Jackson COLLINS's selection of French property for sale

About my area

ABOUT THE SOUTHERN ALPS

Covering the geographical area south west of Grenoble all the way over to the Italian frontier and then everything south, lies the southern Alps. Within them are a treasure trove of ski resorts, some well known like Serre Chevalier and Montgenevre. This great diversity in mountain resorts gives us a fabulous choice when it comes to buying property in the Alps. Wether you are looking for foot of piste access or a remote hide-away, this vast yet relatively unknown area has something for everyone.

SERRE CHEVALIER

This “jewel in the crown” is one of the best kept secrets in the southern alps. Here the high tree line coupled with amazing off piste make it an all-round ski paradise. Unlike many other mountain resorts, The Serre Chevalier Valley is made up of many villages and hamlets as well as the town of Briancon, the highest town in France. Monetier Les Bains, the highest of the villages ,has a typical alpine atmosphere as well as having the beautiful open air spa baths. Here you can relax after a hard days ski and enjoy the magnificent views of the hanging glacier and snow capped peaks. Serre Chevalier isn't a purpose built resort and as such is an ideal place to consider having an alpine home with all of the facilities associated with normal living – transport, education and shops. At the same time this amazing resort is only a few kms away from hidden valleys, high mountain pastures and the vast Ecrin national park. Transport to Serre Chevalier is much easier than before with regular flights to both Grenoble and Turin airports.

Montgenevre

As part of the Voie Lactee (milky way) ski domain, Montgenevre sits on the edge of the 3rd largest ski area in the world. Built in 1907, it is said to be one of the first ever purpose built resorts in france. Montgenevre is a popular family resort with easy piste access and beginner/toddler slopes in the heart of the town. In summer the lower slopes transform in to a 9 hole golf course, whilst the higher slopes become part of the very challenging Montgenevre Downhill Mountain Bike Park. Access to Montgenevre is easy with daily flights to Turin airport, only 1 hour away.

About me

I first came to Serre Chevalier over 22 years ago and immediately felt there was something special and unique about the place. It wasn't until 4 years later that I moved here permanently and I have definitely not looked back since. I was brought up in South London and could never have imagined living in a place like this when I was young. Now my partner and I have just had our first little girl and I am already excited about being able to ski, ride, hike and paddle with her as she grows up. Serre Chevalier and Briancon are unlike most other mountain resorts in so many ways. The town is the highest is France (the highest in Europe if you discount Davos in Switzerland), and the ski- resort has grown naturally and slowly since the first cable car was built in 1941, when it was the longest cable car in europe. In winter the 4th largest ski domain in France enjoys a high tree line and off-piste that challenges the most accomplished of skiers and boarders. In the spring and summer months the whole area becomes a playground for mountain bikers, climbers, white water fans and of course the road bikers following the legendary paths of their heroes in the Tour de France. In my time here I have been involved in several small businesses, and have always enjoyed tackling the challenges they present in another country and language. Now I look forward to helping others who wish to benefit from all that this amazing part of the world has to offer.