Is altitude all that matters? The 2023 ski property report from Knight Frank has interesting figures that suggest buyers are looking for more in their ideal ski home than simply being at altitude.
Megeve is a ski resort that is proud of its wide ranging appeal, its heritage and its stunning surroundings. It's a resort with a strong eye for the future, and investment in infrastructure, as well as maximising natural appeal seems to be paying off.
With year on year growth of 6.9% it sits in the top ten of annual % change to Q2 2022, despite the modest altitude of 1,100 metres and unlike many other lower altitude resorts, When compared with towns at similar altitude Megeve demonstrates the capacity to command a healthy price per square metre.
This article will look at what buyers want from their ski homes, and how Megeve has captured the hearts and minds of ski home hunters with a range of buying power.
A shift in what people want from their ski homes
The Knight Frank report also highlights important stats about what people are really hoping for from their ski property. The Ski Sentiment survey shows that 27% of people are looking for a year round resort – somewhere that offers a great place to be in every season.
This ties in with societal shifts around hybrid working, and a change in the way people view their ski homes. Whilst the majority – 30% - are looking for a second home/rental opportunity, around 26% of buyers are looking for a co-primary ski property.
Understanding these stats means the need for a year round resort becomes crystal clear. People want somewhere to live and work, as well as somewhere that is attractive to the rental market and altitude is only a small factor in creating this type of desirability.
Being aware that the needs of holidaymakers and buyers are shifting towards seeking a year round town with a healthy dose of authenticity means buyers can make informed decisions as both resident and investor.
What makes Megeve stand out?
Megeve delivers a year round resort with style. The skiing is superb, of course. With 268 km of slopes the resort offers an interesting area of pine forests, sweeping runs for all skill levels, vistas dotted with alpine farmhouses and an impressive freestyle area. More than this it offers a beautiful village centre, complete with mediaeval square, narrow streets, charming bell tower – pretty much everything you’d expect if you googled “alpine charm” . It’s stunning, all year round.
Good looks only go so far though and Megeve’s year round credentials run deep.
A sense of authenticity runs through the village. This is a place that has drawn skiers since the nineteenth century, and been home to alpine dwellers for many years before that. Historic village tours give a flavour of the rich heritage of the area, and various museums and cultural events show the multifaceted nature of this alpine retreat.
Gastronomic excellence in Megeve means elevated interest
This rich and varied heritage means Megeve has a thriving gastronomic scene, with everything from casual supper spots to a clutch of Michelin starred and Bib Gourmand establishments.
Megeve is moving into the spotlight with more and more luxury properties coming to market and as this appetite for luxury grows, the need for excellent dining follows. Megeve has no fewer than five Michelin starred restaurants - quite a coup for a town of this size.
Nightlife offers cosy bars with panoramic Soleil d’Or views, as well as clubs where you can dance until the small hours.
If that all sounds too much, fear not – there are some outstanding well-being centres to help you restore balance and beauty to your life, all against the backdrop of stunning mountain scenery and whilst enjoying clear mountain air. Megeve is home to the flagship spa of the prestigious Pure Altitude brand where multi-sensory spas draw inspiration from nature to harness energies from the five natural elements and create a perfect place to relax and recharge.
Summer activities in Megève
Cycling is big news here. The MB race takes place each year offering a range of challenges across the breath-taking trails of Pays du Mont-Blanc. There are numerous memorable mountain bike runs, such as the Ridges of Rochebrune, or Megeve Jaillet, as well as various trails for all ages and abilities.
Away from two wheeled fun, you’ll find climbing, hiking. swimming and various adventure parks designed with little ones in mind. You can enjoy rope parks, zip lines and a four seasons luge, before heading back to watch the sun play over the mountains.
Ski Infrastructure in Megeve
Another key driver behind Megeve’s appeal is its continued investment in infrastructure. Even here Compagnie de Mont Blanc maintains Megeve’s unique cachet. Simple details such as making sure the brand new Caboche lift is the same hue first seen on the slopes way back in 1933 shows that this is a resort with respect for its past, and a keen eye on the future.
Faster lifts for the coming season mean skiers can enjoy the range of runs available at Cote 2000, and a brand new drag lift will link the prestigious Four Seasons complex with Mandarines on Mont d’Arbois.
How do property prices in Megeve compare with towns at similar altitude?
Megeve stands out from towns at similar altitude by dint of its ability to command higher prices per square metre. If we look at Megeve (1,100 altitude) and Les Gets (1,172 altitude)or Morzine (1000m) the difference in price is significant.
Property in Megeve is currently €15,000 per square metre, whereas Property in Les Gets and Morzine commands around €10,000 per square metre. This difference shows that the level of future investment, focus on high quality gastronomy and entertainment and an impressive program of year round activities places Megeve in a unique place of being in high demand, despite lower altitude.
When compared with the price per square metre of resorts like Courchevel which currently commands €27,200 per square metre, Megeve offers an irresistible combination of desirability and exceptional value.
Megeve has a superb choice of ski property
Megeve offers a fantastic range of ski properties. Those seeking a new build residence, complete with five-star hotel-style facilities will find a host of options.
If you are looking for co-primary dwelling, you’ll find substantial stand-alone homes, as well as spacious apartments. The variety of property makes for a vibrant, varied community which in turn creates an atmosphere that makes people want to return.
Despite lacking on the lofty height front, Megeve has an appeal that goes beyond excellent skiing, and seems to spark a flame in people’s hearts.
Combine this with the outstanding facilities, mountain views and sheer practicality of the place (Megeve is just over an hour from Geneva airport) and it’s clear that there’s more to ski resort appeal than altitude alone.
Buy ski property in Megeve
If Megeve sounds like somewhere you’d like to live for part of the year, or you’d like to explore the second home/rental market opportunities, SnowOnly is a great place to start.
We are a dedicated ski property portal with access to thousands of properties. You can use our property alert service to design your own property search and be confident you’re seeing the best of the market, without the pain of trawling through countless agency and resale sites.
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May 22, 2023
