Belle Aurore
Alpe d'Huez, France
France
Sitting on a sun-drenched plateau between 1,400m and 3,330m, Alpe d'Huez is one of France's highest and most snow-sure ski resorts following a €350m infrastructure investment. Demand for chalets and apartments has surged as the resort cements its position as a serious rival to the Three Valleys, with a planned gondola link to Les Deux Alpes expanding the ski area to 475km.
France
A massive new regeneration programme, glacier skiing, and relatively good value ski-in ski-out property makes Alpe d’Huez a compelling investment proposition.
The 'Island of the Sun', is not just a location for skiers; but also, a sunny spot for property buyers seeking a lucrative investment potential. With the resort's extensive ski terrain and continuous development, Alpe d’Huez is an attractive location to purchase a ski chalet or apartment.
Alpe d’Huez has been awarded the ‘Famille Plus’ certificate which means that much of the accommodation, restaurants, sports shops, and activity companies are specially set up with families in mind. This resort is a golden opportunity for families to own a piece of the French Alps.
As a high-altitude, purpose-built resort, Alpe d’Huez is blessed with a good supply of ski-in and ski-out properties.. These ski-in ski-out properties tend to attract a 10-15% price premium over and above similar apartments slightly further from the piste. From modern apartments to luxurious chalets, these properties epitomise the dream of a hassle-free ski lifestyle, making them highly sought after in the rental market.
Detached chalets are hard to find in Alpe d’Huez, so investors tend to focus on the new apartment projects where you can buy a fully managed rental property that often comes with the use of spa and wellness facilities. If you are determined to buy a chalet rather than an apartment then resales can be found in the smaller villages such as Oz-en-Oisans and Vaujany.
Demand for property in Alpe d'Huez is driven by its reputation of being suitable for use year-round. Given both the winter and summer tourists visiting the resort, there is a constant flow of holidaymakers. This combination ensures attractive returns and consistent rental income.
Property prices in Alpe d'Huez vary, catering to a range of budgets. In 2023 the lowest price per sq. metre for properties is EUR 7,738, the average price is EUR 12,588, and the highest is EUR 17,568.
From affordable apartments to high-end chalets, the resort offers investment opportunities for second-home buyers at different price points. The recent trend towards upscale developments indicates a growing market for luxury properties, offering the potential for significant capital appreciation.
Alpe d'Huez transforms into a winter paradise. This enchanting resort has a unique combination of exhilarating skiing under the glistening sun and a vibrant après-ski scene.
Although Alpe d’Huez faces South and receives sunlight for much of the day, its altitude is high enough to guarantee a good snow cover on pistes. The resort is part of the Grand Domaine ski area, consisting of five other resorts and two villages. It provides more than 250 km of piste runs with paths to suit all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
Alpe d'Huez has an impressive network of 67 lifts, including modern cable cars and gondolas, ensuring easy and quick access to the different areas of the resort. The lifts are laid out for optimal slope time and minimal wait times.
From gentle beginner runs to challenging black diamonds, the resort is renowned for its long groomed runs, including the famous 16km Sarenne, the longest black run in the world. Snowboarders will love Alpe d'Huez, with dedicated snow parks, half-pipes, and boarder-friendly slopes. The resort's varied terrain caters to both beginners and seasoned riders.
Other than skiing, you can enjoy the resort's sports centre, ice rink, and wellness facilities, or explore the shops and markets for a leisurely day off the slopes. The resort's location in the Oisans region means that nearby attractions like Les Deux Alpes and La Grave are within easy reach.
The après-ski scene in Alpe d'Huez is vibrant all winter. From cosy mountain huts to lively bars and clubs, the resort has different options for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
The resort buzzes with events and nightlife, from the International Comedy Film Festival to live music gigs and DJ sets. Alpe d'Huez's event calendar is packed with exciting activities, making every visit memorable.
Foodies can indulge in the culinary delights of the Alps in Alpe d'Huez. The resort has an array of dining options, from traditional Savoyard restaurants to international cuisine, catering to all tastes.
Alpe d'Huez is not just a spot for the winter season! The Summer here is vibrant with its sun-drenched mountains and an array of outdoor activities. The snow gives way to lush green landscapes, revealing a playground for hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts. Summer in here is pleasantly warm with plenty of sunshine, clear skies and mild temperatures.
Alpe d'Huez is a family-friendly destination in summer, with activities for kids of all ages. From adventure parks to outdoor sports and educational experiences, there's plenty to keep the young ones entertained. The summer calendar in Alpe d'Huez is filled with events, including the famous Tour de France stage, music festivals, and cultural celebrations. These events bring a lively atmosphere to the resort.
Hiking in Alpe d'Huez is a must-do, with trails of all difficulties. Explore the serene alpine meadows, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Cool off in the mountain lakes or the resort's swimming pools. The stunning crystal-clear waters give you a refreshing escape from the summer heat!
For sports enthusiasts, Alpe d'Huez offers a range of activities including golf. The resort's golf course, set against a stunning mountain backdrop, provides a unique and scenic setting for a round of golf.
Dive into the cultural side of Alpe d'Huez with a visit to local museums and art galleries. Spend your afternoons, savouring the flavours of the Alps with local cheeses, charcuterie, and traditional dishes, paired with exquisite French wines.
For property owners, Alpe d'Huez is more than a seasonal retreat; it's a year-round destination with potential for rental returns and personal enjoyment.
Expect to pay between €11,000 and €15,000 / m2 for a prime, new-build apartment or ski chalet in Alpe d’Huez. Older resale ski apartments requiring renovation can occasionally be found for €6,000 to €8,000 per m2.
As well as one of the longest ski seasons in the Alps, Alpe d'Huez booms in July and August due to the Tour de France and its reputation as a global cycling mecca. This allows owners to generate rental income almost year-round.
The resort is currently undergoing a massive €350 million upgrade plan which is starting to lead to higher property prices. With a village height of 1,860m and glacier skiing up to 3,330m, snow reliability should make Alpe d’Huez a solid long-term investment.
Alpe d'Huez is famous for its "Island in the Sun" nickname, boasting an average of 300 days of sunshine a year thanks to its unique south-facing plateau. It is home to the longest black run in the world, a 16km endurance test from the Pic Blanc glacier back to the valley.
The 21 hairpin bends leading up to the resort are legendary in the cycling world, making it as famous for road biking as it is for skiing.
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