Try not to fall in love with a ski chalet before knowing the resort location as well as the chalet position within the resort.

Property listings often gloss over the location, the quality of nearby amenities, and overall atmosphere of the resort. Falling for a property based solely on its photos and floorplans can lead to significant disappointment.

Proximity to amenities affects rental potential if you plan to rent out the chalet when you're not using it. Chalets closer to essential services like ski lifts, shops, and entertainment are more attractive to renters.

Conduct your research on the ski area and its amenities. If possible, visit the location personally before making a commitment. Athena Advisers are specialists in this field and can help you. This will help ensure that your investment brings you joy for years to come.

Choosing your ski resort

One of the most common questions asked at Athena Advisers is, 'Which ski resort generates the best rental yields?'. Because of the premium nature of the resorts we market, there is little difference between the rental yields. Instead of focusing on yields, consider the type of ski resort that best suits you.

Slopes and ambience

The atmosphere of a resort plays a pivotal role in matching your needs.

If you thrive in lively environments, you will need a resort offering plenty of bars, clubs, and entertainment options. If your priority is peace, you will need a low-key resort with a serene atmosphere. For families, it’s crucial to choose a resort that caters to children. 

Ensuring the resort aligns with your specific needs will make your buying a holiday home in the French Alps truly satisfying.

Family-Friendly Resorts

For families, we recommend resorts with a variety of gentle slopes, excellent ski schools, and plenty of activities. Look out for the Famille Plus label, this means the resort provides exceptional facilities for families. This includes dedicated childcare, activities for all age groups, and special accommodation for young children.

Low-Key and Relaxed Resorts

For those preferring a low-key, relaxed environment, ideal for unwinding after a day on the slopes we recommend:

Vibrant Après-Ski and Nightlife

For vibrant après-ski, resorts and ski domains renowned for their energetic nightlife, with a multitude of bars, clubs, and entertainment options.

Distance from the airport

We recommend buying a ski chalet close to the airport if you do weekend trips as well as longer breaks.

Geneva Airport (GVA) Transfers

Resort Distance Typical Drive Time
Les Gets, Praz de Lys 58-68 km 55 minutes
Megève, Samoëns, Morzine, Chapelle d'Abondance 70-84 km 1 hour
Saint-Gervais, Montriond, Grand Bornand 74-88 km 1 hour 5 minutes
Les Houches, Châtel, La Clusaz 76-90 km 1 hour 10 minutes
Chamonix Mont Blanc, Argentière 100 km 1 hour 15 minutes
La Plagne 172 km 2 hours 25 minutes
Tignes, Courchevel, Méribel, Paradiski 175-180 km 2 hours 30 minutes
St-Martin-de-Belleville 179 km 2 hours 35 minutes
Val d'Isère 180 km 2 hours 40 minutes
Val Thorens 188 km 2 hours 45 minutes

Transfers from Other Airports

From Airport To Resort Distance Typical Drive Time
Grenoble (GNB) Alpe d'Huez 106 km 1 hour 30 minutes
Lyon (LYS) Les Sybelles / La Toussuire 172 km 2 hours 10 minutes

Create a ski chalet features checklist

When looking for a ski chalet, it is helpful to draw up a list of what is nice to have and what is a deal-breaker.

Orientation

The direction the property faces is not as important when choosing a ski chalet as typical home buying. Even north-facing properties can be bright as there is lots of reflective light in the mountains.

Floorplans and "Loi Carrez"

French property floor plans don't include areas with ceiling heights less than 1.8 metres. This adds significant volume to the property that isn't reflected in the official square footage.

  • Coin montagne: A bunk bedroom alcove.
  • Cabine: A small bedroom.
  • Dormitory: A room with multiple bunks, popular for the rental market.

Draw the investment-lifestyle line

What sort of living space are you used to at home or when on holiday? Architects often design ski chalets around generous living areas, maximising natural light and views, which can sometimes result in smaller bedrooms than expected.

Financial Planning

Before looking for a mortgage, it's crucial to get a decision in principle. Cash buyers have an advantage in the French Alps as they can close deals faster without waiting for loan approval.

French taxes needn't be taxing

French Wealth Tax (IFI)

The tax is on real estate values above €800,000, but only applies when total assets reach €1,300,000.

Net Property Value Tax Rate
€800,000 and under 0%
€800,000 – €1,300,000 0.5%
Over €1,300,000 – €2,570,000 0.7%
Over €2,570,000 – €5,000,000 1%
Over €5,000,000 – €10,000,000 1.25%
€10,000,000 and over 1.5%

Save €1,000s by renting out your ski chalet

The French new-build ski property rebate programme allows you to recover 20% VAT from the purchase price. To qualify:

  • Rent the property out all year round.
  • Fully furnish the property.
  • Provide 3 hotel-equivalent services (breakfast, linen, cleaning, or check-in).

For more information read our Guide to renting out property in the French Alps.

About the Authors

Nick Leach

Nick Leach is a co-founder of Athena Advisers, specialising in French real estate, and the French Alps. Nick established Athena Advisers in 2003.

Charles-Antoine Sialleli

Charles-Antoine is Head of French Alps for Athena Advisers with 15 years of ski chalet sales experience. He is a font of knowledge for those looking to invest in the French Alps.