Skiing is one of the world’s most popular winter sports, blending adrenaline-inducing speeds with the unmatched beauty and splendor of snow-capped mountains and frosted fir forests. Ski chalets are a popular must-have among high earners, with the price of ski chalets in resorts rising by 4.4% on average from June 2022 to the same time in 2023. According to Knight Frank Ski Property Report 2024, this increase is the market’s strongest growth rate since 2014, not counting the pandemic years.

If you’re interested in investing in your very own luxury ski chalet, here are some must-have amenities to keep in mind for you and your guests:

Ski-In, Ski-Out

The pinnacle of convenience, ski-in, ski-out properties are in high demand among luxury homeowners. Not only do they offer unmatched access to the sport you love by eliminating the need for time-consuming activities like packing, preparing and transporting everyone to the slope, but they also offer greater flexibility for skiers of different skill levels and varying activity thresholds. It's easy for one person to head back to the ski-in, ski-out chalet while others continue to enjoy the snow without worrying about meeting up at the end of the day.

When considering investing in a ski-in, ski-out property, take the following into account:

  • High demand – If your dream property is for sale near a resort, come prepared for competition among potential owners and renters.
  • Higher costs – Depending on the property location and amenities offered, such as a private ski lift, your chalet property will likely have higher ownership costs than your other vacation properties. Additionally, winter weather can be harsh, necessitating repairs and regular upkeep that may come with significant costs.
  • Natural disasters – Is the area prone to natural disasters like wildfires, avalanches, flash floods and mudslides? All of these incidents, which are becoming increasingly common due to the ongoing effects of climate change, can significantly damage your property and harm your investment.
  • Investment opportunities – As stated earlier, these properties are in high demand. Renting your private ski chalet for a portion of the season — or even the warmer months if you’re in an attractive area for activities like hiking or fishing — can net you a robust return on your investment.

Heated Amenities

Who wants to waste time shoveling driveways and walkways when there’s fresh powder on the runs? Heated driveways, walkways and garages will make it so guests don’t have to worry about ice-induced slips, trips and falls.

Additionally, heating your garage or another space as a designated ski room means your gloves, jackets and snow pants will be nice and warm before you set out for the day. If you’re considering installing a heated ski room in your chalet, remember to include drainage for snowmelt you might track indoors and storage options to keep your gear organized.

Spa Time

Unwind after a long day of skiing or socializing in town with a dip in your personal spa. Hot tubs, steam rooms and even ice baths are great amenities that can help you and your guests feel their best. Placing a hot tub on an outdoor deck or observation platform can garner amazing nighttime views of the stars, but it can also run the risk of people being exposed to the elements like wind and snow. Choose the location of these amenities wisely, consulting your risk advisor to ensure your liability exposures are addressed.

Après-Ski Delights

A post-ski drink can be perfect, some may say essential, for unwinding after a long day on the slopes. Après-ski culture varies wildly based on country and region, according to Afar, so pick your favorite experience to emulate in your ski chalet. Whether your taste leans toward oversized beers, hot toddies, crystal glasses of bubbling champagne or memorable craft beverages, be sure to include something for everyone. Smaller guests, such as children and underage family members, can enjoy the novelty of a do-it-yourself fondue and hot cocoa bar. And, health-conscious guests can indulge in a restorative vitamin-packed smoothie.

Bunk Rooms

Much like a warm hearth on a blustery day, your ski chalet can become the place for friends and family to escape long, dull winter days and make lasting memories. While it’s a given that you’ll have space for loved ones, what will you do if your grandchildren invite some friends along for winter break?

Bunk rooms, no longer the drafty things of Dickensian dramas, offer a potential solution. Capable of accommodating multiple generations at a time, bunk rooms can feature a mix of built-ins and lofted spaces that make efficient use of square footage yet feel spacious. When designing a bunk room, remember to include plenty of plugs for your guests’ myriad electronic devices and storage options for their personal belongings.

Managing Liability at Your Ski Chalet

While the occasional stumble or fall at your ski chalet aren't likely to result in severe injuries, it’s better not to chance it. If someone gets injured on your property, they might attempt to sue you to recoup their losses. Therefore, it’s essential to have protections in place to safeguard your finances and the future of your chalet.

Your home insurance policy includes personal liability coverage that can help pay for medical costs or legal fees arising from an injury on your property. While a standard policy limit can protect average homeowners in the event of a slip, trip or fall, your ski chalet will likely have additional amenities — and exposures — that make a comprehensive liability policy necessary.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, some skiers purchase personal umbrella liability insurance to help mitigate the financial impact of the specific risk exposures that come with skiing and snowboarding. These policies cover liability typically excluded by homeowners insurance and safeguard policyholders against hefty payouts, as homeowners insurance is often limited to $300,000.

Various factors will impact the cost and limits of such a liability policy, including any location-based risks, such as wildfires, the type of property, proximity to emergency services and any amenities you’ve added to the location. Consulting your Gallagher personal risk advisor can ensure you not only understand your location-specific risks but also have the insurance coverages you’ll need to ensure you can enjoy your luxury chalet worry-free.