If you’re dreaming of owning a place in the mountains, it’s probably the snowy slopes and cosy fireside evenings that have captured your imagination. But what if your future ski home could offer just as much joy – and value – once the snow melts?
Across France, more and more mountain roads are closing to cars for parts of the summer to give cyclists exclusive access to some of the country’s most scenic and challenging climbs. It’s called Cols réservés aux cyclistes, and it’s quietly turning classic winter resorts into exciting summer destinations.
So if you’re still searching for your perfect property, it’s worth thinking beyond ski season. You may be familiar with the term of dual seasonality – a ski property that is as useable in the summer as the winter – this is one example of what true dual seasonality looks like.
A chalet or apartment in the right resort could be your ticket to year-round mountain living – or a smarter investment with summer rental potential.
What’s happening in the French Alps?
Between June and October, roads to famous mountain passes like Galibier, Izoard, Granon and Joux Plane are shut to motor traffic for hours at a time. During those closures, cyclists take over the tarmac – climbing car-free through dramatic alpine scenery.
Some areas, like the Hautes-Alpes, go a step further, organising multi-day “grands cols” events where a different pass is closed each day. That attracts cyclists from all over Europe. The Haute-Savoie, Massif Central and even parts of the south are getting involved too.
It’s part of a growing trend to promote mountain regions as active summer destinations – and it’s great news if you’re thinking about buying.
Why should summer cyclists influence your buying decision?
While it’s natural to focus on ski season when buying a mountain property, many of the most rewarding resorts are those that thrive all year round. A home in an area that draws visitors both in winter and summer offers more flexibility, more enjoyment and often better long-term value.
In the warmer months, resorts that attract cyclists see a steady flow of active, often repeat visitors who book longer stays and plan well in advance. These guests look for comfort and practicality, and are often willing to pay more for the right space.
If you're thinking about letting your property when you're not using it, tapping into the summer cycling crowd can significantly increase your occupancy and income.
Beyond rental potential, homes in dual-season destinations tend to hold their value more reliably, thanks to steady demand throughout the year. For many buyers, that’s a compelling reason to think seasonally.
What to look for in a summer-friendly property
As you explore ski homes with summer appeal, it's worth thinking beyond proximity to the lifts or how deep the snow gets in February.
If your future property is going to work for you all year round, especially in areas popular with cyclists, you’ll want to look at how well it supports an active summer lifestyle. Cyclists aren’t just passing through – they often stay for a week or more, travel in pairs or groups, and seek out practical features that make their trip smoother.
Secure bike storage is one of the most important things to consider. That could be a lockable garage, a dedicated room, or even a simple shed – what matters is that guests know their bikes are safe.
Inside, a layout that works for different group types can make a big difference. Think about bedrooms that can be adapted for friends travelling together or couples wanting their own space. A washing machine is another essential. Cyclists go through kit quickly and will appreciate having laundry facilities on hand, especially if they’re staying longer.
Outdoor access also matters. A terrace or balcony where guests can cool down, stretch out or simply admire the view after a morning on the roads adds real appeal. And while not every home needs specialist equipment, small touches like a hose or space to clean bikes can help your property stand out in a growing summer market.
The goal is to make life easy, welcoming and comfortable – not just for skiers, but for anyone who loves the mountains in every season.
Where to start your search
At SnowOnly, we specialise in helping buyers like you find the right ski property – whether it’s for winter holidays, rental income, or long-term relocation. Our listings cover resorts around the world, and our ski resort guides include summer activity info so you can make an informed choice.
If you’re interested in a dual-season property, filter by location and look for resorts with strong summer tourism. Some resorts also host stages of the Tour de France or organise cycling events that draw big crowds – another bonus for rentals.
Don’t stop at snow
The mountains don’t go quiet when the ski season ends – they simply change gear. As the snow melts, resorts reveal a different kind of beauty: lush valleys, cool breezes, sparkling lakes and quiet trails waiting to be explored.
While cyclists make the most of traffic-free passes, they’re far from the only visitors. Hikers, swimmers, nature lovers and families all head to the mountains in summer for space, peace and the chance to reconnect with the outdoors.
If you’re still deciding where to buy, it’s worth thinking about what a resort offers beyond the pistes. A property near a lake or with direct access to hiking routes can be just as attractive in August as it is in February.
Whether you're looking for a place to spend family holidays, planning for retirement or building a future rental income, choosing a resort that’s full of life all year round gives you more options and more enjoyment.
To get the process of buying your ski property underway, why not take a look at our handy ski property buying guides? They lay out the buying journey step by step to make the process as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
