Chatel – a jewel in the crown of the Alps

While many resorts can feel bustling and commercialised, Chatel is one which retains a feel that’s unspoilt and very French. The town is one which has a life outside of tourism, with many working farms in the local area and a thriving sense of community.

The local architecture is pretty and traditional, and many of the new developments which have come along with the expansion of the resort have remained in keeping with this style, meaning that it doesn’t feel too busy.

It’s located just at the head of the Dranse valley, a wooded area which helps it to feel secluded and tucked away. As well as the charms of Chatel, it’s also in a very enviable position in terms of access to the slopes.

It provides access to the vast Portes du Soleil ski area which offers plenty of variety for the serious skier, and though the resort itself is a little lower down, it’s easy to gain access to higher up slopes with guaranteed snow for much of the winter. Chatel also has its own micro climate, helped by its valley position, which has ensured, where some resorts have struggled with snow early and late in the season, Chatel has largely avoided these same issues.

The real charm of the Chatel area and its skiing opportunities is the aesthetic value that they hold, however. The lifts in this area often have a stunning view of Lake Geneva nestled below as you’re climbing up to the slopes. With pretty wooded slopes and soaring mountains it’s a lovely area to take to the pistes, and with such a variety of runs and terrain you’ll never get bored, whatever your skill-level.

The village itself has sprawled outwards as the resort has grown, but a convenient free bus service means that it’s easy to get around Chatel - especially for those all-important apres-ski outings....

Chatel is an ideal place to make an Alpine property investment; it’s a popular and well-regarded resort but by staying slightly off the beaten track visitors can enjoy a bit more of the local charm. Not only that, but property prices remain slightly lower than in the largest and most developed resorts, making it an ideal place to invest.

To find out more about the properties we have for sale in Chatel, please do get in touch, we’ve got a great selection of chalets and apartments on offer and can offer expert advice on all aspects of buying property in the French and Swiss Alps.

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