A hidden Alpine gem, the French resort of Châtel is a pretty, authentic Savoie village that has grown into an international ski destination with year-round cachet. Ideally situated for a weekend getaway, Châtel, on the doorstep of the vast Portes du Soleil ski region, is only 75 minutes from Geneva airport.
Portes du Soleil has been one of the biggest and best known ski areas in the world for the last 40 years. It encompasses 12 linked resorts, stretching across the French-Swiss border from Mont Blanc to Lake Geneva. Popular for skiing, snowboarding and almost every other type of winter sport, the area is a Mecca for snow enthusiasts, offering 650 kilometres of marked pistes and over 200 lifts, spread across 14 valleys and 400 square miles (1,036 square kilometres). Today, there are an impressive 289 ski runs on offer.
Châtel has charm in abundance. Postcard views include beautiful chalets, majestic mountains and idyllic surroundings. Yet, Châtel remains very much a traditional Alpine village. Ancient chalets with carved balconies, cobbled streets and a 17th-century church contribute to the unique atmosphere, making the village an appealing location for Alpine holiday homeowners and lifestyle investment buyers.
Situated in the picturesque Abondance Valley, Châtel is just a stone's throw from the Swiss border. The resort is a 4-season playground. Not only does it comprise a part of the Portes du Soleil ski region, a plethora of summer activities such as hiking, biking and riding are all at its doorstep. Châtel has been awarded Famille Plus Montagne status, putting it high on the list of family-oriented resorts in the French Alps. It prides itself on its family-friendly attitudes and facilities.
Châtel is a prime destination for vacation homebuyers, and with ever-dwindling space for new developments, there is huge potential for Châtel real estate to experience strong capital appreciation over the coming years.
In Châtel, particular attention is paid to new generations of development and to preserving the beautiful environment. This new ski property in Châtel echoes the rich cultural heritage of its surroundings – here, tradition has been carefully respected. The resort property adheres to the local style of architecture, making use of regional materials: foundations in stone and façades in natural larch, with balconies and double-pitched roofs only adding to the allure.
The fabulous 4-star development has been designed to optimise the delightful views and south-facing aspect, and creates a wonderful sense of space, light and calmness in true mountain spirit. This phase is limited to 35 spacious apartments, ensuring privacy and exclusivity. The luxurious choices range from 1-bedroom apartments to 3-bedroom duplex residences.
Designed to maximise style and space, each residence has been strategically planned for ultimate functionality and enjoyment. Inside and out, the chalet-style apartments inspire a fairy tale-like atmosphere. Wood and stone are the defining elements of the invitingly decorated interiors, contributing to a warm and cosy feel. There is also a furniture purchase option. Offering elegance, authenticity and welcoming ambience, the luxuriously appointed mountain homes will provide fine Alpine living.
Each apartment comes complete with a fully equipped kitchen, including a multi-function oven, extractor fan, ceramic hob and dishwasher – everything one would need in a luxury second home in the Alps. Bathrooms are superbly appointed with towel dryers and hairdryers. The luxurious apartments boast private outdoor balconies of up to 28m², which extend seamlessly from the stylish indoor living areas.
The highest standards of living comforts are ensured by amenities such as the property’s storeroom and ski locker with boot heater, plus secure underground parking.
Owners will enjoy a life of luxury with the indulgence and convenience of an impressive array of resort facilities and services. The huge reception lounge is fitted with a concierge desk that provides a host of services – everything from the day’s papers and fresh-baked pastries, to small maintenance caretaking.
The resort’s family-friendly approach includes a whole range of facilities specifically for children: a day nursery including their own pool in the play area, qualified guides and group leaders, ski lessons, creative groups, a club for 14-16-year-olds and a special spa.
Owners will have access to an impressive 1,200m² spa and wellness centre, complete with two pools (one reserved for adults and the other for children), Jacuzzis, relaxation area, saunas, steam baths and cardio training room. The luxurious spa offers a full set of treatments, ranging from facials derived from Hindu philosophy, to massages, steam bath and aromatherapy treatments.
Built to exacting specifications, the developer is recognised for first-class construction quality and high-performance buildings. Employing energy efficient and environmentally friendly building practices, they will be aiming for the THPE label (Very High Energy Performance) for this Alpine property. Managed by a well-respected operator, the property will be diligently run and maintained, ensuring hassle-free ownership.
The new ski properties are sold as classic freehold (also known as outright ownership), with no restriction on usage, giving owners maximum flexibility. Investors will own the freehold title to the property, which means they can sell it or pass it on to their beneficiaries in complete confidence.
The elegant ski property enjoys an idyllic and very desirable location, close enough to the ski lifts, yet nestled in a peaceful, private area. The main village is easily accessible on foot (900 metres) or via the efficient resort bus system that stops at the foot of the development.
These mountain homes offer more than just carefree living and convenient access to one of the world’s most legendary ski areas. They offer an array of luxurious amenities and services that are sure to please even the most discriminating taste. Here is the perfect place for that ideal home away from home in the French Alps.
Prices: From €320,000.
