as well as some epic off-piste) reaching up to nearly 3500m and the Grande Motte glacier making summer skiing possible, Tignes is one of the premier go-to resorts for snow sure skiing. And the best bit? At only 2.5 hours from Geneva or 2 hours from Chambery, you can finish work on Friday and be tucked up in bed ready for a Saturday morning blast around the slopes before midnight. Made up of four different villages each sitting at a slightly different altitude, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit all kinds of travellers. This new-build 5 bedroom chalet would be an ideal family ski base. 

Val d'Isère

Making up the other half of the Espace Killy with Tignes, Val d’Isère sits at a lofty 1850m with the skiing reaching up to 3560m. Hugely popular with the Brits and French from all walks of life, there is something for everyone here. The pretty alpine centre has a huge range of bars, restaurants & shops, and the skiing is extensive, snow sure and suits skiers of every ability. They have recently invested in a new gondola for the Solaise area, increasing passenger capacity by 40%, and a further 200 million investment will transform the centre of the town. Read more about the plans for Val d’Isere here. A 2-hour drive from Chambery and 2.5 hours from Geneva or Lyon means the travel time for the quality of the skiing (and the village life) is minimal. This 4 bedroom chalet would make a fantastic family home or chalet business and this lock-up and leavev apartment is excellent for weekend warriors and holiday lets.

Méribel

Family friendly Méribel has long been a favourite with visiting Brits, who adore its pretty main village, and the abundance of shops, bars & restaurants. Surrounded by satellite resorts, Méribel Mottaret is its highest village sitting at 1750m. With most of the homes offering ski in/ski out access, Méribel is the place to go for great skiing on your doorstep. Geneva, Grenoble & Lyon are 2 hours’ drive away and Chambery can be reached in just one hour on a good day. This 3-bed apartment in Méribel is a rare find, and would make a great second-home with the potential to make a profit as a holiday let. 

Courchevel

The glistening jewel of Les Trois Vallees, Courchevel is known for its glamorous clientele, ubiquitous Michelin restaurants, chic-bars and luxurious accommodation. Unlike Méribel which has a distinctly English vibe, the 5 villages of Courchevel are as French as they come, and each has its own feel with something to suit everyone. With access to the Les Trois Vallees ski area, the skiing is snow sure and vast. Chambery is a short 75-minute drive away, and Lyon & Geneva can be reached in less than 2 hours.

Alpe d'Huez

300 days of sunshine a year, epic skiing and après-ski to rival the party-hard vibe of many Austrian resorts, Alpe d’Huez truly is a ski resort for everyone. The skiing is world renowned – 4 of the longest black runs in the world are accessed from the Pic Blanc cable car, and its height (3300m) means the snow is almost always in good condition. The village is divided into quarters, each with its own unique atmosphere catering to all types of holiday-maker and it is an easy 90-minute drive from Grenoble. Another ski resort for fans of summers in the mountains, the road up to Alpe d’Huez is the holy grail for road bikers and has hosted the Tour de France any times.

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