Switzerland’s rail network is reliable to the second, and there’s something equally reassuring about the quality and lifestyle offered by its most prestigious ski resorts. Figures from the upcoming Savills Ski Report 2022/23 illustrate their enduring appeal for property purchasers, with Swiss resorts taking five of the top 10 spots in the Savills prime price league. Additionally, St Moritz, Verbier and Crans Montana have made significant leaps in this index of the world’s leading ski resorts, rising between three and five places over the past 12 months.
This success reflects the comfortable lifestyle and year-round appeal that Swiss resorts offer prime property buyers. From the solid stone buildings of St Moritz to the contemporary wooden chalets of Verbier, they welcome back a loyal and affluent clientele year after year, in summer as well as winter – increasingly, says Sam Scott, head of Savills Verbier, for extended stays.
“As people alter the way they work, it’s noticeable that properties previously considered holiday homes are becoming more of a primary residence, somewhere to spend longer periods each year,” he explains. “In the Alps, people are looking for a true year-round community, resorts with plenty of buzz in summer as well as winter, and that’s where the luxury Swiss resorts at the top of our Prime Index excel. Residents can enjoy a high-end lifestyle with excellent services and facilities that don’t close once the snow has melted, including Michelin-starred restaurants and international schools. Purchasers are reassured by the proximity to cities and international airports, too.”
Savills Ski Prime Index is based on the average asking price per square metre for homes priced over €750,000 in more than 40 global ski resorts. Verbier leads the European resorts in the rankings this year, climbing three places since the 2021 index, with an average price of €27,800 per square metre. The other four Swiss resorts in the top 10 are St Moritz (€23,900), Gstaad (€23,500), Zermatt (€22,000) and Andermatt (€21,300). Crans Montana, where a Six Senses hotel and spa with residences is due to open in December 2022, has risen five places to 14th, with an average asking price of €15,800 per square metre. “Buyers know they’re investing in a safe and economically sound country in Switzerland,” says Scott.
Savills Ski Report 2022/23 is now available.
Pictures from top: winter view of St Moritz at dusk (Getty); Chalet Telemark in Villars, outside and in; the autumn colours of Graubunden, Switzerland (Alamy)
