Les Portes du Soleil encompasses seven resorts in France and another five in Switzerland, and it’s considered one of Europe’s top and most versatile ski areas. Plus, since it’s less than one hour from Geneva, it’s highly accessible. The village centres throughout Portes du Soleil have stone houses, wooden chalets and small boutiques and souvenir shops, and the overall feel is traditionally alpine.
Life in Portes du Soleil
The pistes in France are milder than the ones in Switzerland, making them the best option for beginners and families. For a challenge, though, you’ll want to cross the border. Throughout the ski season, an open ski race called Chavanette Session is held on the area’s steepest slope. Morzine is the largest resort in the region, and on top of its interconnected slopes, it also has the area’s most exciting nightlife. For those who don’t ski or snowboard, there’s also ice climbing and snowmobile riding in Portes du Soleil.
Since much of the terrain is wide, Portes du Soleil is great for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Snowboarders should head to Avoriaz, which has three terrain parks. Even though Portes du Soleil has relatively small slopes (900 to 2,400 metres), there’s a lot of snowfall during the winter. The abundance of wintertime activities and sports, plus the area’s proximity to Geneva, make it popular with visitors. If you’re there in January, make sure to attend the annual La Grande Odyssée dog sled race.
When the weather warms and the snow melts, there’s still plenty to do. During the spring and summer, Portes du Soleil’s many meadows are connected by hundreds of well-marked walking and mountain biking trails. In Les Gets, you can play a round of golf or go whitewater rafting, and throughout Portes du Soleil you can hike or mountain climb. There’s also canyoning, hot air balloon rides and paragliding at your disposal.
Types of Property in Portes du Soleil
Property in Portes du Soleil has a range of architectural styles. For example, apartments in Avoriaz are modern and even futuristic. For more space, Chatel and Les Gets have luxury chalets to buy. Since the locale is so popular with snowboarding enthusiasts and families, it’s a prime spot for rental property, too.
Three-bedroom apartment in the heart of Les Gets
This three-bedroom apartment in the heart of Les Gets is filled with light, and you’ll enjoy views of the mountains even if you’re taking the day off from skiing. Though the property is new and its amenities are modern, there’s also a comfy alpine vibe. The complex was inspired by the traditional chalets of the Savoy region, and owners can take advantage of interior designers who will help you make the space your own (or create an apartment that’s appealing to renters). Features include a balcony and terraces, an indoor pool and spa, a ski locker and storage unit for your equipment, concierge services and underground parking.
Les Gets Apartment with Mountain Views
This apartment in Les Gets has three bedrooms, two balconies and views of the mountains. The architecture is a combination of flagstone, stone and wood, striking the perfect balance between modern and traditional mountain style. There are two main bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, plus a third bedroom that’s fit for bunk beds. There’s also a fully-equipped kitchen and an open-plan living/dining area.
The apartment includes access to the indoor swimming pool and spa, plus a ski locker and cellar. Other on-site facilities include a restaurant and ski shop. Furthermore, you’ll be close to the main street of Les Gets, where you’ll find amenities and shops. Just a bit further away is where you’ll find the resort’s ski lifts.
Luxury Apartment in New Les Gets Development
In addition to three bedrooms, a balcony and terraces, this apartment in Les Gets also has views of the mountains and the charming village below. There are two larger bedrooms as well as a smaller room with bunk beds, ideal for kids or visitors. If you’d like, you can opt to add a jacuzzi to your luxury apartment.
The best part of this Savoyard property is the ski-in/ski-out access, though. You’re just a few metres from ski lifts, and you can ski right out from your apartment, then get dropped off practically at your front door.
Four-bedroom chalet in Morzine
For homeowners and families who need more space than an apartment can offer, consider this three-level, four-bedroom chalet that overlooks Morzine. The master bedroom occupies the entire top floor, and each bedroom has either an en-suite bathroom or shower. The home also has a cinema room, a fireplace in the living room, an open kitchen and a wine cellar with a rock wall.
The chalet lets you make the most of your stunning surroundings. There is a balcony and terraces that look out on the mountains and over the village. There’s also a landscaped, raised garden, and an outdoor jacuzzi with a view of Pointe de Nyon. Additionally, the property comes with two parking spaces and two garages.
Three-bedroom luxury apartment in Chatel
Set in breathtaking Chatel, this three-bedroom luxury apartment has its own balcony with views of the mountain range and the village. The open-plan living room, dining room and kitchen allow you to stay engaged with your family or house guests. There’s also a private cellar and underground parking, and you can request a private parking space. The 4 Seasons apartment complex is known for being calm and relaxed, and you’re just a short walk from the town centre.
When you want to head into Chatel, you’ll find plenty of après-ski spots to go bowling, have a gourmet meal or do some shopping.
HOMEHUNTS are luxury buyers’ agents who will search and select beautiful, high-end, luxury ski apartments and chalets in the Portes du Soleil area, based on your specific search criteria. Contact one of our property consultants by calling +33 (0)970 44 66 43 or search out website to browse the selection of luxury homes.
