Ultra-luxury ski chalets are commanding unprecedented interest among high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) seeking both an exclusive lifestyle and a strategic asset. If you’re looking for a property that can enhance your home life and business life, a chalet could be the answer.
Property prices in many high-demand resorts rose more than 5% last year, with Courchevel, in the south of France, leading the charge with 9% growth, according to Knight Franks’ 2024 Alpine Property report. Ultra-luxury ski resorts are becoming a popular place to invest with no sign of slowing down.
Whether as a long-term investment, a private retreat or a hub for business networking, these elite properties in the world’s most coveted alpine resorts are becoming a must-have.
Why use a public airport, when you can travel by private plane?
The appeal of high-end ski investments
Luxury chalets in premier European, American and Canadian ski destinations are appreciating in value. The demand is driven by limited inventory, high demand for exclusivity and evolving buyer priorities.
Over the past 13 years, ski properties have seen an average annual growth rate of 1.9%. Looking at just the years since 2020, Knight Frank says that rate in the high-value property ski property market has increased to 4%.
For investors, these properties offer more than just a physical asset—they provide a hedge against market fluctuations, rental income potential and long-term capital appreciation.
In a world that’s being buffeted by rapid change in the market, it’s rare to find such consistency.
Luxury chalets open up the mountains in ways other than skiing
Beyond ownership: the prestige factor
Owning an ultra-luxury chalet is about more than bricks and mortar—it’s about prestige, networking and access to an exclusive community. Resorts like Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Whistler are not only world-class ski destinations but also social hubs where industry leaders, entrepreneurs and celebrities gather. An opulent chalet in such locations provides opportunities for business networking and high-profile events.
The Swiss resort Davos, for example, offers a front row seat to the annual meeting of world business leaders. Owning a property in the prestigious resort opens doors to unique networking opportunities. That property prices have grown more than 5% in the past year is just the icing on the cake.
Features that define ultra-luxury
When looking at ultra-luxury properties, you will discover they offer much more than access to excellent skiing. These are properties that provide a hub for family and business that you can use year-round.
Features such as helipad access give you the ability to arrive via private helicopter, adding a level of efficiency and exclusivity. You will also find properties come with concierge services, providing personalised services, from private chefs to event planning. Not only will this team make your own stay pleasurable, but it makes for a ski property where you can host and impress guests.
While some properties offer access to year-round snow, others lean into making the summer months as luxurious as the peak season. Full-service spas, indoor pools and fitness centres enhance year-round usability, catering to relaxation and well-being beyond the ski season.
Enjoy a premium service at chalets with concierge desk
Growing demand
The shift towards private and secure escapes, accelerated by the pandemic, has fuelled demand for ultra-luxury chalets. Remote work trends have also encouraged HNWIs to seek properties that blend business with leisure, making ski chalets an appealing choice.
After all, if you could spend your morning holding calls in your chalet office before moving escaping to the slopes in the afternoon, wouldn’t you?
Data from Savills’ Prime Residential Index highlights that high-end ski resorts have outperformed other second-home markets, with increased international interest from North American, European and Middle Eastern buyers.
This demand has resulted in record-breaking sales in the ultra-luxury market, particularly in destinations such as Aspen and Courchevel, where inventory remains tight and buyer competition is fierce.
Sustainability is also playing a larger role, with eco-conscious buyers prioritizing energy-efficient designs, sustainable materials, and off-grid capabilities. Developers are responding by incorporating geothermal heating, solar panels and carbon-neutral construction methods, reinforcing the long-term desirability of these properties while appealing to environmentally responsible investors.
A growing number of ski resorts cater to dual season use
If you’re considering your first ultra-luxury ski property, expert guidance can help you find the perfect chalet to match your lifestyle and investment goals. Our specialists have in-depth knowledge of the most exclusive resorts and can provide tailored recommendations based on your needs.
For an example of what luxury looks like, take a look at the Fleur des Alpes development in the south of France.
