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What is the World’s Oldest Ski Resort?

Posted on 11 September 2022

Our team at Skiing Property asked us what the world’s oldest ski resort is. Unfortunately, we did not know the answer, so we did a deep delve into Google. There is no solid concrete proof as to which ski resort has reigned supreme as the longest. But a few publications captured our attention because they said La Clusaz in France is the oldest resort and this is a place close to our heart. French Alps La Clusaz boasts of traditional village charm.  Over roughly 16 square miles, La Clusaz is home to approximately 2000 residents, but during winter this population swells as people worldwide flock to enjoy skiing. This French resort displays everything typical about an alpine lifestyle and it is hard not to fall in love with it, at first sight.

The World’s Oldest Ski Resort

1: Delightful La Clusaz

This picturesque village in a prime position in the Rhône-Alpes region has hosted winter sports since 1907, making this place France’s and the world’s oldest resort. Since its establishment, La Clusaz has set up 132 kilometres of ski runs ranging from beginners to challenging red and black runs. As part of Aravis Valley, altogether skiers enjoy 140 miles of pistes. But during spring through to autumn, La Clusaz earns fame because of the many beautiful lakes nearby. La Clusaz always delights every ski fan with five terrain parks, 70 kilometres to cross country runs and 84 pistes. Of course, La Clusaz delights in ski opportunities, but off the slopes, residents and skiers have just as much to look forward to.

LaClusaz

From the local Monday market to off-slope activities like horse sleigh, sledging and hiking, La Clusaz accommodates everyone regardless of age. We love exploring traditional alpine shops which sell alpine cuisine products like pastries, wines, and cheeses. Overall, delightful La Clusaz has every right to call itself the world’s oldest ski resort and take pride in itself. Even though la Clusaz excels in rustic charm, do not underestimate the real estate market. For example, these five-bedroom chalets are priced at over 3 million euros, and feature 250 square meters of interior living space.

world's oldest ski resort

Each property is spacious, with current plans accommodating five en-suite bedrooms across four floors. Enjoy outside dining on the large terrace for 12 people, that is accessed via the expansive main floor then jump into the outdoor Jacuzzi bath, from which you can see panoramic views. The mezzanine floor is ideal for a cinema room, whilst the ground floor will be home to the indoor swimming pool and a sauna. So, as well as doing traditional charm, La Clusaz does exquisite luxury with style. (Reference number 196)

But it is worth mentioning nearby Chamonix!

2: About Chamonix

Sitting close to the junction of Italy, France and Switzerland and one hour’s drive from La Clusaz, Chamonix, also called Chamonix Mont Blanc, is another one of the world’s pioneering ski resorts, having hosted the first 1924 winter Olympics. Sitting at the foot of the 4810 metre Mont Blanc, year-round cable cars take skiers to the Aiguille du Midi and Pointe Helbronner peaks on the Italian border. With around 5 million visitors every year, skiers can explore 245 square kilometres and retrace the footsteps of mountaineers who have studied these areas for over 100 years. At just 75 minutes’ drive from Geneva airport, Chamonix attracts weekend skiers looking for a quick break away from the office. Italy is just 15 minutes’ drive away, and the train to Switzerland makes this a great base to explore all three countries. Expect the best with four mountains and 152 kilometres of ski runs for skiing. Skiers can access the Mont Blanc ski area with 248 lifts taking avid skiers to 490 pisted and 952 kilometres of downhill ski routes.

Aside from skiing, Chamonix is famous all year round, thanks to the vast range of summer activities, including hiking, paragliding, golf, the ice rink, tennis, helicopter sightseeing tour, nature reserves, adventure park, and theme parks. Lastly, let us not forget “step into the void”, a glass-sided box with stunning views of Mont Blanc and a 1000-meter drop under your feet.

chamonix property

Chamonix does an equally incredible job on the real estate market, with most price tags fetching over a million euros. These four bedrooms, 4-bathroom villas sit in the heart of Chamonix and feature delightful décor and design. (Ref number 332)

Also, About Ski Resorts

World’s Best Ski Resorts:  When looking at the world’s best ski resorts, be amazed at the global map stretching from New Zealand to Japan to America and the time-honoured favourites; France and Switzerland. While skiing scenes in the past always targeted elite society, these days, many mainstream ski markets excel as popular winter destinations for everyone regardless of class, money, or status. So, let us look where to go to experience top-notch skiing holidays.

Europe’s Most Luxury Ski Resort: Luxurious ski resorts in Europe appear everywhere including in France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. But, Courchevel 1850 in Saint-Bon-Tarentaise in Tarentaise Valley ranks as Europe’s most luxurious ski resort. The annual numbers of ski visitors turn into millions. So, if you are not interested in what is the world’s oldest ski resort, get yourself to this luxury ski resort for fine living in France.

what is the world's oldest ski resort