A peek into the future of ski resorts

The eagle eyed (or should that be eared?) amongst you will have spotted a brand new series of SnowOnly Podcasts designed to offer unique, real time insight into the mountain property market in our ever changing times. 

In the first episode a lot of ground is covered, Mark and Gareth discuss the impact of the internet on the real estate market, explore where to buy and what powers our buying decisions. There’s also insight into the impact of Covid on the mountain property market and the focus that has renewed status held by a ski resort as an alternative to the city. Losing access to the many distractions of modern life has given a renewed focus on what’s important and the natural wonder and peace of the mountains, alongside time with those we care about, is at the heart of what many people value. 

What does a future of ski resorts look like? 

One of the most interesting points in the podcast ties in with an increasing realisation that environmental changes mean many resorts are looking at a future without snow - or at least with significantly less snow than they have at the moment. Whilst many resorts, as well as local businesses and individuals are taking steps to slow the flow of climate change, there is a reality of shorter seasons and ultimately less skiing - after all, can the damage wrought by snow makers continue to be justified? Can there be a future for mountain towns without snow? 

The answer, thankfully, is a resounding yes. For many people who live in resort towns or villages, they find their favourite time is summer, and more and more home seekers are discovering that benefits of owning a space in a dual season resort. 

The ski lifts will still be there

As will the mountains. So many resorts offer a host of ways to explore and enjoy these unique spaces. Lifts will still whisk people to the higher slopes, where that same sense of perspective, of what really matters, will prevail. For those who will mourn the sheer thrill of the downhill, then the extensive and adrenaline powered world of downhill MTB awaits, while the joy of walking, climbing and simply being is available to all. 

Reduced reliance on skiing

As more and more mountain towns recognise the value of a diverse offering for visitors, alongside the increase in people making a permanent home in the mountains, creativity hotspots are emerging.Many ski towns hold superb festivals. You’ll find full on music festivals like Rock the Pistes in Portes du Soleil, or Snowboxx in Avoriaz, lower key events that showcase local artists and creators, through to fabulous food festivals that dot the alpine calendar. Events like these create a sense of identity for an area, and add another pull alongside the traditional ski-based activities. By building a space that not only offers things to entertain, but ways to develop a community, resorts are creating a future that moves beyond snow, and reduces reliance on skiing as their sole purpose.