Our team of Alpine Agents live in France all year round and between us we have a diverse and interesting portfolio of properties for sale in Savoie 73, Haute-Savoie 74, Hautes-Alpes 05 and Isére 38.

We are passionate about our areas and what it offers us. Our passions include walking, skiing, boarding, mountaineering, mountain biking, road cycling, music, cooking and eating great food and lazing around!

We love living here and find real joy in being surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, and because we live here all year round, we are always on hand to find your perfect property. We really know the area, the schools, the shops, the doctors, the hairdressers . . . we visit every property; we know the locals and we're here to help.

• Andrew Morgan

  Evasion Mont Blanc

  St Gervais les Bains, Les Contamines

  St Gervais les Bains in the Haute Savoie is a well known French spa town since the end of the 19th century , full of charater with some fantastic turn of the century buildings around the main square where the bustling weekly market draws locals and holidaymakers alike. Pick a table on the terrace of one of the many bars and cafes , soak up the sun and enjoy the atmosphere of a real French town. From December to April St Gervais is at the heart of the Evasion Mont Blanc ski area, including Megeve and Les Contamines and creating the 3rd largest ski area in France with 445 km of pistes, great offpiste options and 5 snowparks. If this is not enough the Tramway du Mont Blanc, one of only 3 mountain railways left if France takes you to the Col de Voza, from where you can ski to Les Houches in the Chamonix Valley. There is of course plenty for those who do not want to hurtle down the mountains, with snowshoe walks, cross county ski trails, dog sleds, swimming pool and spas, or meet up with the rest of the group at one of the restaurants on the mountain. As all the locals will tell you, Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe at 4810m is in St Gervais and gives fantastic year round backdrops. It also sets the scene for the summer with a huge range of activities on offer. Summer walks in the alpine pasture, stop off at a goat farm, or gaze up to the Mont Blanc range whilst relaxing at the new pool complex. Get pampered at Les Bains du Mont Blanc a spa, located in a beautiful ‘thermal park' offering a full range of treatments. Tennis , mountain biking, climbing, canyoning, a 65 m bungy jump from the new bridge and of course standing on top of Mont Blanc are just some of the things you can do in and around St Gervais . Local lakes offer beaches and swimming, sailing and more. Ideally located, Annecy, Italy and Geneva are all within an hours drive.

• Ben Farley

  Ste Foy Tarentaise

  La Rosiere; Espace Killy: Tignes, Val d'Isère

  I have now lived in the Savoie region for 9 years. My home is in the village of Ste Foy in the Tarentaise valley. The village is situated within 20 minutes drive of some of the best ski resorts in the world with over 1000km of ski runs on our doorstep.. Val D'Isere and Tignes are just a short drive up the valley. These resorts are snow sure and have fantastic infrastructure. The local resort, Ste Foy is the most recent resort in the whole of the Alps. This is a great place for families as it has quiet, well groomed pistes that are great for beginners. However it is also famous for some of the best off piste skiing in the area. Close by in Villaroger you have access to Paradiski, the combination of Les Arcs and La Plagne. While on the other side of the valley sunny La Rosiere, links to the Italian resort of La Thuile and has super skiing with glorious views. The area is accessible from Lyon, Geneva and Chambery airports and also the train to Bourg St Maurice which is only a twenty minute drive.

• David Cowx

  Paradiski

  La Plagne, Montchavin les Coches, Bourg Saint Maurice, Plagne Montalbert, Villaroger

  La Plagne and Les Arcs form the incredible PARADISKI ski area; with some 425kms of piste this is one of the world’s largest ski areas. There is something for everyone, from ski in ski out apartments in the high altitude resorts to large and luxurious chalets in the more traditional villages such as Montchavin, Montalbert and Vallandry. This part of France is not just about skiing and winter sports, in the spring, summer and autumn, there are a whole host of activities on offer. Then, for a taste of different culture, why not drive over the mountain pass into Italy - FANTASTIC!

• Emma Horsfall

  Three Valleys

  Vallée de Belleville: Saint Martin de Belleville, Les Menuires, Val Thorens

  Imagine making your dream a reality by owning a property in the Three Valleys ski area, the largest in the world with over 600km of ski slopes. If you are looking for an investment, a permanent home or a ski pad for family and friends, you have come to the right place. The stunning Belleville valley offers tremendous possibilities, from the traditional wooden and stone chalets in the numerous charming villages such as St Martin de Belleville, to the functional apartments and luxury residences in Val Thorens and Les Menuires. The Belleville valley is proud to have some of the best skiing and off piste skiing in the world along with its modern ski lift systems. The Valley is also home to the highest ski resort in Europe, Val Thorens, which is an excellent bet for good snow conditions even late in the season. Summer is not to be missed, with plenty of outdoor activities such as beautiful walks, great mountain bike trails, local goat farms and more.

• Jackson Collins

  Les Hautes Alpes

  Serre Chevalier, Briancon, Montgenevre, Puy St Vincent, Risoul, Vars, Devoluy, Pelvoux

  Covering the geographical area south west of Grenoble all the way over to the Italian frontier and everything south, lies the southern Alps. Within them are a treasure trove of ski resorts, Alpe D'Huez, Les Deux Alpes, Serre Chevalier and Montgenevre. The Serre Chevalier Valley is made up of many villages and hamlets as well as the town of Briancon, the highest town in France and the vast Ecrin national park. The high tree line coupled with amazing off piste make it an all-round ski paradise. Transport to Serre Chevalier is much easier than before with regular flights to Grenoble and Turin

• Lenka Koutnakova

  Jura

  The Pays de Gex comprises 27 municipalities and has a population of over 80,000. It is located in the Franco-Geneva cross-border urban area known as “Greater Geneva” with almost 920,000 inhabitants. Located on the right bank of Lake Geneva, the Pays de Gex has the advantage of its close proximity to Geneva and its superb infrastructure: Geneva International Airport (13 million passengers in 2012), CERN (the biggest nuclear research laboratories in Europe), PALEXPO (congress and exhibition center best known for the famous annual Geneva Car EXPO), as well as Geneva's international district with many UN agencies, international organizations, and more then 250 NGOs. It is also a favorite destination for tourists as the Pays de Gex offers an exceptional quality of life and environment within a major urban area. It offers a wide range of sporting activities (magnificent cross-country and downhill skiing resorts in the Jura mountain range as well as the Alps, water activities, golf courses, horseback riding, paragliding, etc.). There are also many cultural and musical events, such as summer festivals, the Montreux Jazz Festival, and traditional historical events. The Pays de Gex opens the door to Europe at large, situated only a day's drive away to many other countries. It is one of the biggest international and cosmopolitan regions in Europe, characterized by its beautiful natural landscapes of vineyards, Lake Geneva and the beautiful panorama of the Alps and the Jura. Besides the beautiful landscape one can enjoy the many delicacies of the region representing the unique cultural backgrounds of the people. Start with the famous Swiss cheese and chocolate, then continue with French estragon and asparagus, finishing off with Italian truffle. What makes this region so special is the white wine. The vineyards spread across the steep slopes above the lake and complete the fantastic view with the panorama of the Alps. The wine from this region cannot be found anywhere in the shops. (This wine is typically not exported) The local winemakers keep the production relatively small in order to keep the quality superior and selling only from their farms or during frequents winetasting events, or to the local restaurants. One cannot miss to taste the white wine which is the local specialty. There is not need to add that Geneva offers the most luxurious shops mostly with watches, continue with famous Christies' s and Sotheby's auctions. The Pays de Gex is a slice of Paradise, offering something for everybody.

• Mara Junkere

  Aravis/Annecy

  La Clusaz, Grand Bornand, St Jean de Sixt

  Annecy is a human size pretty alpine town, the capital of Haute-Savoie, situated in south-eastern France just 30 minutes drive from Geneva. It is known for its old town and river Thiou winding through the medieval cobbled streets. Some even call it the little Venice of the Alps. In summer Annecy main attraction is it's lake that is considered to be the cleanest in Europe and offers a vast choice of beaches all around it. Annecy is also well known for its numerous events throughout the year. Most popular of which are the Venetian Carnival, Marathon, International Animation Film Festival, Lake Festival and Christmas in the Alps. While living here you have a choice of numerous ski resorts just 30 minutes drive from the town. La Clusaz, Le Grand Bornand and Manigod are called Lake Annecy Ski Resorts and offer 220 km of excellent skiing conditions for beginners and advanced skiers. The road starting from Château of Annecy will bring you up to Semnoz which is a perfect place for family skiing. You will adore the 360° view on the surrounding mountains, wide slopes and extremely friendly ski pass prices. For those who are looking for excellence in French gastronomy Annecy offers 5 restaurants listed on the renowned Michelin guide. No doubt this is THE place for all outdoor sports fans. Either it is summer or winter this is an excellent playground for those who like cycling, mountain biking, swimming, hiking, sailing, wake boarding, paragliding, climbing, skiing… The list is too long to fit in here.

• Max Ashton

  Massif des Bauges

  Allions-Margeriaz, Semnoz, La Sambuy

  Lake Annecy is one of the most sought after and beautiful areas of France. What is little known is that much of the lake falls within the Massif des Bauges, a well kept French secret, protected national park and an International Geopark. The Bauges is a hidden treasure stretching from Annecy to Aix-les-Bains and over to Chambery. From the centre of the Bauges you are within 25kms of any of these major tourist centres, just 55 minutes from Geneva airport and 30 kms from Chambery airport. The Bauges offers a wealth of sporting and cultural activities in a location that's hard to beat. With 3 family friendly ski areas including Aillon-Margeriaz; Le Semnoz and Savoie Grand Revard (the largest cross-country ski resort in France) there are some outstanding winter sports opportunities. In 2013 the Bauges hit the world stage as the venue for the final deciding stage of the Tour de France. Starting in Annecy, touring through the Bauges to an exciting first tour victory for Chris Froome on Mount Semnoz. Multiple cols and quiet roads make it truly heaven for cyclists. Whether you like swimming in the lakes, walking in the mountains, or any other outdoor activity, you'll find it here in the Massif des Bauges. Of course, there's always the option to just enjoy the tranquility of the area, marvel at the views and relax. To find an area of outstanding natural beauty in close proximity to major towns and airports is rare. And yet, incredibly, it is still possible to find characterful property to renovate and barns to convert at a more than reasonable price. At the other end of the spectrum you can find prestige properties with views over mountains and lakes. The Massif des Bauges region has something for everyone and something for every budget. But whatever home you choose, you'll be guaranteed an unrivalled environment and a lifestyle to lift your spirit.

• Michele Jones

  Three Valleys

  Courchevel, La Tania, Bozel, Brides les Bains; La Vanoise: Pralognan, Champagny

  Courchevel and the Three Valleys speak for themselves. There is so much more to this area than the world's largest ski resort with guaranteed snow! Spring, summer & autumn are also amazing times to spend here in these mountains. If you love the great outdoors and fresh air then come explore this area hiking, mountain biking or flying over the valleys while paragliding. The ever changing colours and scenery, the fragrance of the forest & mountain meadows leave you intoxicated!

• Nicky Wye

  Portes du Soleil

  Morzine, St Jean d'Aulps, Le Biot, Abondance

  Morzine, Avoriaz, Les Gets and St Jean D’Aulps are in the Portes du Soleil ski domain that spans two countries, France and Switzerland. Steeped in tradition, Alpine wooden chalets, slate roofs and stone foundations ensure that the villages retain their Savoyard charm. Its vast terrain offers 650km of slopes and plenty of off-piste, which in summer become host to some of the world's best mountain biking terrain. Summer activities suit most appetites and the villages fill with a lively spirit. At approximately 50 miles from Geneva, this area couldn't be more accessible.

• Niven Dyer

  Les Deux Alpes

  Mont de Lans, Venosc; Alpe d'Huez: Bourg d'Oisans, Venosc, Vaujany, Oz, Ornon, Villard Reuclas

  Located in the Southern Alps I cover the geographical area to the east of Grenoble, reaching as far as the world famous big mountain off-piste ski resort of La Grave. There are many small ski resorts located in this area such as Ornon, Oz, Vaujnay and Venosc. Many of these smaller resorts are linked to the two largest and better known resorts of Alpe d'Huez and Les Deux Alpes which has one of the largest skiable glaciers in Europe. This diversity in mountain locations provides a great variety of properties encompassing different styles and materials for those wishing to experience the alpine lifestyle either on a permanent basis or purely on vacation. From magnificent stone built eighteenth century conversions to ultra modern wooden chalets or just a small studio apartment there is something to suit everyone.

• Sandy Harris-Smith

  Massif des Bauges

  Le Grand Revard: Les Deserts; Chartreuse

  The Grand Savoie Revard ski resort offers 50 km of Alpine skiing and 130 km of Nordic skiing. Just a short drive or bus ride away there are several other ski resorts/stations namely: La Feclaz, Allion-le-Jeune, Margeriaz, St. François, Plaipalais, Le Revard and Station du Semnoz;These beautiful less well known ski areas have some of the most stunning mountain views in the Alps.

• Stephanie Donoghue

  Aravis/Annecy

  La Clusaz, Grand Bornand, Manigod, Thones; La Giettaz

  Lake Annecy, the purest lake in Europe, is ideal for summer and winter holidays offering picturesque Savoyard and lakeside medieval villages, colourful outdoor markets, a hive of water activities all within the idyllic setting of a beautiful lake and the mountains. Just a stone's throw from Annecy, is the 'Massif des Aravis' with the ski resorts La Clusaz, Grand Bornand and Manigod. If you have never skied through a forest of fir trees whilst listening to the rustling of the fresh snow beneath you, come and experience this, along with many other magical sensations.

• Steve Pangli

  Three Valleys

  Vallée de Belleville: Saint Martin de Belleville, Les Menuires, Val Thorens

  In the heart of the stunning Savoie region is the beautiful Belleville Valley, which makes up part of the world's largest linked ski resort, the Three Valleys. Whilst some of the resort has a purpose-built feel, this valley in general is (in my opinion) the most authentic and traditional-feeling of the whole Three Valleys, especially in and around the lovely year-round town of St Martin de Belleville. Higher up the valley is the multi award-winning resort of Val Thorens, the highest ski resort in Europe – based at 2300m. Equally picturesque in the powder-filled winters as during the lush, green summer, this idyllic mountain spot is perfect as a base for skiing and for relaxing breaks throughout the year. Obviously there is always demand for properties here for rental, so you also have the potential to generate some income whilst owning a property in the area. To surmise – it is a wonderful location for a ski base, an investment opportunity or as a permanent home.

• Theo Camfferman

  Three Valleys

  Meribel, Les Allues

  Meribel is the central valley of the largest ski domain in the world, Les 3 Vallées. The strict architectural codes of alpine sloping rooflines, timber and stone cladding compliment the setting and make it one of the most attractive high altitude French ski resorts. It is however, much more than winter ski resort and an extended stay in summer or during the colours of autumn are needed to appreciate this. Méribel continues to become increasingly popular with the big spenders of the world and the strong capital growth over the years is likely to continue.

• Zoe Swiderski

  Paradiski

  Les Arcs, Peisey-Vallandry, Bourg St Maurice

  Paradiski is the second largest linked skiable domain in the world with 425km of pistes, two glaciers over 3000m high and 70% of the skiable domain higher than 2000m. We cover the Les Arcs area which includes Bourg-Saint-Maurice in the valley along with the ski resorts of Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950 and Arc 2000; and the Peisey-Vallandry area which includes Landry in the valley, Peisey-Nancroix villages, and Vallandry / Plan Peisey resorts. Although it is a world-renowned ski area, you can get excellent value for money when purchasing property here, whether you are looking at a small studio as a first investment, a village house, or a luxury chalet to start your own business. It is also one of the few resorts that can be reached entirely by public transport, with no need for expensive transfers. The Eurostar stops in Landry and terminates in the vibrant valley town of Bourg-Saint-Maurice and the funicular will take you directly up to Arc 1600 in just 7 minutes. In addition to all the winter activities available, Paradiski is a superb summer destination with walking, mountain bike trails, paragliding and even a golf course. In the valley you can find shops, a lovely cycle path alongside the river, white water rafting and some terrific destinations for a day out - the Petit Saint Bernard pass is just 40 minutes away and takes you over the border into Italy where you can sample some of the best pizzas and icecream!

• Lucilia Desjeunes

  Three Valleys

  Vallée de Belleville: Saint Martin de Belleville, Les Menuires, Val Thorens

  The Belleville Valley is located in the heart of The Three Valley resort, the largest ski area in the world and benefits an easy access. Life here is magical! Peaceful year round with plenty of nature and interesting walks. There are many different activities on top of Alpine and Mountain and Road biking. What makes this region so charming is its authenticity, especially the Belleville Valley, with its quaint villages. With Les Menuires, the best family ski resort, Val Thorens, the highest ski resort in the world and the small, welcoming Savoie villages, there is something for everyone. Winter, being the most established season assures 24 weeks of full-on sporting activity with its guaranteed snow. This area is ideal if you're purchasing as an investment, a holiday home or a year-round family home.

• Nick Jones

  Portes du Soleil

  Chatel, Abondance, Bernex, Morzine, Thollon les Memises

  Welcome to Chatel, Evian-les-Bains and the Abondance Valley - 2 of the most beautiful mountain and lakeside destinations in the French Alps - and the lush alpine valley in between that sweeps south from the shores of Lake Leman (Lake Geneva) to the snow capped peaks of the high alps. This small part of the Haute Savoie is without doubt one of the most beautiful and exciting areas to live, work and play in the world, all year round - and yet remains relatively undiscovered by many. Just 75 minutes by car from the bustling city of Geneva and its international airport and 30 minutes from the closest French autoroute, Chatel, Evian and the Abondance Valley are all easily accessed from major UK and European cities - great for home owners and property investors, and ideal for weekend, week or longer winter ski and summer breaks. Chatel sits at the head of the valley, a charming and very traditional alpine village at the heart of the massive Portes Du Soleil - the worlds largest interconnected ski area - offering 650 km of pistes for all abilities that traverse the border country between France and Switzerland in winter - and transform into the worlds leading collection of mountain bike trails during the summer. The very chic lakeside resort of Evian-les-Bains sits in an idyllic location at the foot of the valley, on the shores of Lake Leman, opposite the lakeside towns of the Swiss Riviera - Lausanne, Vevey and Montreux. Famed for the quality and healing capabilities of its water, Evian also offers a rich and diverse mix of cultural, art and sporting activities - playing host to regular concerts and art exhibitions as well as major sporting events, including the the Annual Ladies Masters Golf Tournament at the Evian Royal Golf club. The world famous Montreux Jazz Festival takes place close by for three weeks in July each year. In between Evian and Chatel, the Abondance Valley offers peace, quiet and stunning views and vistas from a host of small Savoyard hamlets and villages located along the valley. Whether your interests are mountain, lake or a combination of both - including skiing, mountain biking, climbing, canyoning, white water rafting, beaches, swimming, sailing, music, art, theatre, gastronomy, wine and more, this wonderfully diverse region undoubtedly has something for you.

• Emma Casanova

  Aravis/Annecy

  La Clusaz, Grand Bornand, Manigod, Thones, La Giettaz

  When someone says Lake Annecy, it is unlikely you will hear the word "boring" because there is only one word that springs to my mind when describing here :"awesome". And this is not set to change. Whether its strolling through the cobbled streets of medieval Annecy, shopping on the Rue Royale or sampling local wine and cheese, there is more to do here than there are days in the year, and after 15 years living here, I am still 'doing'.Lake Annecy is a nature base for all things outdoors but it is also steeped in history. Skiing and winter sports are obviously popular when you see the surrounding mountains, the snow then gives way to psychedelic green pastures and warm summer sunshine. Swim in the waters of Europe's cleanest lake, or hike up Annecy's highest 2352m summit called La Tournette for a lorry-load of fresh air, take in the outstanding 360° panorama of the Alps looking over to the Mont Blanc as far as La Meije, climb the the north face of the Pointe Percée in the Aravis, or cycle one of the gruelling "Cols" in the Tour de France. The crew come through here each year as well as other major sports events such as Red Bull's paragliding X-Alps and their triathlon Red Bull Elements.As well as the lake and mountains, there is also gastronomy, history and culture. The famous artist Rembrandt and Prime Minister Winston Churchill spent their summers at the Abbaye in Talloires, a picturesque bay and historical village on the eastern shores of Lake Annecy. Here, Michelin-starred restaurants are in abundance, as are jazz concerts, art exhibitions and firework displays throughout the year. Annecy's strategic position has been linked to a long line of history since the findings of Gallic tribes of Allobroges dating from 4BC. The Romans were also here, as were the Dukes of Savoy and latterly, German occupation during the Second World War. There are numerous monuments, relics, and historical buildings that better describe outline the historical diversity in the area.Transport to Lake Annecy is fast and simple with Geneva international airport only 50km's away to the north of the town on the motorway, where the main arteries also fast-track you to any one of 6 the major ski resorts: La Clusaz, Le Grand Bornand, Manigod, Merdassier, Semnoz and Sambuy. France's TGV also stops at Annecy and you can get here from the UK in less than a day.My family and I love living here, we still marvel at Lake Annecy's uniqueness. I'd be delighted to find you a home here too and feel confident you will agree, that there is nowhere else quite like it.

• Solène Grevaz

  Portes du Soleil

  Les Gets

  I grew up just 10 minutes from Les Gets and after a long stint in Paris chose the Portes du Soleil as home. Unlike many purpose built resorts Les Gets and neighbouring Morzine began life as small farming villages, long before Skiing existed and today Les Gets retains that quaint village feel. Over the years the area has grown with properties scattered across both sides of the valley meaning the valley offers a range of styles from the original Savoyard buildings for a traditional mountain lifestyle to the very latest chalet construction fit for building a chalet business. Just an hour from Geneva, Les Gets is hugely popular with both English holiday makers and French families as a ski destination and one of the very best walking, Mountain biking areas in the summer. I wouldn't live anywhere else

• Victoria Blacker

  Les Deux Alpes

  Alpe d huez

  I have been living in Alpe d'Huez since 2005, I was drawn to its breath taking scenary, and its south facing exposure, honouring its name, “l'ile au soleil” the island in the sun. Alpe d'Huez, albeit secluded high up in the Grandes Rousses Massif, has all the amenities of a small town. Rich in numerous sporting activities throughout the seasons; skiing, hiking, climbing, horse riding, mountain biking, fishing, parapenting and of coarse road cycling. Every other year, Alpe d'Huez hosts a stage of the Tour de France, and as soon as the snow melts, cyclists flock to accomplish one of the “must do” ascents in a cyclists' agenda. Alpe d'Huez has a lot to offer the active person as well as the person who just needs to have a time of peace and tranquillity in this beautiful mountain range.The resort is set at an altitude of 1850m, has been developing as a resort since 1936. The resort culminates with the ‘Pic Blanc' whose summit at 3330m gives incredible panoramas of the Ecrins National Park and its famous peaks, the Rateau, the Meije, the Muzelle, the Aiguilles d'Arves, the Belledonne and Mont Blanc.1 hour from Grenoble train station, 1 ½ hours from Grenoble airport, 2 hours from Lyon and 3 hours from Geneva

• Marco Chiaudano

  Chamonix Mont Blanc

  Chamonix

  I was born in Turin, Italy, where i have lived for almost 40 years. Beautiful town surrounded by hills and mountains. I got to know the Chamonix valley thanks to my great passions: mountains and trail running. And the first time i came here it’s been love at first sight! And finally, after almost 14 years of banking job i decided to move and live in the mountains. That has been my dream come true, and my aim with Leggett is to help those who, like me, dream of a mountain life in the stunning French Alps.

• Honor Poole

  Pyrénées-Orientales

  I first came here with my husband in 2005, we bought and renovated a house to become a catered ski chalet in the French Pyrenees. Having moved on from this activity, with a small family, we do still live locally to our first adventure! This area is magnetic..........We have loved France from the moment we arrived and don't regret a thing! We enjoy the vast ski area up in the Pyrenees Orientales and neighbouring Spanish and Andorran resorts, the beautiful mountain hikes for all levels and the summer is just spectacular with a multitude of lakes to picnic alongside!Previously I have worked as a yachtmaster sailing instructor and area manager, so I truly enjoy helping and working with a variety of people in different places.Working as an agent for Leggett is an exciting job for me, as I get to visit some amazing and interesting properties in this fabulous place and truly enjoy helping people find their dream here in France.

• Emily Jones

  Haute-Savoie

  Flaine, Les Carroz

  Flaine is known for its unique architecture – the original resort was designed in the 1960’s by renowned architect Marcel Breuer in the ‘Bauhaus’ style, with the goal of creating a contemporary resort that blended into its environment, and to this day it is the only ski resort in France designated as a listed historical monument. At the highest point in the Grand Massif ski area, Flaine has an excellent reputation for holding its snow, aided by the enclosed bowl-shape of the ski area, which offers some protection from the elements. It also means it’s difficult to get lost, as all pistes lead down into the centre of resort, making it a favourite with parents whose kids may like to ‘wander off’ from their ski groups! The various levels of Flaine also offer a wide choice of restaurants and bars for those looking to relax after a hard day on the mountain. Les Carroz, just down the road, is a bustling town popular with holiday-makers in winter and summer alike. Situated in the heart of the Grand Massif, it’s a great base from which to access the entire ski area, including the neighbouring resorts of Samoens, Morillon and Sixt Fer-a-Cheval. Both resorts are also open during the summer months and attract numerous visitors for wide-ranging activities, from mountain biking Les Carroz’s downhill trails or relaxing at it’s huge Aquacime spa centre, to enjoying stunning views while hiking above Flaine or taking in the numerous family-friendly activities put on by the tourist office, including trampolining, table tennis, climbing and archery. There is also an 18-hole golf course situated on the Col de Pierre Carrée above Flaine that offers amazing panoramic views over the resort and is popular with locals and visitors alike. There are also plenty of exciting places to explore nearby, with Geneva, Chamonix and Annecy all located within 1 to 2 hours drive.

• Carole Cavet

  Portes du Soleil

  Les Gets

  10 reasons to choose Portes du Soleil - Morzine, Les Gets. The closest Alpine area to the Channel ports and just a 75 minute easy transfer from Geneva international airport. The huge Portes du Soleil ski area with 650kms of interlinked ski pistes, for all levels of ability, + 7 snow parks, spanning 13 resorts in 2 countries (France and Switzerland), all on one lift pass. Constant investment in infrastructure that makes sure the ski area is always at the top of its game. Internationally renowned resorts of Morzine, Les Gets, Avoriaz offering everything visitors need - restaurants, bars, mountain cafés, après ski activities, nightlife, and a comprehensive programme of special events such as the hugely popular ‘Rock the Pistes’... Fantastic choice of property for buyers depending on their search criteria, from modern, luxury apartments in the main resorts to a traditional farm in one of the charming Savoyard villages close by. Strongly sought after rental area (if you’re thinking of renting some weeks). Or imagine Home Exchange possibilities worldwide! Dynamic summer season with hugely increasing popularity of mountain biking and road biking. Both Morzine and Les Gets are firmly on the mountain/road biking calendar with internationally recognised events such as the Tour de France and Crankworx.... Loads of activities for a fantastic summer holiday - MTB, mountain walks, sunbathing by the lakes, water sports, white water rafting, paragliding, tennis, golf Easy access to resorts of Evian, Thonon, Yvoire, on Lake Geneva, with their cobbled streets and pavement cafés, sailing centres and outdoor water parks. Spring and Autumn - the secret seasons of homeowners, when the tourists have gone - with amazing Spring flowers, Autumn colours to rival New England, typical Savoyard events and traditions like the Autumn wine fair and the procession of cattle up to Alpine pasture in the Spring and back down in the Autumn.

• Chris Cole

  La Giettaz, Notre-Dame-de-Bellecombe, Praz-sur-Arly, Crest-Voland, Flumet, Les Saisies

  Espace Diamant

  Tucked neatly between the Aravis and Beaufortain mountains of northern Savoie, the Val d’Arly comprises the pretty villages of Crest-Voland, Flumet, La Giettaz, Notre Dame de Bellecombe and St.Nicolas la Chapelle. Add to this the bustling resorts of Praz-sur-Arly and Les Saisies, and there is a huge variety of fabulous Alpine property on offer to suit every budget. The area is extremely well positioned, with two superb, crowd-free ski areas (the Espace Diamant and the Portes du Mont-Blanc) on our doorstep. Further skiing and a healthy dose of Alpine glamour are close at hand in Megève and La Clusaz. Annecy and Chamonix are both under an hour away and Geneva and Lyon Airports are also within easy reach. The area is characterised by lush pastureland and verdant forest, all under the calm gaze of Mont Blanc, which is visible from almost every corner. In addition to piste skiing, winter offers outstanding opportunities for ski touring and snowshoeing, as well as cross- country skiing on the Olympic trails of Les Saisies. For the remainder of the year, we are spoiled by some of Europe’s finest hiking, road cycling (the Tour de France is a regular visitor to the area), mountain biking and many other outdoor activities. The autumn colours of the region are breathtaking and above all, the authentic year-round sense of community makes the Val d’Arly one of the most appealing corners of the Alps for residents and tourists alike.

• Jonathan Duncan

  Massif des Bauges

  Chartreuse

  Lac du Bourget and Lac d’Aiguebelette are little known gems at the foot of the French Alps. Lac du Bourget, the largest natural lake in France, is known for its historic, cosmopolitan and genteel, spa town of Aix-Les-Bains, made famous by the visits of Queen Victoria in the 1800s. Today, bustling Aix-Les-Bains, at the foot of ‘the Bauges’ mountain range (Natural Regional Park), has all the expected facilities for a town of 30,000 people and 200,000 annual visitors. A little further south (15km) is the historic town of Chambery (population 75,000), the ancient capital of Savoie, the administrative centre of the Department, with its pretty historic centre with a multitude of shops and boutiques. Chambery and Aix Les Bains have some of the best services and facilities - good international schools (private or state run), all the expected urban amenities. The area is nationally renowned for its sports facilities (from alpine and cross-country skiing, to sailing and rowing to hiking, cycling, paragliding to football, rugby, tennis, athletics and horse riding). Just over the narrow Epine mountain chain from Aix and Chambery, is France’s third largest natural lake, Lac d’Aiguebelette - the warmest (up to 28°C) and cleanest (no motor boats) natural lake in France. The emerald-turquoise waters of ‘Aiguebelette’ are staunchly protected and have a ‘Natural Reserve’ status, limiting development around the lake, as well as a European Union ‘Eco-Tourism’ destination designation. The lake is big draw for those wanting to swim, row, canoe or just relax in tranquility on the lake’s many beaches. Returning visitors are drawn by a tranquil and beautiful, yet dynamic region and many decide to stay and make a life here.

• Carole Lobertreau

  Portes du Soleil

  Morzine, St Jean d'Aulps, Le Biot, Abondance

  This area is amazing, and I fell in love with it at first sight. The mountain landscape is fabulous in every season and the skiing in the winter is amazing. It is also a community where people live all year and not just a ski resort. It provides such a lovely and friendly atmosphere. There are activities for everyone and life all year round. Whatever attracts you to the mountains you will find: Skiing, boarding, down hill biking, hiking, horse riding, kayaking, as well as swimming, chilling and relaxing, always surrounded by superb panorama. We are also so close to Lake Léman, it is just a half an hour drive away down to the lovely lakeside town Thonon- les-Bains. There are so many other amazing places like Evian-les-Bains, Geneva, Montreux, Lausanne, Annecy, Saint Gervais-les-Bains, Megève, Chamonix Mont Blanc, I couldn’t dream of any better location between lake and mountains. On top of this there is the amazingly practical closeness and access to Geneva Airport permitting to travel so easily all over the world. So many things to do, so many things to see, so much to appreciate. If you’re not convinced, just come for a visit and I will pass on to you my love of this area and properties. See you soon

• Aline Socquet

  Paradiski

  La Plagne, Montchavin les Coches, Bourg Saint Maurice, Plagne Montalbert, Villaroger

  The Paradiski resort is one of the largest ski areas in the world. As a ski instructor in winter, I practice it every day and it offers more than 400km of slopes for all levels and many off-piste as well for advanced skiers. Located quite high in altitude it allows to have snow from mid December to the end of April. In the summer the mountain is really nice too with lot of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, paragliding… The quality of life if exceptional all year with changing seasons and rhymes, going from the frenzy of the winter and snowy landscapes, to the calm of spring and autumn allowing you to discover hidden faces of the area and the long sunny summer days. This area offers opportunities for everyone in primary or holiday residence: traditional mountain chalet, old farm to renovate, all size apartments and land to build your very own chalet.