Situated in the wondrous Alpenregion Bludenz of Austria, Brand offers some of the most enjoyable skiing and snowboarding experiences in the country. However, Brand is much more than a straightforward skiing resort and boasts stunning scenery and a welcoming, homely feel. The landscape is dotted with evergreen trees which stand majestically among the elegant white snowscape.
With incredible views and quaint authentic wooden chalets nestled among the hills, it’s easy to see why this picturesque town has become a favourite among UK holidaymakers who return each winter to enjoy some serious sports and relaxation.
The winter season at Brand runs between the beginning of December up until the end of March, and the resort has been long-established as a firm favourite among skiers of all abilities, with increasing numbers of visitors year-on-year. This makes the upcoming winter season the ideal time to look into buying a property in Brand. Apartments and chalets tend to go on the market for anything between €100,000 and €800,000, and there are plenty of modern, recently-renovated complexes in the area, in addition to some serious internal investment.
Living in Brand and things to do
Brand is home to approximately 700 permanent residents. As one might expect, the resort is at its busiest during the winter season, when holidaymakers and tourists flock to Brand to make the most of its excellent snowboarding and skiing facilities.
However, there’s still plenty of things to see and do after the snow has subsided. With horse riding classes, nature trails, rock climbing and swimming facilities around, it’s just as easy to have a productive, educational and fun-filled day off the slopes as it is on-piste.
If the outdoors isn’t your thing – or you’d simply like to enjoy something a little more relaxing indoors – there are quaint cafes, restaurants and shops to keep you occupied. Smaller children can be kept entertained in one of the town’s many play areas, and there’s a medical centre on-site for those who need urgent attention, in addition to cash points for convenience and a launderette to keep your attire looking its best.
The resort is located between 904 and 2000 metres altitude, and the snow report for Brand suggests that it receives some 170cm of snowfall on average every month. In the event of low snow, there are several snow cannons onsite to create enough powder to keep everybody on the slopes.
With over 52 kilometres of runs aimed at beginners, intermediate and expert skiers alike, there’s enough to keep everybody entertained. 26 individual pistes are served by 13 ski lifts, each of which offers easy access direct to the action.
Brand and culture
Situated just five kilometres north of the Swiss border, Brand shares common cultural themes with both Austria and Switzerland. It’s also close to the principality of Liechtenstein, one of the wealthiest areas in Europe.
Brand is a short driving distance away from the densely populated towns of Bregenz, Dornbirn and Feldkirch. The state in which each of these towns are situated (Voralberg) is the only area of Austria in which an Alemannic dialect is spoken as opposed to an Austro-Bavarian one. From a historic and cultural perspective, Brand and its surrounding towns have more in common with Switzerland than Austria.
In addition to enjoying the mountain culture of Brand, visitors can enjoy activities outside of the slopes which include soccer, canyoning, mountain biking, indoor tennis and archery. Art lovers can expect to take in landscape works influenced by the incredible surrounding scenery while enjoying a freshly-brewed coffee.
Investment potential in Brand
Brand is increasing in popularity year-on-year, and to meet the demand the resort is constantly striving to update its facilities. One of the key investment areas in Brand is property, with plenty of luxury ski apartments and lodges in huge demand during peak season. However, Brand remains popular during the summer months, so there is potential for return on investment all year round. Brand has many permanent residents, which makes investment in culinary or retail outlets a viable proposition, too.
Austria is currently witnessing huge investment in hotels, particularly as the popularity of winter sports continues to grow. The fruits of past investments in the wider industry, such as snow cannons, are positive proof that Brand is in high demand among investors and holidaymakers alike.
Transport to Brand
Transport to Brand from the UK couldn’t be easier. A short flight to Brandnertal and a 37-minute car journey is all it takes. However, it’s worthwhile checking the weather report for Brand while travelling, as inclement weather can cause significant delays.
A regular bus service from Bludenz railway station also serves the resort, for those who do not wish to drive themselves or decide to take public transport after reading the snow report for Brand.
With such great transport links, a friendly, close-knit community and some of the best sporting facilities Austria has to offer, it’s easy to see why buying property in Brand is such a great investment.