The world is beginning to reopen - cautiously of course - but there are positive signs that a summer escape to the clean, pure air of the mountains might be possible. According to Snow Forecast various resorts in France expect to open at some time in May, while Switzerland and Austria are hoping for June. There will still be some restrictions and safety measures, but with the possibility of a new EU Health Pass launching mid July, and the reduction of quarantine rules, it’s looking likely that you’ll be able to travel overseas and even ski in summer 2021.
Is this a good time to explore ski property?
We think so - as travel continues to change and evolve, many people are seeking alternative ways to spend their leisure time, and seeing a town or village in summer gives you a chance to understand how the resort works. You may be looking at things from an investment point of view, so you need to know your property is in a place that will draw guests all year, or you may be looking for somewhere that will be your personal retreat - a real escape from the rigours of everyday life.
Whether you’re looking for an investment property, an alternative home, or somewhere that offers a bit of both, our property alert system will help you stay ahead of the market.
Where can I ski in summer 2021?
Zermatt is the first place that springs to mind - the Matterhorn Ski Paradise is the highest winter sports area in the alps, with elevations of up to 3899m. Zermatt has superb summer activities too - festivals like Zermatt Unplugged are scheduled to go ahead for July, and there’s some special events this year to mark the 150th anniversary of Lucy Walker’s ascent of the Matterhorn.
Tignes is another clear winner when it comes to summer skiing - the area around the Grand Motte glacier offers a superb summer ski season, plus the resort is buzzing with high energy activities. From an investor’s point of view this is a real dual season resort, with a firm focus on the activity market, with offerings like hiking, paragliding and rafting as well as hot-jumping at Acroland. We’ve got some superb properties near Tignes, such as various apartments at Le Ruitor, which benefits from the leaseback scheme, or somewhere like this stunning character house with wonderful mountain views.
What if I don’t want to ski this summer?
A home in the mountains opens up a host of ways to spend your precious time, be it on holiday, or as a foray into remote working. Somewhere like this four bedroom penthouse in Kaprun is a fantastic year-round base. Kitzsteinhorn glacier offers superb summer hiking (as well as a sound summer ski season), and the beautiful city of Salzburg is nearby for a dose of culture and metropolitan life.
Summer ski property for investors
Nearby Zell am See is a great option for investors. It’s another year round resort with a wide appeal to the rental market. For families and couples seeking a relaxing break, spaces like Lake Zell offer glorious sunbathing and safe swimming, plus there’s mountain railways to explore, mystical forest hikes and great cycling trails that all the family can enjoy.
Mountain biking is a big draw for thrill seekers too - with free ride trails on the glacier and MTB tours amongst the options on offer. Something like this Zell am See investment development is a great way to step into the magic of owning an investment apartment in this beautiful part of the alps.
Escape to the mountains
Picture perfect balconies, brimming with scarlet geraniums, shuttered houses - Grimentz is as close to a quintessential alpine village as you can get. Outside the main ski season you’ll enjoy places like the Moiry reservoir, or a trip to St Leonard - the largest underground lake in Europe. There are activities like animal trails or adventure parks and even the chance to learn to make the local rye bread.
This is a place that knows how to appeal to visitors seeking a slice of alpine paradise, and people searching for the perfect place to relax and recharge. Le Hameau de la Coronne is a superb opportunity if you’re seeking an apartment, while Les Chalets d’Adelaide offers the perfect space for a family retreat.
Samoens is another spot that offers a superb sense of retreat. It’s one of the loveliest French alpine villages, with a long history - it’s been a settlement since the 12th century - and because it’s a real working town you can be sure that there’s no danger of the “ghost town” feel that haunts some purpose built resorts. Samoens is a place for a romantic getaway, with gorgeous restaurants and cool bars, as well as being somewhere that holds excellent appeal for families, with adventure parks and water parks as well as child friendly walking trails on the Haut Giffre. You can throw yourself into events like the Firework and Dance festival or just relax and enjoy the atmosphere and scenery of this pretty, authentic village.
Ski properties in Samoens include options like Les Carlines, a stunning collection of south facing apartments with views of the Giffre valley, or this beautiful five bedroom house just a short walk from the centre. With access to the fabled Grand Massif ski area too, Samoens is a superb choice for skiers, primary home hunters or as an investment opportunity.
Long lazy days or adrenaline fuelled fun - summer 2021 is on
Whether you want to snap up those missed opportunities to enjoy the slopes, find the perfect place to enjoy some time with the family, or finally take the plunge into buying your dream investment, Summer 2021 could well be just the time to explore what the mountains have to offer.
SnowOnly is a ski property portal with a vast array of listings, so you can be sure you’re seeing a great range of ski properties. We’ve investment guides, buyers guides and a host of articles to whet your appetite for a summer of alpine discovery.