Travel

hoW to choose the perfect fAMily ski hoMe

If you’re looking to purchase a ski property, there is a lot to consider. Add kids into the mix and it’s easy to feel a little lost. So, how do you choose the perfect family ski home? The writers at The Luxury Ski Show provide some suggestions.

does the locAtion suit fAMilies?

Your chosen ski resort should cater to the needs of the whole family. Are you beginners or more seasoned skiers? Maybe you’re a combination of both. Our advice is to choose a location that has a good selection of slopes that vary in difficulty. Les Gets in France is a great option for families. Being under an hour from Geneva, there’s no tedious transfer from the airport, and the resort itself offers a variety of runs for all abilities.

You’ll find 7 green slopes, 13 blues, 26 reds and 8 blacks, so complete beginners have the chance to learn the ropes, whilst advanced skiers can explore the more challenging runs. There is also a separate beginner area, as well as several British ski schools.

On the other hand, if your children are more experienced skiers, Nendaz in Switzerland is a good choice. Situated in the popular 4 Valleys ski area, Nendaz is surprisingly affordable when compared to neighbouring Verbier, and is perfect for thrill-seekers who can explore the numerous off-piste trails.

Are there Activities off the slopes?

We all know that children seem to have endless amounts of energy, so choosing a resort with plenty of activities off the slopes is key. It also means you are free to put your feet up with a glass of wine without having to entertain the kids!

Livigno in Italy is hugely popular with families and is a fantastic all-round resort. Not only is it a tax-free zone with great ski schools, but non-skiers, or those taking a break from the slopes, can enjoy all sorts of activities, including ice skating, snow tubing and dogsledding. There is also a large swimming pool, bowling alley and kids fun park with games and inflatables.

hoW Much Are lift pAsses?

If you’re planning on visiting your ski home regularly, then the cost of lift passes is an important factor to consider, especially if you are a larger family.

Some resorts offer family ski passes and discounts if you buy online. For example, Morzine in France offers a 10% discount for ski passes bought online, as well as for groups of four or more people.

So, it is definitely worth doing some research – it could save you a lot of money in the long run!

could you rent out your property?

If you have children of school age, then you’re fairly limited as to when you can go and use your ski home as a whole family.

Outside of the school holidays, the property is likely to be sitting empty.

The good news? Ski homes are one of the most lettable forms of real estate, so this can actually work to your advantage. Why not rent out your chalet or apartment to those holidaying outside of the school holidays?

To really maximise your potential rental income, choose a dual season resort (one that is open and thriving in both the winter and summer) to be in with the best chance of yearround occupancy.

Many resorts are great bases for summer alpine activities like cycling, hiking and golf. Alpe d’Huez in France is a wellestablished dual season resort, attracting thousands of cyclists each summer who attempt to conquer “cycling’s most famous mountain” .

Another option you might not immediately think of is Sierra Nevada in Spain – yes, you can ski in Spain! Along with excellent skiing in the winter, the list of summer activities on offer is endless. Kids and adults alike can try zip-lining, trampolining, cycling, paragliding, horse-riding and climbing to name just a few! You can even brush up on your Spanish and impress the locals at Spanish language classes on the resort.

luxury ski shoW virtuAl event

Do you have further questions about purchasing a ski property? Hear from international snow and ski experts at The Luxury Ski Show virtual event.

The only online event of its kind, you can visit the Exhibition Hall, Lounge and Seminar Theatre all from the comfort of your sofa. The event will feature international real estate agents, lawyers, currency specialists and IFAs, among many others.

Whether you are looking for the perfect ski property, the latest mountain fashions or advice from the experts, you’ll be able to find it here. Register your interest for tickets today.