The market

The Swiss ski resort of Verbier is fourth in the Savills Global Ski Resort Prime Price League, with asking prices of prime residential properties just over CHF22,000 per sq m, rising to just under CHF32,000 per sq m for super prime properties

A chronic shortage of new development sites, caused by recent planning changes and the more draconian Lex Weber second homes legislation, will do nothing to harm the already premium prices of this resort. This season the snow conditions across the Alps are some of the best in 30 years and this should erase any doubts among potential buyers of the long-term investability of Verbier.

Resort overview

In Verbier, the commune of Bagnes is busy redeveloping the sports centre, as well as the train and lift station at the foot of the resort in Le Chable. This is a total regeneration project costing CHF27 million which will include an underground train station and a further 46,000 sq m of development potential. There is talk of permanent football training academy. A new 45-seater gondola, running at 10 m per second, opened this season which takes 400 people per hour to the top of Mont Gelé. There is another lift planned from Le Rouge to Savoleyres, however this is pending approval.

Apart from the recent addition of the prestigious W Verbier hotel, which has significantly smartened the departure and arrival area of Médran lift station, there are rumours of a new Mandarin Oriental hotel. This would be welcome in a resort top heavy with private chalets and lacking, at least until recently, world-class hotels. Meanwhile, Vie Montagne, part of the exclusive Rosalp development on Rue de Médran, opened in September 2017 and has proved hugely popular this season. Vie Montagne, spearheaded by renowned restaurant entrepreneur Tom Etridge, is a hybrid restaurant and members club concept, with two restaurants and a stylish bar area with its own artisanal micro-brewery.

Insider's tip

My favourite pit stop in the Four Valleys is Chalet Novelly in Siviez. Tucked away off the main drag below Combatselline, this quaint mountain cabin has a sunny terrace from which to soak up the mountain rays. The perfect hangout for a beer and a homemade burger after a gruelling hack down Tortin or a powder adventure down 'Stairway to Heaven'.

Further information

View available properties in Verbier