Vacation rentals: where to invest in mountain property?

Are you a prospective buyer looking to dive into the world of vacation rentals, and considering the mountains? From occupancy rates to nightly rates*, your Airbnb property management service, Welkeys, is here to provide the keys to help you easily choose the right resort for your rental investment.

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We saw it this summer: the French aren't just fans of winter sports; they also love spending their summer vacations enjoying our beautiful peaks. Highly sought after during holiday periods and a popular choice for professional seminars, mountain vacation rentals are a financially attractive idea. Furthermore, by opting for short-term rentals, you retain the ability to access your property whenever you like and only rent it out when you choose. But before you start planning your calendar, you first need to know where your rental investment will be located. Will it be in…

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… Alpe d’Huez ?

Nicknamed the "Island in the Sun" and voted "Best Ski Resort in Europe" in 2017, Alpe d’Huez attracts tourists and vacationers year-round, both summer and winter. Its 155 miles of slopes and exceptional sunshine are major draws, as is the famous Tomorrowland Winter music festival, which has boosted the resort's international profile since its debut in March 2019. Located just about 37 miles from Grenoble, the resort has no fewer than 1,400 active Airbnb and HomeAway listings, with an occupancy rate of around 80% in February and 42% annually (based on current year data). As for host earnings, they average about 99 euros per day (nightly rate + cleaning fees).

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 … Chamonix ?

Facing Mont-Blanc and located near Italy and Switzerland, Chamonix is an internationally renowned destination, making it one of the most cosmopolitan resorts in the Savoy region. Plus, thanks to a wide range of activities popular with travelers and an equally entertaining nightlife, Chamonix stays lively all year long. In June, for example, the Mont-Blanc Marathon keeps the resort buzzing!

With over 3 million nights booked each year, we count more than 3,000 active listings on booking platforms. Since there are more rentals here than in Alpe d’Huez, competition can be stiffer. However, the nightly income generated is also higher: about 130 euros on average (160 in December). As for the average occupancy rate, it has been 45% over the last twelve months (76% in August).

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… Megève ?

Located in the heart of the Mont-Blanc massif, the village of Megève and its ski resort are also a highly popular vacation destination, especially in December, when the nightly rate can reach up to 230 euros. It must be said that with a majestic tree decorated by Swarovski in the village square and numerous festivities, the holiday season is celebrated in style in Megève! In summer, various sporting and musical events are also offered to visitors, such as the Jumping International de Megève or the Blues Festival. These highlights guarantee profitable activity for rental property owners. In 2016, hosts earned an average of €3,700, which is well above the national average.

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Currently, there are about 820 active vacation rental listings in Megève.

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… La Clusaz ?

Thanks to its renowned relaxed lifestyle and excellent hospitality, the resort of La Clusaz is now part of the "Top of the French Alps," a club of the largest French resorts. Located just 19 miles from Annecy and 50 minutes from Geneva International Airport, La Clusaz offers a multitude of sports, leisure, and wellness activities. Year after year, the resort and its vast ski area attract an international clientele, with an occupancy rate of 72% in February (35% on average over the last twelve months). The average nightly rate is 120 euros, reaching around 155 euros in December.

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*all numerical data is sourced from airdna.co