Best Resorts to Buy Ski Property in the French Alps

France is the leading ski destination for Brits, with around 10 million British tourists visiting the French Alps each year.

The Alps are renowned for their breathtaking beauty, world-class ski resorts, and a wide range of outdoor activities, making them an ideal destination for outdoor lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone who enjoys invigorating fresh air.

When Are Ski Resorts Opening in 2026?

The ski resorts in the Alps are scheduled to start the winter season at the end of November (Chamonix and Val Thorens).

Last winter, a few stations opened in early November because of abundant fresh snowfall and continued accumulation. We hope the new season begins early again in 2026.

The last few years were exceptional ski seasons for mountain and tourism professionals, who had struggled recently. They are excited to make this year a repeat of that success.

Dates for Ski Resorts in the French Alps for 2026/2027

Below is the full list of opening and closing dates for the upcoming 2026/2027 season.

Before planning a trip to your favourite Alpine resort, we recommend checking the French school holiday dates, as the slopes can be very busy with families enjoying a winter break, particularly in February and March.

Ski Resorts Opening in November 2026, Closing in May 2027

• Val Thorens from 21st November 2026 until 2nd May 2027
• Chamonix from 21st November 2026 until 2nd May 2027
• Tignes from 21st November 2026 until 2nd May 2027
• Val d’Isère from 28th November 2026 until 2nd May 2027
• Les Deux-Alpes from 28th November 2026 until 2nd May 2027

Ski Resorts Opening in December 2026, Closing in April 2027

• Courchevel from 5th December 2026 until 18th April 2027
• La Clusaz from 5th December 2026 until 25th April 2027
• Méribel from 5th December 2026 until 18th April 2027
• Les Ménuires from 5th December 2026 until 18th April 2027
• L’Alpe d’Huez from 5th December 2026 until 25th April 2027
• Serre-Chevalier from 5th December 2026 until 18th April 2027
• Le Grand-Bornand from 12th December 2026 until 11th April 2027
• Avoriaz from 12th December 2026 until 18th April 2027
• Flaine from 12th December 2026 until 18th April 2027
• La Rosière from 12th December 2026 until 18th April 2027
• Les Arcs from 12th December 2026 until 25th April 2027
• La Plagne from 12th December 2026 until 25th April 2027
• Mégève from 12th December 2026 until 11th April 2027
• Les Gets from 19th December 2026 until 11th April 2027
• Morzine from 19th December 2026 until 18th April 2027
• Les Houches from 19th December 2026 until 11th April 2027

Sources : 

• Skiworld - Europe projected opening dates
• Guide Ski - Opening Dates 2026-2027
• Mountain Marker - Ski-season-calendar-2026-27

What Are the Best Resorts in the Alps?

In this article, we explore some of the best ski resorts in the French Alps, including Val d’Isère, Combloux, Les Carroz and Tignes. Each destination blends natural beauty with 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 such as 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 recognition highlights the resort’s exceptional skiing, it is only a fraction of what the destination offers. 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 benefited significantly 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 on a new meaning, with events such as Critérium de la Première Neige and establishments like La Folie Douce further contributing to its 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 for skiers of 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 splendour and forward-thinking approach to tourism, Chamonix sets the gold standard for Alpine resorts.

Ski in Combloux on a Budget

Combloux is just 4 kilometres away from Mégève, 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 part of the renowned Mont Blanc area in southeastern France, the town’s 2,000 residents also have access to 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 ambience 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, rental management agencies in this area can help manage buy-to-let income.

L’Alpe d’Huez, voted Best Ski Resort

Recognised as the best ski resort in the country, this destination in the French Alps has implemented numerous urban projects, including Les Deux Alpes, to enhance skiing opportunities.

In the summer, the resort offers activities for both novice and seasoned skiers. Visitors can also take part in other activities, such as dog sledging and an alpine coaster ride. 

Major property developments have added 4,600 new beds (4- and 5-star), including a Club Med resort, contributing to the resort’s growing reputation in recent years.

Whether you are looking to buy property in this resort or invest in a ski resort, this location is an excellent choice.

The Five Villages of Tignes

Tignes, a ski resort situated beneath Val d’Isère, offers easy access to the Espace Killy area, providing 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 recognised for its eco-friendly practices, earning a global green certification for its efforts in preserving the environment.

This stunning resort comprises five charming villages, each with its unique character and amenities, including the family-friendly Les Brévières. Tignes has undergone a complete makeover, featuring 4- and 5-star 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.

The inauguration of a flagship Club Med resort, along with the free, newly refurbished funicular to Bourg-Saint-Maurice and its high-speed train station, makes it a resort resolutely turned towards the future.

Morzine - Portes du Soleil

Morzine, in the Portes du Soleil ski area, is an idyllic resort that offers much more than 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, 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 modern touch have elevated the resort’s level.

Méribel - The Heart of the Three Valleys

Méribel sits in the heart of the renowned Three Valleys ski area and is a beautiful resort with traditional Savoyard architecture, complemented by stunning mountain vistas. It is a key hub in the world’s largest linked ski area, providing access to 600km of slopes and over 180 lifts, catering to winter sports enthusiasts of all levels. 

In the summer, Méribel offers a range of activities, including hiking, golf, and mountain biking, and is renowned for its vibrant après-ski scene and family-friendly atmosphere. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, from cosy apartments to luxurious chalets.

In recent years, significant investment in high-end facilities and eco-friendly initiatives has solidified Méribel’s reputation as a top-tier Alpine resort that 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. Its ski-in/ski-out design offers convenience, and it also provides a range of activities for non-skiers. 

Val Thorens has evolved into a resort that combines functionality with luxury, offering a range of accommodation options from practical apartments to 5-star hotels, along with lively post-ski activities 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.

With altitudes ranging from 2642 m (Col du Galibier) to 1200 m (Briançon), and towering glaciers, the valley enjoys the sun-drenched warmth of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.

The ski area, which comprises 70% of its terrain above 1,800 metres, receives ample snow and attracts tourists. In summer, the mountain passes made famous by the Tour de France attract cyclists from across Europe.

Why Buy Property in the French Alps?

Living in the Alps 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 boast a rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional customs, festivals, and a diverse array of delicious local cuisine.

Whether you are looking for a peaceful mountain retreat or an adrenaline-filled adventure, the French Alps have something to offer everyone.

Seven Fascinating French Ski Facts

• France boasts the world’s largest ski area, the Three Valleys (Les Trois Vallées), which features 600 km of interconnected slopes.
• The Sarenne run in Alpe d’Huez is the world’s longest black ski run, stretching 16 km.
• French skier Simon Billy set a world speed skiing record of 255.5 km/h (158.9 mph) in 2023 at Vars.
• The first person to ski down Everest was a Frenchman. In 1979, Jean-Marc Boivin set off from the summit of Mount Everest.
• The highest ski lift in France is the Aiguille du Midi cable car in Chamonix, which reaches 3,842 meters and provides access to off-piste skiing on the legendary Vallée Blanche.
• The world’s first ski lift was built in Megève in 1934, transforming skiing into a global sport.
• France attracted over 56.1 million skiers in 2025/2026, making it one of the world’s top ski destinations, ahead of Austria and the USA.

Rental Potential for Investors

The Alpine property market offers a wide range of benefits for potential investors, particularly with the 2030 Olympic Winter Games set to return to the French Alps.

The region has a stable economy and a growing tourism industry, making it an attractive location for property investment. In addition, properties in the region offer strong rental potential, as many tourists visit year-round for skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. 

The market also offers a diverse range of properties, from traditional mountain chalets to modern apartments featuring luxurious amenities. The Alpine lifestyle is also highly sought after, with stunning scenery, fresh mountain air, and a healthy outdoor lifestyle.

Take the Plunge in Alpine Style!

Explore our collection of ski chalets and apartments. Our portfolio offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and requirement. Each listing includes detailed information on the number of bedrooms, the residence’s location, and nearby amenities.

Not sure where to start your search? Take advantage of our multilingual team and investment services in the French Alps.