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Buy a property in the Alps for the summer
With the end of the ski season fast approaching people may think Alpine resorts close their shutters for the summer, and ten years ago this may have been true.
However, as access to the ski areas of France has improved, investors who buy Alpine chalets have seen them become investments with year-round rental potential.
Admittedly , there's no snow in the Alps during the summer months, but that doesn't mean there isn't plenty to attract visitors and also appeal to property investors.
The top location and variety of activities available throughout the summer has opened a new way of holidaying in the Alps and a whole new rental market for Alpine property owners. For keen outdoor lovers there is plenty to do in Les Sept Laux (translated as Seven Lakes) in the Alpes-Cote d'Azur region, from white water rafting to paragliding, and hiking to biking in the summer months.
The mountainous part of the Alpes-Cote d'Azur area also has many historical villages for the culture vulture crowd to explore, including Longefoy. Situated between the station of Plagne Montalbert and the small town of Aime it is only a short journey from Les Sept Laux and offers tourists the opportunity to experience the traditional mountain way of life. The town has a baker's oven dating back to the 17th century which is still being used today and there is also a Baroque church with artwork dating back 300 years.
Elsewhere, the town of Grenoble is more than just a gateway to the Alps - owing to its convenient airport: it is a summer holiday destination and property hotspot in its own right. Steeped in history, Grenoble is in the heart of the Dauphine region and is home to the 13th century Place Notre-Dame. More recent history saw the Olympics come to Grenoble in 1968 and there are many local museums dedicated to the famous sporting event.
Though the snow might disappear for half the year, Alpine property in the Alpes-Cote d'Azur area of France can be a year-round investment if owners are able to effectively market their property to the summer holiday crowds.
Studio, two and three bedroom apartments are available through Maison Individuelle France in Les Granges des Sept Laux development from £118,142 for a two-bedroom property and £245,039 for a three-bed property (pictured).
Situated in Les Deux Alpes resort is Les Chalets de L'Adret off-plan development, due for completion in December 2009 and available through Erna Low. Each apartment will have its own private balcony and an individual ski locker and is within a two-hour drive of Grenoble. Prices start from 140,500 euros (approximately £110,000).
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For more information visit:
www.mifrance.co.uk
www.ernalowproperty.co.uk
Article first published 18 March 2008