Praz-sur-Arly: the best kept secret in Haute-Savoie ?

Praz-sur-Arly is a beautiful village in the Haute-Savoie region of south-eastern France. Bursting with French charm, this picturesque little town is often overshadowed by its more well-known neighbours, Megève and Chamonix, making it a true hidden gem of the French Alps.

Praz-sur-Arly offers excellent skiing, but without the price tag you'd expect from some of the bigger resorts. The resort joined the L'Espace Val d'Arly (EVA) in 2007. With Crest-Voland Cohennoz, Flumet, Notre-Dame-de-Bellecombe and Praz-sur-Arly combining to make the L'Espace Diamant ski area, you can enjoy over 200km of runs between 1,000 and 2,070 metres. There is more than enough skiing opportunities for people of all levels, from complete novices to seasoned professionals. If cross-country skiing is of interest, then you'll be pleased to learn about the extensive cross-country network that can be accessed at the nearby Les Saisies ski area, which is also part of L'Espace Diamant. The Nordic competitions were held here during the 1992 Winter Olympics, resulting in a world-class cross-country centre that offers 120km of routes and a biathlon stadium.

As well as fantastic skiing, the resort offers a range of other exciting winter pursuits, including hot air ballooning, snowshoeing and paragliding. ESF ski school is also available for children and adults.

Praz-sur-Arly's idyllic mountain location makes it an ideal base for a range of summer activities including hiking, rock climbing and mountaineering. The resort offers unforgettable views across the French Alps and over Mont Blanc and is one of the stops on the Mont Blanc hiking tour. The resort has also created specially-designed 'Family' pathways, making it perfect for families looking to enjoy some Alpine air during the summer months.

The village itself offers a range of independent shops and restaurants, while properties are typically made in the rustic chalet style, keeping the village's beautiful Alpine character firmly intact.

To the discerning buyer looking to buy a second home, Praz-sur-Arly offers a rare opportunity - the chance to buy a property in a family-friendly resort that provides access to exciting outdoor activities all year round in a stunning mountain location, without the expensive price-tag you might expect.

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