A family-friendly guide to buying property in the Alps

Convenience is key

For Laetitia Hodson, a Partner at Knight Frank within the International Residential Department, convenience should be top of the list. “Bear in mind that your little ones will be in their ski boots and have to carry their skis, so the shorter the distance to the skiing the better,” she advises. “Opt for properties close to the ski lift or even better, ski in/ski out chalets where you are right on the slope.”  Think too about the amount of green and blue runs, allowing budding learners to find their feet without the mountains getting too steep. 

Additionally, consider the travel time to the resort itself, with those in easy reach of key transport hubs helping avoid lengthy car rides with restless kids. Destinations such as Megève, Morzine and Chamonix are within around an hour’s drive of Geneva airport, with outdoor fun to be enjoyed year-round. 

Location, location, location

While skiing is undoubtedly a top priority, it’s equally important to think about the variety of activities available for all family members. “When holidaying in the Alps you often have 3 generations of the family under one roof,” she says. “It’s all about celebrating this time together.” 

Popular destinations like Verbier and Courchevel 1850 shine in this area, offering a wealth of outdoor and indoor sports, along with excellent childcare services. Meanwhile, charming, traditional villages such as Saint-Martin-de-Belleville have a relaxed, child-friendly atmosphere with less emphasis on après-ski. 

“Due to the way Courchevel 1850 is built, most properties will be within easy reach of skiing,” she describes. “It also has the Le Village des Enfants - the Children’s Village - offering ski lessons and childcare services in one convenient location, so it's very easy for parents to drop their kids off and go and ski, or play with them in the centre.”  

The perfect property

With extended family and friends visiting, choosing a chalet with a generous provision of bedrooms is a must. However, it’s important to also factor in the size and layout of the rest of the building. “The most desirable properties have living areas that match the sleeping accommodation for the family. If you have a large chalet that can sleep ten people, but the sitting area only caters for six, then that’s not going to work,” Hodson notes. Those with separate spaces to entertain children - whether it’s a playroom, games room, or cinema - are particularly popular with families.