Property in Tignes
While some French ski resorts retain a traditional Alpine aesthetic, Tignes' town has a more modern, functional design. This aspect attracts property investors seeking practicality and access to top-notch skiing as well as prices that can be up to 50% cheaper than nearby Val d’Isere.
Located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, the resort is made up of four distinct villages, each providing its own unique character and property options.
Tignes Le Lac serves as the central hub of the resort, bustling with activity and offering immediate access to the slopes.
Val Claret, the highest village, is celebrated for its modern amenities and vibrant après-ski scene.
Les Boisses and Les Brévières, located at lower altitudes, provide a more traditional atmosphere and quieter surroundings, perfect for those seeking a more traditional French alpine retreat.
Apartments are the most common type of property, particularly in Le Lac and Val Claret. These range from compact studios ideal for rental investments to expansive luxury penthouses with sweeping mountain views. Chalets, although less common, can be found in villages like Les Brévières and Les Boisses. These properties are typically larger and more traditional, providing luxurious accommodations and access to quieter, scenic areas.
The property market in Tignes reflects its strong demand. Chalets vary in price, generally ranging from €1.5 million to over €4 million, with more affordable options in Les Brévières and higher prices near the main ski areas.
Apartments, while typically more affordable, range from €8,000 to €15,000 per m2. Larger and more luxurious apartments in prime locations like Le Lac or Val Claret can easily exceed these figures.
For investors, Tignes offers attractive rental yields. The resort's reputation for reliable snow and extensive ski terrain ensures steady property value growth, with strong rental demand supporting consistent appreciation, especially in prime ski-in/ski-out locations.
Winter in Tignes
Tignes stands as a premier winter destination in the French Alps, celebrated for its high-altitude slopes, diverse terrain, and exceptional facilities. Tignes guarantees reliable snow throughout the winter and near-year-round glacier skiing.
The Tignes ski area, part of the Espace Killy, offers over 300 km of pistes when combined with Val d'Isère. Tignes alone features around 150 km of slopes suitable for all levels. The resort includes various sectors: Tignes Le Lac, centrally located and ideal for all levels; Val Claret, the highest village, providing access to the glacier and challenging skiing; and Tignes 1800 & Les Brévières, lower areas known for picturesque settings and tree-lined runs. A highlight is the Grande Motte Glacier, standing at 3,456 meters, offering excellent snow year-round and accessible via a funicular.
Families and beginners will find Tignes accommodating with several dedicated learning areas, including the ESF (École du Ski Français) ski schools. The resort features multiple magic carpets and "easy ski" zones for young skiers, as well as kids' clubs and nurseries for younger children.
Snowboarders will also find Tignes appealing, home to one of Europe’s premier snow parks with kickers, rails, boxes, and half-pipes. The Swatch Snowpark in Val Claret is a must-visit for freestylers, and the open pistes are ideal for carving.
Tignes offers a lively après-ski scene with a focus on casual bars rather than flashy nightlife. Popular spots include Le Loop Bar in Le Lac, known for its vibrant atmosphere and spacious outdoor terrace; Le Coffee, a laid-back bar with live music and après-ski drinks; and Le Grizzly, which offers a cosy, alpine-themed experience. For a more lively atmosphere, La Folie Douce at the top of the slopes hosts open-air parties with DJs and dancers.
The resort also hosts a variety of events throughout the winter season, such as Live in Tignes by Francofolies, a multi-day music festival with performances on the slopes, and X Games Europe, an extreme sports competition showcasing international talent.
Other amenities include the Aqua Centre – Le Lagon, a large swimming pool and wellness centre in Tignes Le Lac featuring saunas, steam rooms, and jacuzzis. You can also enjoy sports activities like ice diving, dog sledding, snowshoeing, and paragliding, along with an ice skating rink and a bowling alley.
Tignes is closely linked to Val d’Isère via ski lifts or buses, offering additional skiing, dining, and après-ski options. The nearby town of Bourg-Saint-Maurice provides a more traditional Alpine experience if you’re seeking a change of pace.
Summer in Tignes
In summer, Tignes offers a tranquil mountain escape with fewer visitors, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a quieter retreat.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Tignes. There are hiking trails catering to all levels, from the easy loop around Le Lac de Tignes to the challenging trek to Col de la Leisse.
The area also has over 150 km of mountain biking trails, offering thrilling descents for both beginners and experts. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, and pedal boating on Lac de Tignes, with options for wakeboarding and water skiing.
Paragliding in Tignes provides a bird’s-eye view of the stunning alpine scenery, while the 18-hole Golf du Lac de Tignes, one of Europe’s highest courses, offers challenging play amid breathtaking alpine vistas.
Families will find plenty of activities to keep children entertained. Tignes Adventure Park features zip lines, obstacle courses, and climbing structures, while Le Lagon Aquatic Center offers pools, water slides, a spa, and a gym for family fun. Mini-golf and a trampoline park near the lake provide additional entertainment, and interactive nature trails engage children.
Summer in Tignes is also marked by various events and festivals. The Tignes Trail Running Festival is a multi-day event for trail runners of all levels, while the Fête du Lac in July celebrates Tignes’ lakes with live music, food stalls, and fireworks. The Tignes Festi Val features outdoor concerts, performances, and cultural activities.
For those who want to explore beyond Tignes, there are nearby options to consider. Vanoise National Park is just a short drive away and is perfect for day hikes and wildlife spotting. Annecy, about two hours away by car, is a picturesque town known for its stunning lake, medieval architecture, and charming cafes.
