PROPERTY HOTSPOTS ON THE TOUR DE FRANCE ROUTE

The largest cycling race in the world is returning to the French Alps this year, as the ever changing route will cross through the toughest climbs of the Haute-Savoie.

Stages 10, 11 and 12 of the race will see competitors tackle steep ascents between Annecy, Le Grand-Bornand, La Rosiere and Alpe d’Huez, creating one of the most challenging parts of the race.

More than just unbeatable cycling turf, however, this region also offers one of France’s most diverse and desirable ranges of property, with leaseback and outright purchase homes available through MGM French Properties.

Annecy

Known by the French as ‘the Venice of the Alps’, the town is one of France’s most sought-after expat hotspots and is defined by its picturesque canals, cobbled streets and pastel coloured houses. The town boasts a cultural history, with the Palais de l’Isle museum and Château d’Annecy topping the long list of must-sees in the area.

Villa Parsini has recently been launched in the town by MGM French Properties, centrally located in the famous ‘Golden Triangle’. Owners will be on the doorstep of the local schools and restaurants, while those working in Geneva’s business district will benefit from the 45 minute drive to work.

Apartments are south-facing with low energy consumption, and all have a private terrace. The homes start from €300,000 for one bedroom, ranging up to €710,000 for a three-bedroom apartment.

Le Grand-Bornand Chinaillon

One of France’s most understated ski resorts, this picture-perfect town offers a wide variety of family-friendly activities. The resort has been certified as ‘Famille Plus’ by the French government, and offers cycling and hiking through the summer months, in addition to winter sports.

The 44 fully-furnished apartments which make up Le Roc des Tours development in Le Grand Bornand feature panoramic views of the slopes and cosy rustic interiors. They each include a private cellar and ski locker room. The development will also boast an on-site restaurant and state-of-the-art spa facility.

Apartments at Le Roc des Tours start from at €195,833 for a one-bedroom apartment, ranging to €525,000 for a three-bedroom duplex property.

La Rosière

As part of Espace San Bernardo, La Rosière boasts links to a much wider set of pistes, including La Thuille, an Italian resort which can be accessed easily. MGM French Properties recently launched Alpen Lodge in La Rosière, a leaseback development of authentic style apartments built with wood, copper and stone.

The development boasts an array of amenities including a sauna, gym and spa, and each apartment comes with a wine cellar and sun-drenched balcony with vistas of the Tarentaise valley.

One bedroom homes start from €233,334 while four-bedroom duplex apartments are available from €675,000.

“Each year the Tour de France showcases Frances exciting and diverse array of destinations,” says Richard Deans, Sales Manager at MGM French Properties. “We are delighted that this year the cyclists will be taking on some of the best climbs the Alps have to offer and staying in some of their finest villages.  I am glad that the route will shine a spotlight on these excellent investment areas of the Alps.”

For further information on property in Annecy, Le Grand-Bornand and La Rosière, visit www.mgmfrenchproperties.com