Alpine Property Podcast

Continue the great September Alpine road trip from the Tarentaise and Maurienne valleys to the Southern Alps, discovering dramatic mountain passes, historic villages, spectacular landscapes and the golden larch forests of the Queyras.

In this episode of the summer season, Steve Thomas continues the 10–14 day Alpine road trip that began on the shores of Lake Geneva, heading south through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the French Alps.

From the Roseland Reservoir and the world-famous resorts of the Tarentaise to the high-altitude villages of the Haute Maurienne, the historic city of Briançon and the beautiful Queyras, Steve explores a very different side of the French Alps.

This is Part 2 of a two-part journey, completing the route through the Southern Alps and highlighting why travelling slowly can reveal so much more than simply ticking famous resorts off a list.

🏔️ From Roseland to the Tarentaise

The route crosses the Cormet de Roselend before descending into the Tarentaise valley, home to destinations including Tignes, Val d’Isère, Les Arcs and La Plagne.

Steve also discovers Le Monal, a traditional mountain hamlet reached by foot, before continuing towards Val d’Isère and the spectacular Col de l’Iseran, at approximately 2,770 metres.

🏡 Haute Maurienne

The journey continues to Bonneval-sur-Arc, one of France's Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, and nearby Bessans.

A detour to Col de Mont Cenis takes the route towards the Italian border before returning through the Haute-Maurienne and onwards to Valloire.

🚴 Valloire, Galibier & Briançon

Valloire is a popular four-season destination with strong summer appeal, particularly for cyclists. From here, Steve crosses the famous Col du Galibier, at 2,642 metres.

Further south, Briançon combines year-round mountain life with historic Vauban fortifications, while the nearby Clarée Valley offers quieter scenery, mountain lakes and larch forests.

🌄 Into the Queyras

The route continues over Col d’Izoard, including the dramatic Casse Déserte, before entering the Queyras Regional Natural Park.

Steve explores Saint-Véran, one of Europe's highest permanently inhabited villages, surrounded by traditional Alpine architecture and spectacular mountain scenery.

🍂 Autumn in the Alps

September brings quieter roads and the first autumn colours. In the Queyras, the larch forests begin turning gold, orange and copper, creating a beautiful finale to the journey.

Steve also shares practical advice for tackling the Route des Grandes Alpes, including allowing plenty of time, checking mountain pass conditions and being prepared for businesses to close during the inter-season.

In this episode:

🏔️ Cormet de Roselend and the Tarentaise

🚗 Val d’Isère and Col de l’Iseran

🏡 Bonneval-sur-Arc and Bessans

🇮🇹 Col de Mont Cenis

🚴 Valloire and Col du Galibier

🏰 Briançon and the Clarée Valley

⛰️ Col d’Izoard and the Queyras

🍂 Saint-Véran and the golden larches

Visit Alpine Property Investments to explore properties for sale, or contact Steve and Lesley to discuss your requirements.

And if you're visiting the French Alps this autumn, why not combine your trip with some property viewings? The team would be happy to help arrange viewings alongside your Alpine adventure.

Thank you for joining us for the summer series of the Alpine Property Podcast. We'll be back this winter.

Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more!

 

For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:

📧[email protected]

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Episode 73 – The Great September Alpine Road Trip: From Lake Geneva to the Southern Alps – Part 1

Join Steve Thomas on an unforgettable September road trip from Lake Geneva through some of the most spectacular landscapes of the French Alps, discovering charming villages, traditional mountain communities and exciting second-home opportunities along the way.

In this episode, Steve begins an epic 10–14 day Alpine road trip inspired by the famous Route des Grandes Alpes, travelling from Thonon-les-Bains on Lake Geneva through the Haute-Savoie and Beaufortain before reaching the spectacular Roseland Reservoir.

Along the way, he explores traditional villages, famous mountain passes, Alpine lakes, local food and some of the resorts that make this region such an appealing place to visit—and potentially own a second home.

This is Part 1 of a two-part journey, with the adventure continuing south into the Tarentaise, Maurienne and Southern Alps in the next episode.

🚗 Why September is perfect for an Alpine road trip

September offers a completely different perspective on the French Alps.

With the busy summer season coming to an end, the roads become quieter, walking conditions are cooler and mountain views can be beautifully clear. As the journey moves south, the landscape gradually transforms from the greens of summer to the golden, orange and copper colours of autumn.

Steve also explains why timing matters, particularly when crossing the higher mountain passes. Roads such as the Col de l'Iseran, Col de Galibier and Col d'Izoard can close following early snowfall or poor weather.

For the best chance of completing the full route, Steve recommends travelling between the final week of August and the middle of September, while allowing plenty of flexibility rather than trying to complete the journey against the clock.

🌊 Starting at Lake Geneva

The journey begins in Thonon-les-Bains, on the shores of Lac Léman.

Thonon provides a dramatic starting point, with its open lake views, waterfront cafés and nearby vineyards before the road heads into increasingly dramatic Alpine scenery.

Steve recommends beginning at the historic Port de Rives, where visitors can enjoy a walk beside the harbour or take the historic funicular connecting the port with the town above.

For those with additional time, a detour to Yvoire is well worth considering.

This beautiful medieval village, located on a peninsula extending into Lake Geneva, offers:

🏘️ Historic stone buildings

🌸 Flower-covered facades

⚓ Two small harbours

🚪 Medieval gateways

⛵ Boat connections across the lake

🏰 More than 700 years of history

September also offers the chance to experience Yvoire after the busiest summer crowds have disappeared.

🏔️ Into the Chablais Mountains

Leaving Lake Geneva behind, the route follows the Drance Valley towards the Chablais Mountains and the Abondance Valley.

The scenery quickly changes from open lakeside landscapes to forested mountain slopes, traditional farmhouses and narrow Alpine valleys.

The journey's first overnight stop is Abondance, a village closely associated with both its historic abbey and its famous AOP-protected cheese.

In this episode:

🧀 Abondance cheese and local traditions

🏡 Châtel and the Portes du Soleil

🚵 Morzine and Les Gets

🚴 Crossing the Col de la Colombière

🏘️ Le Grand-Bornand and La Clusaz

🏠 Alpine second-home opportunities

🧀 Discovering Beaufort and its famous cheese

💙 The spectacular Roseland Reservoir

🍂 Why September is such a special time in the Alps

And this is only Part 1...

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For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:

📧[email protected]

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Episode 72 – More Than Just an Agent

Discover why buying a property in the French Alps is about much more than finding the right chalet or apartment, and how the right network can make all the difference.

In this episode, Lesley Thomas takes us behind the scenes at Alpine Property Investments to explain what really happens after you decide to buy.

From mortgages and currency exchange to notaries, tax advisers, renovations and property management, Lesley explores the network of trusted professionals built up over more than 20 years and how that experience supports clients throughout the entire buying process.

🏔️ Finding the property is only the beginning

For most buyers, finding the right property feels like the hardest part. But after more than 20 years of helping people buy in the French Alps, Lesley explains why the real challenges often come after you've found the property.

From financing deadlines and exchange-rate movements to French tax requirements and managing a property from thousands of miles away, there are plenty of things that can go wrong without the right support.

That's where experience, relationships and local knowledge become invaluable.

🤝 More than just a property search

Alpine Property Investments isn't simply about sending clients property listings.

The team has built a trusted network of professionals across the French Alps, including:

• Mortgage advisers who understand international and non-resident buyers
• Currency brokers who can help manage exchange-rate exposure
• Notaries experienced in working with overseas purchasers
• Tax advisers specialising in cross-border property ownership
• Architects and interior designers familiar with Alpine properties
• Builders and tradespeople who understand local requirements
• Property managers who can look after homes when owners aren't there

Lesley explains why having the right introduction can be very different from simply having a phone number.

💶 Mortgages & currency

French lending doesn't necessarily work the way buyers expect, particularly for non-residents.

Lesley looks at why getting advice early can help buyers understand:

• How much they may be able to borrow
• What lenders will require
• How long the mortgage process can take
• How financing deadlines affect the purchase

She also explains why currency exchange deserves more attention, particularly when buying with cash or making staged payments on an off-plan property.

Forward contracts and regular currency arrangements can help buyers manage the uncertainty of exchange-rate movements rather than simply accepting whatever rate is available when a payment falls due.

🏔️ The value of 20 years of experience

Over more than two decades, Steve and Lesley have learned not only who is good, but also who isn't.

Steve has visited well over 70% of the resorts in the French Alps, while their experience has helped them build relationships with professionals who understand exactly what international buyers need.

It's a network built through years of transactions, not simply a directory of contacts.

Visit Alpine Property Investments or contact Steve and Lesley to discuss your requirements and find out how they can support you throughout the entire buying process.

🌐 www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk

Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more!

 

For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:

📧[email protected]

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🎙️ Episode 71: Tignes a 4 season second home at altitude

Discover why Tignes is much more than a world-class ski resort, and why its five distinct villages offer exciting opportunities for a four-season Alpine second home.

In this episode, Steve Thomas heads into the Tarentaise Valley to explore Tignes, a high-altitude resort known for snow-sure skiing, dramatic mountain scenery and its extensive year-round activities.

From its fascinating history and five distinct villages to summer sports, winter skiing and the current property market, Steve looks at what makes Tignes such an appealing destination for second homeowners.

🏔️ The story of Tignes

Tignes has a remarkable history. The original village was submerged beneath Lac de Chevril in 1952 following the construction of the Tignes hydroelectric dam.

Today, the resort has reinvented itself at altitude, with five distinct areas offering different styles of Alpine living.

🏡 Five villages, five lifestyles

• Tignes-les-Brévières – Traditional Savoyard charm and a quieter village atmosphere

• Tignes 1800 – Peaceful, family-friendly and increasingly modern

• Le Lavachet – A quieter base close to the main resort facilities

• Tignes-le-Lac – The year-round heart of the resort, beside the lake

• Val Claret – High-altitude living with excellent ski access and lively après-ski

Steve explains how each area could suit a different type of second homeowner.

☀️ Summer in Tignes

Tignes has developed into a genuine summer destination, centred around its 25-hectare natural lake.

Activities include:

🚣 Kayaking and paddleboarding

🚵 Mountain biking

⛳ 18-hole golf at altitude

🥾 Hiking and trail running

🚴 Road cycling

🧗 Climbing and via ferrata

🪂 Paragliding

👨‍👩‍👧 Family activities and watersports

The resort also provides access to the Vanoise National Park and several nature reserves, making it ideal for families and active owners.

🎿 Winter skiing

Tignes links with Val d’Isère to create a renowned 300km ski area, reaching up to 3,456 metres.

With extensive blue, red and black pistes, snow parks, freeride terrain and beginner areas, the domain caters to all abilities.

Beyond skiing, owners can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledging, climbing, wellness facilities and other winter activities.

🚗 Getting there & getting around

Tignes is accessible from several major transport hubs, including Geneva, Lyon, Grenoble and Chambéry, while Bourg-Saint-Maurice provides the nearest major railway connection.

Once there, the resort's free shuttle network connects the different villages, making it possible to enjoy a stay without relying heavily on a car.

🏠 Buying a second home in Tignes

Steve looks at the current property market, including differences between the five villages, apartment availability, pricing and the appeal of both new-build and resale properties.

He also discusses why Tignes can work particularly well for buyers looking for:

• Strong winter skiing

• Genuine summer usage

• High-altitude snow security

• Rental potential across multiple seasons

• Family-friendly facilities

• A long-term lifestyle investment

🏔️ A true 4-season destination

Tignes offers far more than a ski holiday. With its combination of altitude, skiing, lake activities, golf, cycling, hiking and year-round infrastructure, it gives second homeowners plenty of reasons to return throughout the year.

Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more!

 

For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:

📧[email protected]

📧[email protected]

Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/

Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/

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Episode 70 – Top Destinations in the French Alps for Second Homes for Family Summer Holidays

Discover the best French Alpine destinations for family summer holidays and why a second home in the mountains can be a year-round lifestyle investment.

Summer in the French Alps offers a refreshing alternative to Mediterranean holidays, with comfortable temperatures, fresh air, stunning scenery and activities for all ages.

In this episode, Steve Thomas explores top Alpine destinations for families considering a second home for both summer and winter use.

With the rise of the “coolcation”, more families are choosing the Alps for cooler summers without sacrificing sunshine. A second home here can be used year-round for skiing, summer breaks, weekends and active holidays.

Choosing the right destination

Key factors include:

• Accessibility and transfer times
• Family activities (kids to teens)
• Hiking, cycling and mountain biking
• Village facilities and restaurants
• Multi-generational appeal
• Summer events
• Year-round usability
• Lifestyle vs investment value

Morzine, Les Gets & Châtel

The Portes du Soleil is a top family choice, especially Morzine, Les Gets and Châtel, all close to Geneva.

Les Gets is especially family-friendly with its village centre, lake and summer events. Morzine is livelier with sports and activities, while Châtel offers a relaxed village feel and great access to the wider area.

Teens can enjoy biking, rafting and adventure sports, while others benefit from lakes, lifts and cafés.

Chamonix & Megève

Chamonix and Megève offer contrasting lifestyles, both about an hour from Geneva.

Chamonix is active and dramatic with Mont Blanc views, hiking and climbing. Megève is more elegant, with restaurants, spas, golf and gentle outdoor activities, ideal for families.

Tignes & Val d’Isère

For high-altitude summer living, Tignes and Val d’Isère are strong options.

Tignes offers lake activities, biking, hiking and watersports, while Val d’Isère continues to expand its summer programme. Steve will cover Tignes in more detail in Episode 71.

Méribel & Courchevel

The Three Valleys resorts of Méribel and Courchevel offer premium summer experiences.

Méribel has biking, hiking and golf, while Courchevel features Lac des Rosières and Aquamotion. Both are high-end destinations with higher property budgets.

Les Deux Alpes & Alpe d’Huez

For active families, Les Deux Alpes and Alpe d’Huez are excellent choices.

Both offer biking, hiking, swimming and summer lift access, with Alpe d’Huez also famous for its cycling routes.

Samoëns & Saint-Sorlin-d’Arves

Samoëns combines a historic village with outdoor activities and was featured in Episode 22.

Saint-Sorlin-d’Arves is a hidden gem offering hiking, biking, a swimming lake and glacier access, with attractive property prices.

A second home for every season

The French Alps are becoming a leading summer destination for families seeking cooler holidays and outdoor living.

From the Portes du Soleil to Chamonix, Megève, Tignes, Val d’Isère, the Three Valleys and hidden gems, there is a destination for every lifestyle.

A second home here offers year-round use for summer holidays, skiing, weekends and family time.

In this episode:

🏔️ Why the Alps are a “coolcation” hotspot

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 What to consider when buying

🚵 Portes du Soleil family appeal

🏞️ Chamonix vs Megève lifestyles

🌊 Tignes and Val d’Isère summer activities

⛳ Méribel and Courchevel highlights

🚴 Active family resorts

🌸 Hidden gem villages

🏡 Year-round property use

Interested in buying in the French or Swiss Alps?

Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more!

 

For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:

📧[email protected]

📧[email protected]

Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/

Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/

Follow us on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/Alpine-Property-Investments/

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🎙️ Episode 69: A Family Work Trip to the Alps

Ever wondered what it's really like behind the scenes of running an Alpine property business? In this episode of the Alpine Property Podcast, Steve and Lesley take you along on one of their family work trips to the French Alps, where business and mountain life go hand in hand.

From property viewings and meetings with developers to discovering new restaurants, experiencing local resorts, and spending quality time together as a family, they share the realities of combining work with the Alpine lifestyle. Along the way, they discuss current market observations, why regular visits are essential when advising buyers, and the small moments that make every trip memorable.

Whether you're dreaming of owning a second home, curious about life in the Alps, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind the business, this episode offers a genuine look at what goes on beyond the property listings.

🎧 In This Episode

✔️ Why spending time in the Alps is essential for helping buyers make informed decisions

✔️ What really happens during an Alpine property research trip

✔️ Visiting new developments and viewing properties across the French Alps

✔️ Balancing client meetings with family adventures in the mountains

✔️ Favourite restaurants, cafés, and local discoveries along the way

✔️ Current insights into the French Alpine property market

✔️ The importance of experiencing resorts first-hand throughout the seasons

✔️ Why investing in the Alps is about lifestyle as much as property

A drive from top to bottom of St Sorlin d’Arves: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQP8SurqxiQ

🏡 Thinking About Buying an Alpine Property?

Whether you're searching for a ski apartment, a luxury chalet, or an investment property in the French or Swiss Alps, Alpine Property Investments offers independent advice backed by years of local knowledge and experience.

Explore available properties, destination guides, and expert buying advice at:

🌐 www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk

💬 We'd Love to Hear From You

Have a question about buying or owning property in the Alps? Or perhaps there's a destination or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode?

Get in touch—we're always happy to help, and you'll find our contact details on our website and in the podcast show notes.

⭐ Enjoyed This Episode?

If you found this episode helpful, please follow, rate, and review the Alpine Property Podcast wherever you listen. Your support helps us reach more people who are passionate about Alpine living and property investment.

Thanks for listening—we'll see you in the next episode! 🏔️

Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more!

 

For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:

📧[email protected]

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🎙️ Episode 68: Trains, Planes & Automobiles — An Owner’s Insider Advice

In this final episode of the winter season, host Lesley Thomas is joined by special guest Helen Keast—an Alpine property owner sharing her real-life journey into buying, travelling to, and enjoying her apartment in the French Alps.

From discovering a hidden gem in Les Sybelles to navigating the buying process and finding the best ways to travel, this episode is packed with practical insights and honest experiences for anyone considering Alpine property ownership.

🏔️ From First Turns to Property Owner

• Helen began skiing in 2018 and quickly fell in love with the mountains
• Inspired by the podcast, she discovered Les Sybelles—a vast yet under-the-radar ski domain
• Purchased an apartment in 2024 after a focused and search process
• 
  

💡 Key takeaway: You don’t need to be a lifelong skier to invest in an Alpine lifestyle.

📍 Why Les Sybelles?

• One of the largest interconnected ski areas in Europe—yet still a “hidden gem”
• Family-friendly atmosphere with less emphasis on nightlife
• Excellent value compared to more well-known resorts
• Strong rental potential with growing international interest

🏡 Buying Made Simple

• Smooth and fast purchase process (from viewing to ownership in ~3 months)
• Fully digital legal system makes buying from abroad easier than ever
• Off-plan purchase completed quickly with minimal complications

💡 Insight: Modern systems have significantly simplified overseas property buying.

🚆 Travel Smart: Train vs Plane

Helen shares her preferred route—and why she now favors train travel:

• UK → London → Eurostar → Paris → TGV → Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne
• Comfortable, scenic, and surprisingly cost-effective
• Comparable door-to-door time vs flying
• Less stress, more “holiday feel” from the start

✨ Pro tip: Book early and consider upgrading to Eurostar Plus for added comfort.

❄️ Life as an Owner

• Regular visits across both winter and summer seasons
• Quality family time—especially skiing with her son
• Relaxed resort vibe with great amenities but no overwhelming crowds

☀️ Beyond Ski Season

Les Sybelles shines year-round:

• 🚵 Mountain biking, hiking, and high-ropes courses
• 🧖‍♀️ Spa days and relaxation spots
• 🏊 Poolside lounging and lake swimming
• 🏃‍♀️ High-altitude fitness and outdoor activities

🍽️ Food & Drink Highlights

Helen’s personal favourites include:

• 🍔 La Table du Grizzly – a hit for burger lovers
• 🍷 Les Alpes – reliable, varied dining all season
• 🍝 L’Izarelle – dining with piste-side views
• 🧀 Blue Ice – standout value and unforgettable tartiflette

💰 Rental & Investment Insights

• Strong demand during peak winter months (Jan–early March)
• Hands-off rental management makes ownership easy
• Combination of lifestyle enjoyment + financial return

💡 Perspective: A compelling alternative to traditional investments—“investing in lifestyle.”

🚀 Final Thoughts

Helen’s experience highlights why Les Sybelles is gaining attention:

• Accessible, affordable, and authentic
• Ideal for families and lifestyle investors
• Strong potential for future growth

🔗 Property in the Podcast

https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/005108/

If you’re considering buying a property in the Alps or want to explore current opportunities:

👉 Visit Alpine Property Investments

👉 Browse available listings and expert insights

👉 Get in touch to discuss your goals and options

Thanks for listening to this season of the Alpine Property Podcast. We’ll be back soon with more insights—until then, enjoy the mountains, wherever you are.

Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more!

 

For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:

📧[email protected]

📧[email protected]

Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/

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In this episode of the Alpine Property Podcast, Steve Thomas explores Courchevel, one of the most iconic ski destinations in the world, set within the vast Les Trois Vallées. As the resort celebrates its 80th anniversary during the 2025 to 2026 season, this episode takes a deeper look at its origins, evolution and why it remains one of the most desirable alpine destinations for visitors and property buyers alike.

A Vision Ahead of Its Time

Originally conceived in 1942 by Laurent Chappis and Maurice Michaud, Courchevel was designed as a purpose built ski resort that would exist in harmony with its surroundings. The vision prioritised low rise architecture, minimal environmental impact and seamless integration between lifts, slopes and accommodation. The now standard concept of ski in ski out living was pioneered here, setting a blueprint that many resorts still follow today.

Four Villages, Four Experiences

Courchevel is made up of four distinct villages, each offering its own atmosphere, lifestyle and property profile:

• Le Praz (1300): a traditional Savoyard village with cobbled streets, chalets and a strong sense of community. It offers a quieter pace and excellent value while still providing fast lift access to the wider ski area
• Courchevel Village (1550): a balanced and family friendly setting with easy slope access and excellent amenities, including Aquamotion, a modern complex with pools, spa and leisure facilities
• Moriond (1650): lively and well connected, popular with international buyers and known for its vibrant atmosphere, accessibility and strong rental demand
• 1850: the jewel in the crown, offering luxury at the highest level with five star hotels, fine dining, designer boutiques and some of the most exclusive ski properties in the Alps

World Class Skiing

Courchevel delivers exceptional skiing, both locally and across the Trois Vallées:

• Around 150km of pistes within Courchevel alone
• 85 percent of slopes above 1800m, ensuring reliable snow conditions
• A full spectrum of terrain from beginner areas to advanced off piste routes
• Direct access to the wider Trois Vallées network, offering over 600km of skiing

Modern lift infrastructure ensures efficient movement across the resort, allowing skiers to maximise their time on the mountain.

Beyond the Slopes

Courchevel is far more than just a ski destination, offering a rich lifestyle experience year round:

• Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross country skiing, dog sledding and ice skating
• Summer transforms the resort into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, golf and outdoor adventure
• Luxury shopping in 1850 features brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Prada
• A world class dining scene, including Michelin starred restaurants like Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc, alongside traditional Savoyard cuisine across all villages

Accessibility

Despite its alpine setting, Courchevel is highly accessible:

• Around 2 hours from Geneva and Lyon
• Train access via Moûtiers, followed by a short transfer
• Private arrivals via its renowned altiport, one of the most unique in the world

Property Opportunities

Courchevel offers a diverse range of property options, catering to different budgets and objectives:

• Le Praz: excellent value and authentic alpine living
• 1550 and 1650: strong balance between lifestyle use and rental potential
• 1850: ultra prime real estate with global demand and premium pricing

Whether you are seeking a second home, a rental investment or a long term base in the Alps, Courchevel provides flexibility, prestige and long term appeal.

Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more!

 

For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:

📧[email protected]

📧[email protected]

Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/

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In this episode of the Alpine Property Podcast, Lesley is joined by Adam Day, a client who recently purchased a beautifully renovated chalet in Saint-Sorlin-d'Arves, part of the Les Sybelles ski domain in the French Alps.

Adam shares the full story behind his journey from long standing family ski holidays to owning a chalet of his own in the mountains. What began as a search for a simple apartment across multiple European countries ultimately led him and his family to a hidden gem in the Maurienne Valley.

This is a real, honest account of what it feels like to move from dream to reality.

From Family Holidays to Alpine Ownership

Having spent years skiing in resorts such as Les Gets, Chamonix and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Adam and his wife Nikki reached a new stage of life.

With their children now grown and no longer tied to school holidays, the timing finally felt right to invest in a property of their own.

Initially searching across France, Italy and Austria, they refined their criteria to focus on:

• A genuine dual season resort
• Accessible skiing without extreme terrain
• Strong summer hiking and outdoor activities
• Good value within budget
• A relaxed, authentic alpine atmosphere

That brief ultimately led them to Saint Sorlin.

Discovering a Hidden Gem

Like many buyers, Adam had never heard of Les Sybelles before beginning his search.

After spending time skiing in the area and getting to know the village, it became clear that this was not a high profile “see and be seen” resort, but something arguably better: a traditional French village with character, charm and year round appeal.

For Adam and his family, that balance of authenticity and practicality was exactly what they were looking for.

Apartment Search to Chalet Vision

Interestingly, Adam originally set out to buy an apartment.

However, during a viewing trip he was introduced to a derelict chalet with potential. What followed was a leap of faith backed by confidence in the developer, the build quality of previous projects and the guidance of the Alpine Property Investments team.

The result is a fully renovated chalet designed around family use, comfort and long term enjoyment.

Adam talks candidly about:

• The importance of trusting the right developer
• The French legal process and how it compares to the UK
• Digital signing and how the buying process has evolved
• Setting up utilities, taxes and ongoing management

His experience highlights how smooth the process can be with the right professional support.

First Arrivals and First Impressions

The first night in the chalet delivered exactly what they had hoped for.

A comfortable, beautifully designed home.

Dinner out at a local restaurant.

A sense of arrival.

Since purchase, the property has already been used extensively in both summer and winter, with hiking trips, family stays and ski holidays forming part of their new rhythm.

Saint Sorlin offers:

• Easy access to skiing
• Walkable village amenities
• Family friendly infrastructure
• Relaxed après ski options
• Space to breathe

And for this season in particular, exceptional snowfall.

Why Saint Sorlin Works

Adam makes an important point. No resort is all things to all people.

Saint Sorlin is not ultra glitzy. It is not Courchevel. It is not about high end designer boutiques or Michelin starred dining.

It is about:

• Value
• Authenticity
• Accessibility
• Family atmosphere
• Dual season living

And for many buyers, that combination is exactly what makes it so compelling.

Property of the Podcast

 

Brand new 3 – 4 bedroom apartments for sale:

https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/005057/

 

Chalet at €1,040,000:

https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/004977/

Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more!

 

For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:

📧[email protected]

📧[email protected]

Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/

Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final instalment of this three part mini series, Steve and Lesley Thomas conclude their in depth discussion on how to choose the right Alpine resort based on lifestyle, budget, investment goals, and long term return.

Drawing on over 20 years of experience advising buyers across the French Alps, this episode moves beyond lifestyle preferences and into the practical realities of value for money, capital growth, rental income, and where to invest for the strongest returns.

Recorded during one of the busiest ski seasons since Covid, Steve shares current market insight including increased buyer motivation, rising enquiry levels, stronger sales activity, and a noticeable shift in investor behaviour.

This episode brings together everything discussed in Parts One and Two, helping listeners align resort choice not just with how they want to live, but with how they want their property to perform.

Topics Covered in This Episode

• Current market conditions across the French Alps and what is driving buyer demand
• The best resorts for spring skiing and late season snow surety
• Key altitude, slope orientation, and infrastructure factors for reliable snow conditions
• Resorts that combine skiing with rock climbing, paragliding, and other outdoor pursuits
• Where to buy if remote working flexibility is important
• Alpine resorts with casinos and true thermal spa facilities
• The top destinations for luxury lifestyles and prime property markets
• Where to buy if headline resorts such as Val d’Isere, Courchevel, Meribel, and Megeve are out of reach
• Satellite villages and emerging regions offering lower costs per square metre
• The Maurienne Valley and Les Sybelles as value driven alternatives with dual season appeal
• Factors influencing long term capital growth including infrastructure investment and limited supply
• Extended winter season versus dual season rental strategies
• The realities of rental yield, agency fees, occupancy levels, and value driven demand

Steve also explains how buyer behaviour is evolving, with more clients seeking lifestyle acquisitions funded by restructuring existing portfolios, alongside overseas investors diversifying capital into the French Alps.

The episode provides practical examples of current price points across both prime and value focused resorts, highlighting how strategy, timing, and location selection can significantly influence both enjoyment and financial return.

Investment and Rental Considerations

For listeners focused on return on investment, the discussion explores:

• Resorts with diminishing development land and limited new build supply
• Locations benefiting from confirmed or proposed infrastructure improvements
• The impact of altitude and season length on rental weeks
• Why value driven ski domains such as Les Sybelles can outperform expectations on occupancy
• The importance of property positioning, views, ski access, and agency fees when calculating net yield

Steve also addresses a common misconception that dual season resorts automatically generate stronger returns, explaining how longer winter seasons in high altitude resorts can balance the equation.

Thinking About Buying in the Alps

This three part series has been designed to help buyers think strategically about resort selection, not simply emotionally.

If you are considering purchasing a property in the French or Swiss Alps and would like to explore which resort best suits your lifestyle and investment objectives, visit:

www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk

You will find a wide selection of properties for sale along with contact details to arrange a consultation or viewing during your next visit to the mountains.

Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more!

 

For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:

📧[email protected]

📧[email protected]

Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/

Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.