A family-friendly guide to buying property in the Alps

Few holidays bring together the generations like a trip to the Alps; from its world-class skiing and outdoor activities to high-end dining, shopping and entertainment, there is truly something for all the family. However, as any parent knows - especially those with younger children - ensuring the trip is a success takes careful planning. This is especially true when investing in a holiday home, where selecting the right resort and property can provide the perfect foundation for unforgettable family memories for years to come.  

Convenience is key

For Laetitia Hodson, a Partner at Knight Frank within the International Residential Department, convenience should be top of the list. “Bear in mind that your little ones will be in their ski boots and have to carry their skis, so the shorter the distance to the skiing the better,” she advises. “Opt for properties close to the ski lift or even better, ski in/ski out chalets where you are right on the slope.” A prime example is this stunning 5-bedroom chalet, ideally located in the sought-after Chavannes area of Les Gets. Think too about the amount of green and blue runs, allowing budding learners to find their feet without the mountains getting too steep. 

Additionally, consider the travel time to the resort itself, with those in easy reach of key transport hubs helping avoid lengthy car rides with restless kids. Destinations such as Megève, Morzine and Chamonix are within around an hour’s drive of Geneva airport, with outdoor fun to be enjoyed year-round. In the latter, this luxurious newly built 5-bedroom chalet near the Grands Montets ski area offers the perfect setting to explore all the resort has to offer.

Location, location, location

While skiing is undoubtedly a top priority, it’s equally important to think about the variety of activities available for all family members. “When holidaying in the Alps you often have 3 generations of the family under one roof,” she says. “It’s all about celebrating this time together.” 

Popular destinations like Verbier and Courchevel 1850 shine in this area, offering a wealth of outdoor and indoor sports, along with excellent childcare services. Meanwhile, charming, traditional villages such as Saint-Martin-de-Belleville have a relaxed, child-friendly atmosphere with less emphasis on après-ski. When considering where to buy for long-term investment potential, Knight Frank’s Alpine Report offers a breakdown of the current market conditions, while the Ultimate Resort Guide offers a detailed comparison between destinations. 

In a peaceful location close to the slopes, this 5-bedroom chalet complete with wellness facilities offers a spacious retreat from which to experience Courchevel 1850 to its fullest. “Due to the way the resort is built, most properties will be within easy reach of skiing,” she describes. “It also has the Le Village des Enfants - the Children’s Village - offering ski lessons and childcare services in one convenient location, so it's very easy for parents to drop their kids off and go and ski, or play with them in the centre.”  

The perfect property

With extended family and friends visiting, choosing a chalet with a generous provision of bedrooms is a must. However, it’s important to also factor in the size and layout of the rest of the building. “The most desirable properties have living areas that match the sleeping accommodation for the family. If you have a large chalet that can sleep 10 people, but the sitting area only caters for 6, then that’s not going to work,” Hodson notes. Those with separate spaces to entertain children - whether it’s a playroom, games room, or cinema - are particularly popular with families.

Its where properties such as this exceptional 10-bedroom chalet excel, positioned in a highly desirable and private location in Verbier with direct access to the Moulins piste. Its spacious interior is spread over 5 floors, including vast living spaces perfect for larger gatherings featuring floor-to-ceiling windows providing breathtaking views over the mountains.

Of course, it’s important for the adults to have time to relax too, with properties often benefitting from enhanced wellness and entertaining amenities. A standout example is this 12-bedroom chalet in Crans-Montana, which offers a sprawling 1,352 sq m of living space, complete with an indoor pool, sauna, hammam, and a wine cellar and tasting room - everything you need for a truly indulgent retreat. Just a short walk from the centre and close to the ski lifts, it offers an unparalleled experience of this renowned Swiss resort. 

Discover more insights in Knight Frank’s Alpine Report or contact our International Residential Property team.