Best Resorts to Buy Ski Property in the French Alps
Originally posted on & updated on 13th November, 2024
France is the leading ski destination for Brits, around 10 million British tourists visit France every year. The Alps are known for their stunning natural beauty, world-class ski resorts and a vast range of outdoor activities, making it an ideal location for those who love the great outdoors.
When Are Ski Resorts Opening in 2024?
The ski resorts in the Alps are scheduled to start the winter season at the end of November (Tignes and Val d’Isere in Savoie). Last winter, a few of stations were allowed to open in early November due to the abundance of of fresh and ongoing snowfalls. We could see the new season begin early again, there’s already been snow in the Alps (above 1500m). The last couple of years (2022 and 2023) were exceptional ski seasons for mountain and tourism professionals, who had struggled in recent years. They are excited about making this year a repeat of this success.
List of Ski Resorts Dates for Winter 2024/2025
See below the full list of opening and closing dates for the coming season and winter 2024/2025. Before planning a trip to your favorite Alpine resort, we recommend that you learn about the French school holiday dates, as the slopes can be very busy with families enjoying a winter break, particularly in February and March, with the multi-zone system.
Ski Resorts Opening in November 2024
- Val Thorens from 23rd November 2024 until 4th May 2025
- Tignes from 23rd November 2024 until 4th May 2025
- Val d’Isère from 30th November 2024 until 4th May 2025
- Les Deux Alpes from 30th November 2024 until 4th May 2025
French Alps Resorts Opening in December 2024
- Chamonix from 2nd December 2024 until 27th April 2025
- Courchevel from 6th December 2024 until 21st April 2025
- La Clusaz from 6/7th December 2024 until 27th April 2025
- Meribel from 7th December 2024 until 21st April 2025
- Serre Chevalier from 7th December 2024 until 21st April 2025
- Le Grand-Bornand from 7th December 2024 until 13th April 2025
- Avoriaz from 13th December 2024 until 21st April 2025
- Flaine from 14th December 2024 until 21st April 2025
- La Rosiere from 14th December 2024 until 21st April 2025
- Les Arcs from 14th December 2024 until 26th April 2025
- La Plagne from 14th December 2024 until 26th April 2025
- Megeve from 21st December 2024 until 6th April 2025
- Les Gets from 21st December 2024 until 6th April 2025
- Morzine from 21st December 2024 until 6th April 2025
- Les Houches from 21st December 2024 until 6th April 2025
What Are the Best Resorts in the French Alps?
In this article, we explore some of the top ski destinations in the French Alps, including Val d’Isère, Combloux, Les Carroz and Tignes. Each destination offers a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an attractive location for property investment. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful mountain retreat or an adrenaline-filled adventure, les Alpes Françaises have something for everyone.
When choosing a resort for early or late season skiing, consider factors like altitude. Be aware that some facilities, such as certain lifts or restaurants, may not be fully operational during shoulder seasons.
Val d’Isère - A Skiing Haven
Val d’Isère was recognised as one of the world’s top resorts by the Forbes Travel Guide in 2018. Although this acknowledgement highlights the exceptional skiing opportunities at the resort, it is merely a fraction of what the destination has to offer. The Coin De Val project implemented various public amenities, including underground parking, contributing to the resort’s reputation as a world-class alpine destination. The Euro Solaise gondola also received a significant boost from the 200-million-euro project.
The capital of chic skiing, Val-d’Isère stands out for its village atmosphere and its shared ski area with Tignes. Here luxury real estate takes an entire new meaning with events such as Critérium de la Première Neige and establishments like La Folie Douce further contributing to this legendary status.
Chamonix - The Majestic Playground of the Alps
Chamonix is a legendary resort town known for its breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventure. Its ski domain offers diverse alpine experiences catering to all skill levels. Beyond winter sports, Chamonix is a year-round destination that blends rich mountaineering heritage with modern luxury. With its commitment to preserving natural splendor and forward-thinking approach to tourism, Chamonix sets the gold standard for Alpine resorts.
Ski in Combloux on a Budget
The resort of Combloux is just 4 kilometres away from Megeve, a popular year-round destination. With affordable prices per square metre and a diverse array of outdoor activities, such as mountain biking, Combloux is an ideal summer getaway. Furthermore, being a part of the renowned Mont Blanc area in southeast France, the town’s 2000 residents also have access to snow skiing in the nearby suburbs.
Family-Friendly Les Carroz
Les Carroz, situated in the Grand Massif region, is a family-friendly destination that exudes a traditional Alpine charm. The town’s ambiance is so exceptional that it received an award from the French tourism board. Les Carroz is an ideal choice for families seeking convenient access to local amenities. Additionally, apartments in this area have rental management agencies that help manage buy-to-let incomes.
Alpe D’Huez, voted Best Ski Resort
Recognised as the best ski resort of the country, this destination in the French Alps has implemented numerous urban projects, including the Les Deux Alpes, to enhance skiing opportunities. During the summer months, this resort offers activities suitable for both novice and seasoned skiers. Additionally, visitors can partake in other activities such as dog sledding and an alpine coaster ride.
Major property developments have seen the addition of 4,600 new beds (4 and 5 stars), including a Club Med resort, and contributed to the resort’s growing reputation in recent years. Whether you are searching for property to purchase in this resort or seeking to invest in a ski resort, this location is an excellent choice.
The Five Villages of Tignes
Tignes, a ski resort located beneath Val D’Isère, provides easy access to the Espace Killy area, offering an extensive range of skiing opportunities. However, Tignes is not only a winter destination; it is also a popular summer destination for outdoor activities such as golfing. Moreover, Tignes has been recognized for its eco-friendly practices, earning a global green certification for its efforts in preserving the environment. This stunning resort is made up of five charming villages, each with its unique character and amenities, including the family-friendly Les Brévières. Tignes since undergone a complete makeover, with 4 and 5* hotels, luxury apartment hotels, and some beautiful chalets.
Les Arcs – The Pride of France
Les Arcs, situated in Bourg-Saint-Maurice, is a fantastic ski resort that forms part of the Paradiski ski area. The resort boasts 106 runs, 54 lifts, and an impressive 200 kilometres of descent. The highest point in this stunning ski destination is the Aiguille Rouge, which translates to the “Red Needle.” As the original “mega resort,” Les Arcs has set a standard for other resorts in the area to follow. The inauguration of a flagship Club Med resort and the free, newly refurbished funicular down to Bourg-Saint-Maurice and its high-speed train station make it a resort that is resolutely turned towards the future.
Morzine - Portes du Soleil
Morzine, situated in the Portes du Soleil ski area, is an idyllic resort that offers a lot more than just skiing and stunning vistas. This picturesque destination is a year-round hub of activity, with fantastic facilities for both skiing and mountain biking. With more than 650km of pistes and over 200 lifts, Morzine is an absolute paradise for ski enthusiasts. Moreover, the resort is well-known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent place to live or holiday.
Morzine boasts a variety of options, ranging from small cosy hotels to 4-star establishments. The construction and renovation of luxury chalets with a more modern touch have contributed to raising the level of the resort.
Méribel - The Heart of the Three Valleys
Méribel is located in the heart of the famous Three Valleys ski area and is a beautiful resort offering traditional Savoyard architecture with stunning mountain views. It is a key hub in the largest linked ski area globally, providing access to 600km of slopes and over 180 lifts, catering to winter sports enthusiasts of all levels. In the summer, Méribel offers hiking, golf, and mountain biking activities, and is known for its vibrant après-ski scene and family-friendly environment. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, from cosy apartments to luxurious chalets. In recent years, there has been significant investment in high-end facilities and eco-friendly initiatives, solidifying Méribel’s reputation as a top-tier Alpine resort that seamlessly blends tradition with modern comfort.
Val Thorens - The Peak of Alpine Excellence
Val Thorens is Europe’s highest ski resort, situated at 2,300 meters in the Three Valleys ski area. With access to 600km of slopes and modern lift systems, the resort offers reliable skiing from November to May. It provides convenience for visitors with its ski-in/ski-out design and a range of activities for non-skiers. Val Thorens has evolved into a resort that combines functionality with luxury, offering accommodation options from practical apartments to 5-star hotels, along with a lively post-ski fun and gourmet dining choices. Recent investments in sustainability and digital innovations have solidified Val Thorens’ reputation as a forward-thinking resort.
Serre Chevalier - Ski in Provence
North of the Southern Alps, a stone’s throw from Italy, at the very top of the Hautes-Alpes département, just below the Col du Lautaret, the 27.7 km Serre Chevalier valley stretches all the way to Briançon.
Situated at an altitude of between 2642 m (Col du Galibier) and 1200 m (Briançon) with towering glaciers the valley enjoys the sun-drenched warmth of the Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur region.
The ski area, 70% of which is above 1,800 metres, receives plenty of snow and tourists. In the summer, its mountain passes made famous by the Tour de France attract cyclists from all over Europe.
Why Buy Ski Property in the Alps?
Living in the Alps in France can be a truly remarkable experience. The region is known for its majestic mountain ranges, picturesque villages, and world-class ski resorts. If you love the great outdoors, then this is the perfect place to call home. The region offers a vast range of outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
Moreover, the Alps have a rich cultural heritage, with traditional customs, festivals, and delicious local cuisine to explore. Whether you are looking for a peaceful mountain retreat or an adrenaline-filled adventure, the French Alps have something to offer everyone.
Rental Potential for Investors
The Alpine property market offers a wide range of benefits for potential investors. The region has a stable economy and a growing tourism industry, making it an attractive location for property investment. In addition, the properties in the region offer excellent rental potential, with many tourists visiting the area throughout the year for skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
The market also offers a variety of properties, from traditional mountain chalets to modern apartments with luxurious amenities. Also, the Alpine lifestyle is highly sought after, with stunning scenery, fresh mountain air, and a healthy outdoor lifestyle. All of these factors make the ski property market a smart investment choice for those looking to build wealth and enjoy the beauty, fun and benefits of mountain living.
JUMP! Take the Alpine Plunge
Take a look at our collection of ski chalets and apartments, our portfolio features a wide variety of options to suit all budgets and requirements. Each property listing includes detailed information on the number of bedrooms, location of the residence, and nearby amenities. Not sure where to start your search? Make the most of our multi-lingual team and investment service in the French Alps.
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