Keen to buy a ski property in one of the world’s most exclusive resorts? But what defines exclusivity?
Not just a superb skiing terrain but an atmosphere: fine-dining, luxury boutiques and beautiful hotels. Bearing those features in mind, we’ve handpicked four ski resorts that scream “exclusive”.
Courchevel, France
Courchevel is the place to ski in style. While all Courchevel is known for its chic boutiques, upscale hotels and fine dining, the highest village, Courchevel 1850 is the most exclusive. It’s frequented by high-net-worth individuals, famous faces and even royalty. Visitors have the option to arrive by private jet or helicopter, as the resort has its own landing strip.
When it comes to fine dining, you are spoiled for choice. Courchevel is home to Le 1947 à Cheval Blanc, which offers three an intimate dining experience and boasts of three Michelin stars. There’s also Le Chabichou by Stéphane Buron, with a humbler two Michelin stars.
Courchevel is part of the world’s largest ski resort, Les 3 Vallées. On a single ski pass, you’ll be able to glide over to the resorts of Val Thorens, and Méribel. Since over 80% of the ski runs are 1,800m or higher, the ski season is long, and the snow is plentiful.
Real estate: On the SnowOnly property portal, we have over 150 listings in Courchevel. From modern five-bedroom chalets to cosy studios, Courchevel has an exciting array of options for prospective buyers.
Property prices are reflective of Courchevel’s status as a highly sought after resort. For those seeking a high-end property, we have homes with stand-out features like a private swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi and a private gym.
Cortina, Italy
The Queen of the Dolomites, Cortina possesses a truly exclusive atmosphere. While slightly on the smaller side compared to other major resorts, Cortina still offers an excellent range of skiing terrain: with the Dolomiti Superski offering an impressive 3.7 mile descent, while the Tofana skia area is terrific for snowboarding.
What makes Cortina special is how quintessentially Italian its version of luxury is: here, fashion and fine dining are just as important as the slopes. Corso Italia, a pedestrianised street, is lined with the latest trends. Discover a choice of artisan workshops, art galleries and famous jewellers.
Cortina has thirty-two restaurants featured in the Michelin Guide, with Tivoli, SanBrite and Tilia all being favourites. The après-ski scene is legendary, highlights include the atmospheric Enoteca wine bar, which opened in the 50s and Hotel de la Poste bar, which was frequented by Elizabeth Taylor and Henry Fonda. Plus, you can enjoy a different kind of luxury on a day trip to Venice, which is just two hours away.
Real estate: Cortina is a popular second home haunt amongst those from Rome and Milan, but its good connections to the rest of Europe means that it still has traction with international buyers too. The centre of the resort and the Pecol area are the most sought-after. Browse through our listed properties there here.
Gstaad, Switzerland
Gstaad boasts of an old-fashioned charm that has captured the hearts of A-listers for years. It has been a holiday favourite for the likes of Sir Roger Moore, Madonna, Dame Julie Andrews and even Princess Diana.
It is home to the Gstaad Palace with its famous La Fromagerie, arguably, the most luxurious hotel in all of Switzerland. The resort is laid out beautifully with the Gstaad Palace as a focal point, surrounded by traditional chalets, which are lit up with white lights at night and a pedestrianised centre. Plus, skiers can explore 200km of slopes, and a snow-sure altitude of up to 3,000m on the Glacier 3000. Gstaad also has its own airport for light aircraft and helicopters.
Real estate: While many see Gstaad as the perfect place to own a second home, it is gaining increasing attraction as somewhere to permanently move, due to its prestigious international schools. Gstaad is a great place to look for traditional style chalets but there are a growing number of homes with a modern chic feel, take a digital roam through our listings here.
Aspen, United States
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, Aspen has cultivated a distinctly cosmopolitan feel.
It is a haven for shoppers with brands such as Ralph Lauren, Gucci and Fendi to indulge in between skis. Another great aspect of Aspen is its thriving art scene, with over fifty galleries. It is home to two exclusive hotels: Hotel Jerome has been the social hub since 1889, at the height of the silver boom, while The Little Nell is Aspen’s only five-star, five-diamond ski-in/ski-out hotels. Plus, the cuisine is delectable, having attracted chefs from Los Angles and New York. Neither does the skiing disappoint: the terrain is vast and varied, with the option to slide over to Snowmass for more. Adding to the resort’s exclusivity is the private airport.
Real estate: Aspen has a diverse property market. If you are after a modern, turn-key property, you’re in luck. The norm here is open-plan living space, air-conditioning, stainless appliances, a wood burning fireplace and access to a heated swimming pool. Condominiums often have features like a concierge service, daily housekeeping and even in-house rental management. You can browse our properties for sale in Aspen here.
Exclusive Ski Resorts
From Courchevel to Aspen, these splendid ski resorts represent more than just remarkable runs. They're the epitome of elegance, offering a blend of breath-taking beauty, luxury living, and gourmet gastronomy. Perhaps they could also be home to your dream property.
Apr 22, 2024
