As more and more people look to escape the pressures of a heavy work load for a few weeks of the year, there is hot competition among the top ski resorts of the world. Where tourism leads, the property market is sure to follow and there are some very interesting investment opportunities arising in this often lucrative market. Some of the top ski related property markets to consider are:-

Canada : Whistler Resort

The beauty of the Whistler resort is the fact that skiing is available all year around and with 46 feet of snow last winter; the conditions are just perfect for tourism and property investors. The fact that Whistler is set to host the 2010 Inter Olympics is a major attraction with the property market in the area already reflecting this huge win. The average capital gain on ski resort studios and chalets is currently running at 10% a year.

France : Vaujaby Resort

Vaujaby is one of the new breed of resorts which is small in size but has connections with all of the major resorts and slopes in the area. While the Alps have always been popular with the skiing industry some of the larger resorts have seen property prices rocket beyond the reach of many. Currently we are seeing in excess of 8% average property prices gains per annum, and as more and more people notice the potential this is set to rise. The relatively small size of the resort will also impact heavily on the supply side, pushing prices higher and higher.

USA : Vail Resort

The Vail Resort has always been a regular in the 5 resorts around the world and this is set to continue for some time yet. Boasting one of the largest ski terrains in the world, as well as excellent facilities, this is reflected in property prices which can be anything up to £10 million. Many resorts may come and go from the top 5 list, but Vail Resort offers good long term prospects for property investors.

Italy : Courmayeur Resort

The Courmayeur Resort has long been a regular hang out for the rich and famous with property prices reflecting the exclusive nature of the resort. Many of the properties in the area are owned by either large corporations or wealthy private individuals, meaning that affordable property can often be difficult to come by. However, the demand for rented accommodation in the area is very high and those with the funds to invest into the Courmayeur Resort should see very high occupancy rates. Property prices are expected to rise by up to 7% over the next year.

France : Puy St Vincent Resort

The Puy St Vincent Resort is often described as skiing's best kept secret with excellent skiing conditions and a break away from the hustle and bustle of many of the larger resorts. The resort is also fairly unique in that it has no connections with neighbouring ski slopes but still manages to attract a great deal of attention. The skiing related property market in the area is very much in its early days with many new builds available and many more planned. For those property investors looking to the future, the Puy St Vincent Resort offers something a little different with great potential

Conclusion

If you are looking at ski related property investments it is vital that you look towards established affordable resorts and also those up and coming areas where the risk reward ratio is a little higher. Visitor numbers are vital, as are the services in the area – something which you should consider before buying a property.