Violetta Sacharidou

As the ski season is approaching the sport enthusiasts and snow lovers are getting ready to sparkle in their winter holidays in some of the world’s best skiing playgrounds. There is a huge variety of resorts to choose from, with exquisite terrains and activities but the Crème de la Crème traditionally choose very specific resorts to enjoy skiing and of course be and be seen !

This winter we are very excited to share with you 5 of our favourite ski chalets in top destinations that are available for sale as a primary /second home or rent by Sotheby’s International Realty.

1.VERBIER : MAYBE THE MOST GLAMOROUS RESORT IN THE SWISS ALPS

The iconic Swiss resort of Verbier, with its world-class terrain and legendary après-ski, remains among the top ski destinations in the Alps. Situated in a sunny, south-facing bowl with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, Verbier is less than 2 hours from Geneva Airport, close to the borders with France and Italy.With its shops, restaurants, hotels and stunning views, but also with a beyond compare nightlife, Verbier attracts people from all over the world who desire unforgettable holidays. Thanks to the exceptional quality of life, events and services which include a private international school and a world- class classical music festival, Verbier is the home to a growing international community.

Our pick: Joli Bois & Ciel Bleu

Joli Bois & Ciel Bleu are exclusively located adjacent to the ski slopes and golf course of Le Rouge. These two chalets are linked by a large outdoor terrace and interior corridors. Originally developed in 1989 Joli Bois was the landmark of its time. Recently, this family home underwent a significant renovation with the addition of Ciel Bleu. Over 740m2 of ski-in, ski-out paradise define this estate. From designer finishes, sun-drenched living rooms and high vaulted ceilings to a large fitness room, jacuzzi, spa area and 8 bedrooms. This fabulous retreat is a rare opportunity to own in one of Verbier most coveted locations. This property is available for purchase by international buyers and can be used as a primary or secondary residence. ( price is on request)

2.ZERMATT: THE FAIREST OF THEM ALL?

The elegant Zermatt, at an elevation of around 1,600m – is the highest ski resort in Europe and a picturesque chocolate-box village. It lies below the iconic, pyramid-shaped Matterhorn peak. Surrounded by 38 summits above 4,000m, the car-free town is full of life all year round while it is also attractive for the many events and festivals it offers.Its main street, Bahnhofstrasse is full of boutique shops, stunning hotels and restaurants and offers a lively après-ski scene.

Our pick : Elbrus

Elbrus is a Top notch 567 sq.m chalet with private wellness and elevator that conveys you up through the property set out over five floors.Completed in 2015, it is located in one of the most prestigious addresses in the center of Zermatt offering striking views of the Matterhorn and south west facing balconies. Its truly desirable location is in immediate proximity to the shopping, night life and main railway station.The Sunnegga funicular is only a short walk from the chalet and brings you directly up to the ski slopes.
This property is also available for purchase by international buyers and can be used as a primary or secondary residence. ( price is on request)

3. MERIBEL : ( FRENCH ALPS ) : A BRITISH FAVOURITE

Meribel (1450m) is located right in the centre of the largest lift-linked ski area in Europe – the Three Valleys (600km).It was founded by a Scotsman, Major Peter Lindsaywho was looking for a new site for winter sports away from the ski resorts of Austria and Germany, because of the growing strength of the Nazi regime. In 1936, he visited the town of Les Allues for the first time and imagined how the town could become a ski resort. This purpose-built ski resort is a firm British favourite while its accommodation is largely made up of attractive, wood-clad chalets, as no high-rise architecture is allowed.

Our pick : Alya

Inside the forest of Méribel, at the edge of the ski slope, the location of the chalet Anya is idyllic in the heart of the heart of the 3 Valleys.This beautiful 4 level chalet has an unimpeded view on the ski resort of Méribel offering all the luxury elements of comfort that are needed after a day of effort in the mountains. It was entirely rehabilitated in 2019, with respects to all the alpine construction demands : perfect facades, balconies and terraces in wood and stonework that light up at nightfall.
This property is available for rent. ( Prices start from €10,000/per week)

4. MEGÈVE : ( FRENCH ALPS) : GLAMOROUS SKIING AND GREAT RESTAURANTS

Conceived in the 1920s as a French alternative to St. Moritz by the Rothschilds, it was the first purpose-built resort in the Alps. Originally it was a prime destination for the French aristocracy. It remains one of the most famous and fanciest ski resorts in the world. The area features rustic-chic chalets, upmarket hotels and designer boutiques. Its picturesque pedestrian centre has cobbled medieval streets. Its restaurants are now beginning to attract more attention than its mountains – while it boasts one of the best spas in the world. ( Les Fermes de Marie).

Our pick : Blazing

Located at a few minutes from Megève village center, in a small peaceful hamlet consisting only of magnificent properties, this chalet probably has one of the most stunning views of Mont Blanc. With an area of about 650 sq.m, the whole of the chalet is dressed in old woods with light colors. Salvatori marbles and Kartell lamps refine the decoration. Distributed on three levels, this luxury chalet is constituted by a beautiful living area with living room and dining area separated by a fireplace as well as a equipped independent kitchen. There are four double suite rooms, a master room, a staff room and a dormitory for four people. A space of entertainment and relaxation including Swimming pool, Hammam, gym, massage room complete this property.
Blazing is available for rent. ( Prices start from €26,000/per week)

5. ASPEN : ( USA, COLORADO) : LEGENDARY FOR GOOD REASON

Aspen was the most expensive place to buy real estate in the US in 2011. The Legendary Aspen Mountain is just outside and above the city of Aspen, in Colorado. Its majestic ski resort was founded in 1946 by Walter Paepcke and is a playground for the seriously rich ! At Aspen Mountain you can ski down the same runs that have hosted World Cup finals or if a non skier enjoy all the luxury and comfort amenities its high end hotels offer. Alternatively you may consider stay in one of the International Chalets available for Rent and/or consider a once in a generation opportunity to own a property in Aspen !

Our pick : THE LUNDY HOUSE
An homage to classic architectural greats. Incorporating the original structure with a thoughtful and complementary addition, the new Lundy House takes its place amongst the finest homes in Aspen. With exquisite finishes, refined details and a “form follows function” floor plan, one could say this home was 100 years in the making.Situated on a corner lot, with atypically deep (30 feet) roadway setbacks, the property benefits from expansive landscape areas providing the home with privacy from neighbours and an experience of a much larger property.

The home comprises approximately 940 total sq.m, including a 46 sq.m two-car heated garage.
The Lundy House is available for purchase by international buyers and can be used as a primary or secondary residence. ( asking price : $26,900,000)