Alpine Property sells ski chalets and apartments in Portes du Soleil, Grand Massif, Aravis, Megeve, Chamonix

ESPACE DIAMANT : OVERVIEW

The Espace Diamant was first conceived in December 2005 by the grouping together of 6 individual ski stations in the Beaufortain region: Praz sur Arly, Flumet, Notre Dame de Bellecombe, Crest-Voland/Cohennoz in Val d'Arly, Les Saisies and Hauteluce. This 185km ski domain comprises 148 ski runs comprising: 31 green runs, 59 blue runs, 47 red and 11 black runs, and not forgetting 4 boardercross routes, 5 slalom runs and 3 snowparks. The Espace Diamant encompasses areas of both the Haute Savoie and Savoie departments and links the Beaufortain mountains to those of the Val d'Arly (Megève). It consists mainly of mid-altitude ski stations but the prevailing weather systems of Mont Blanc ensure a good winter snow record for the area.

The attraction of the Espace Diamant undoubtedly lies in it's diversity of alpine ski areas but also worthy of a mention are it's Nordic and cross country routes, set in beautiful surroundings plus the 146km of ski runs and winter stadium at Les Saisies where, in 1992, it hosted some of the events for the Albertville winter Olympics. The area offers superb 360° panoramas, accessible to all, from the most die-hard skiers to lovers of more gentle winter activities.

Great care is being taken, as the area expands both it's infrastructure of ski lifts and accommodation, to ensure considered and sustainable development. The area has a large farming and agricultural tradition, so new buildings and developments are carefully controlled in order to respect the environment and natural beauty which is already well known by French and international clients who appreciate the peaceful surroundings and gentle pace of life in the mountains. The Espace Diamant has built up a loyal clientele, due in no small part to the welcoming attitude of the permanent inhabitants, combined with a warm and festive ambiance all year round.

The region offers good investment potential, thanks to it's restrictions on over-development and it's proximity to the more widely renowned ski resorts of the Megève area. Much of the special attraction of this area lies with the picturesque scenery, the omnipresent Savoyard and mountain traditions, the pace of life in rhythm with the sound of the cowbells in the summer months when the cows are in the pastures, and in tasting the famous local, appellation controlee, cheeses. The area also witnesses the annual spectacle of the Tour de France as it passes through Megève and the Espace Diamant.

A considerable budget has been invested in the development of a wide range of summer activities to ensure a year-round resort. These include the creation of summer bathing areas, a 600km network of VTT and walking routes (the 'Espace Diamant Vert (green)'), Via Ferrata, climbing, canyoning, rafting and paragliding.

STRENGTHS

#Each ski station has it's own individual character and charm, with peaceful surroundings and typically Savoyard villages.
#The Espace Diamant offers a diversity of ski slopes through varied and tree lined scenery, plus good quality mountain restaurants.
#Easy access via road from Albertville/A43 or via Sallanches/A40, and by air from Lyon/Saint Exupéry airport (166km) Geneva airport (106km).
#Ideal for families, with plenty of attractions for children throughout the year.
#Area known for production of outstanding cheeses (Beaufort, Reblochon, Tomme de Savoie), with cheese tastings available in the dairy cooperatives at Flumet, Les Saisies and Beaufort.

WEAKNESSES

#Predominantly mid-altitude ski stations which may lack snow at the beginning of the season but this is made up for by the presence of a large number of snow canons.
#More challenging and technical skiing, for advanced skiiers, is a 30 minute drive away at Chamonix.
#Less prestigious than it's near neighbour, Megève.