Summertime Tourism Boosting Property Growth In The Alps

Alpine properties have seen “resilient” price growth this year, climbing by an average of 3% through 2024. Since 2008, the average price of an Alpine chalet has increased by 33%, reports Abode2.

Resilience has been helped by a “shift in buyer preferences”, says property agency Knight Frank in its annual ski report – which takes a bullish stance in an uncertain landscape, as climate change alters well-worn weather mountain patterns and threatens snow coverage.

“Health and wellness amenities are now more important than skiing,” declares the firm, noting increased demand for properties supporting year-round activities, such as hiking and wellness retreats.

Summertime tourism has become more popular in the Alps, as illustrated by a 46% jump in the number of Summer lift passes issued in Chamonix over the last two years. This amounts to a “Summer tourism boom”, argues Knight Frank, which is boosting demand for Alpine properties.

“The summer season has become essential, contributing 45% of our revenue with steady growth,” Mathieu Dechavanne of Compagnie du Mont-Blanc (which operates ski areas, lifts and restaurants in the Chamonix Valley) told researchers.

More traditional market-moving factors are also at play. US buyers, for example, are showing more interest in European mountain resorts, encouraged by the dollar’s strength and access via passes like Ikon and Epic. Knight Frank thinks the recent US election will further bolster American demand for Alpine retreats.

Changes to government policy and regulation – such as Chamonix’s cap on short-term rental properties and enhanced rules on energy efficiency – are also affecting both supply and demand.