The French Alps have weathered the global downturn better than many other parts of France. This is mainly due to a limited supply of property, a strong international market and a captive rental audience.
Ski property has proved to be one of the most buoyant sectors of the overseas real estate market, and many potential buyers are keen to make an Alpine investment. Having that second home in the French Alps remains on many must-have lists, never mind the cachet of an Alpine second home in the right resort.
Investors in Alpine property expect to enjoy, as well as profit from, their assets. It all adds up to continued strong demand.
Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful ski resorts in the world, Megève has a long history of conveying the finest in the Alpine way of life. It draws a sophisticated and discerning clientele, both those who consider it a desirable holiday destination and those interested in obtaining an investment in a popular and prestigious location. The charming, refined resort attracts a mix of European buyers, including Russians, and continues to generate strong domestic interest.
Despite that popularity, Megève has lost none of its Savoyard charm and proudly guards its traditional Alpine village feel. It delivers that perfect mix of cosy affluence and premium amenities. With the awe-inspiring Alps as a backdrop, the village enjoys a well-preserved town centre featuring narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings. It also boasts a fine old medieval church, horse-drawn sleighs, chic boutiques and gourmet restaurants.
As the most fashionable of French ski resorts, Megève is the byword for all things luxurious in the world of skiing. At the foot of the fabled Mont Blanc, Megève provides first-class skiing, with well-manicured slopes that bask under sunny skies, plus an extensive high-speed lift system. The Megève’s ski area offers 300 kilometres of marked trails, served by 81 integrated lifts that offer vast terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
The wider ski area is called the Evasion Mont Blanc domain, which opens up 140 kilometres of additional pistes. The Mont Blanc Unlimited Ski Pass unites the five ski areas in the Chamonix Valley with unlimited access to the Grands Montets, plus one day in Courmayeur.
During the summer months, there are numerous other sports and leisure activities available to suit everyone, including mountain biking, white water rafting, mountain climbing, paragliding, golfing and quad biking.
Megève is one of the most easily accessible resorts in the French Alps. By road, air or train the journey to Megève is extremely straightforward, with Geneva International Airport just 75 minutes away by car and Lyon St-Exupery Airport just two hours.
Demand for Megève property is healthy, particularly for luxury chalets near the centre of the village. Here, new building is restricted and with the tough regulations, this elegant chalet really is a rare opportunity to invest in a ski property. It is a supreme example of bringing quality of build and luxury amenities together in a spot with direct access to the village centre.
The essence of exclusivity, this brand new mountain home boasts an outstanding executive address with true international appeal. Set on a private, peaceful plot of 980m², the property commands 360-degree views of the mountains. Oriented toward views to the south and east, the vistas from this chalet are magnificent, including beautiful sunsets across Les Varins Mountains and a good aspect of Mont Blanc.
Guaranteeing that extra level of privacy, the property is surrounded by protected land so nothing can be built around the chalet, a rare find in such a popular spot. Yet despite the seclusion, it is just ten minutes, about 900 metres, from the village centre and 500 metres from the Rochebrune télécabine.
The gorgeous mountain home represents the finest in luxury and refinement. Constructed from traditional materials, it oozes warmth and glamour, a combination of Old World charm and modernity.
Impeccable quality and incomparable taste are evident throughout the 316m² of luxury laid out on three levels. There are five bedrooms and ample living space. The dining and kitchen areas are separated from the living area by a modern feature fireplace. There is an indoor heated swimming pool and a stunning cinema room. As well, the opportunity remains for some customization, since the detached chalet will not be completed until the 2014/15 ski season.
For added comfort, the fine residence comes with parking and plenty of ski storage. Furniture packages are available upon request.
For those selective individuals in search of a coveted Alpine location, inviting and luxurious spaces, with plenty of peace and privacy, here is a property that will captivate and enchant the most demanding buyer.
Price: €3.8 million.
