Ski Report 2021: Resorts to watch
Experts from across the Knight Frank network handpick the resorts they consider to be primed for growth
4 minutes to read
GRIMENTZ, SWITZERLAND - Annabelle Common
Located to the north of the Canton of Valais, at 1,550 metres, Grimentz’s altitude means its season extends over 20 weeks. Reliable snowfall combined with quiet slopes and a picturesque alpine village appeal to those seeking a tranquil base in the Val d’Anniviers.
Why is the area up and coming?
The resort’s owners have ploughed over CHF26m into the resort resulting in better lifts, including a new cable car connecting Grimentz to the neighbouring resort of Zinal. The area is becoming more popular with cyclists and trail runners.
My favourite bits
Going off-piste in Grimentz is a treat given the slopes don’t get tracked out. Plus, skiers get to enjoy a 360-degree view of the five peaks, including the Matterhorn.
Who’s buying?
Along with the rest of the Val d’Anniviers, the resort is popular with Swiss, British and Dutch buyers.
What will my money buy me?
CHF2m will buy a large luxurious fourbedroom chalet in a good location.
The one thing the locals like to keep secret ….
After a night-time tobogganing session, we head to a bar on the piste, Chez Florioz, for live music.
CHAMPERY, SWITZERLAND - Laura Farrand
Surrounded by the Dents du Midi, this authentic alpine village provides skiers with easy access to the Portes du Soleil – which, with over 600km of pistes, is Europe’s largest ski domain.
Why is the area up and coming?
Lower values than neighbouring resorts yet still within easy access of Montreux, Lausanne and Geneva for those seeking a weekend bolthole or a more permanent base in the Alps from which to work from home.
My favourite bits
Excellent sports centre and numerous biking trails as well as traditional Swiss cafes.
Who’s buying?
Young families seeking a small and friendly resort, popular with Swiss and British buyers.
What will my money buy me?
Prices start at CHF1.2m for a twobedroom apartment stretching to CHF2m for a four-bedroom chalet.
The one thing the locals like to keep secret…
A full thermal spa located nearby at Val d’Illiez – The Thermes Parc – where you can drift along the hot river surrounded by snow and mountains.
COURCHEVEL LE PRAZ, FRANCE - Vincent Salm
The most authentic and down-to-earth of the Courchevel resorts, Le Praz has a large permanent population and excellent amenities including its own school, making it a favourite with those seeking a permanent or semi-permanent base.
Why is the area up and coming?
Completed in 2019, the new Le Praz telecabine to 1850 takes just five minutes, plus, the 2023 FIS World Ski Championship will finish in Le Praz giving the resort global exposure.
My favourite bits
The traditional and family-focused restaurants which are set against a charming Alpine village backdrop, Hotel Les Peupliers is a favourite, its mousse au chocolat is a must.
Who’s buying?
French, English and Belgian buyers, particularly those seeking a more understated and low-key setting than Courchevel’s higher altitude resorts.
What will my money buy me?
A chalet in the heart of the village costs between €1m and €1.5m but for a newly-built ski in/out chalet budget around €2m-€4m.
The one thing the locals like to keep secret…
It is where the Morels mushrooms grow!
LES HOUCHES, FRANCE - Caroline Miller
A pretty ski resort with unparalleled views of Mont Blanc, a ten-minute drive from Chamonix and only an hour from Geneva.
Why is the area up and coming?
With land becoming increasingly scarce in the Chamonix Valley, developers are turning towards opportunities in Les Houches with its year-round community and good family skiing.
My favourite bits
Quick access to the trails and slopes both in summer and winter due to the high-speed Prarion gondola and the Bellevue cable car.
Who’s buying?
A popular choice for locals, commuters and second home owners, particularly those seeking a larger property and wanting value for money.
What will my money buy me?
A brand new two-bedroom apartment with balcony in the centre of the village for €355,000 or for a bigger €1m budget a four-bedroom chalet.
The one thing the locals like to keep secret…
Les Houches has the best runs for powder-skiing with the kids.
TELLURIDE, UNITED STATES - Blake Greiner
Located in the San Juan Mountains and set in a box canyon, Telluride is a former mining town with Mountain Village perched above offering ski-in/ski-out living.
Why is the area up and coming?
Buyers are recognising Telluride as a year-round destination offering world-class skiing and outdoor recreation but without the crowds.
My favourite bits
There…Telluride is a favourite cozychic bar, The Butcher & The Baker is a Telluride favourite offering organic, local, homemade bites.
Who’s buying?
Australians are on the increase as our winter climates alternate, enabling them to ski during their summer holidays. Affluent domestic buyers are coming from Texas, Arizona, California, Florida, New York and Illinois.
What will my money buy me?
A pied-à-terre in downtown Telluride will cost around $1m. Budget about $6m for a luxury home in Mountain Village.
The one thing the locals like to keep secret…
Once you arrive in Telluride, there is no real need for a car. Telluride’s gondola system provides free transportation between the towns of Telluride and Mountain Village.
Main photo by Sebastian Staines on Unsplash