Investors rush to snap up luxury units in this season’s only new build development in Meribel

The second home destination of choice by Harry Potter star, Emma Watson and future host of one the Alpine ski calendar’s highlights – the World Cup finals 2014/15, property in Meribel, situated in the middle of Les Trois Vallées, is in high demand as investors rush to snap up luxury units in the only new build development, Les Balcons de la Chapelle, this season.

Heralded as one of the best ski resorts in France by the Daily Telegraph, Meribel, founded by Brit Peter Lindsay in 1983, remains one of the most popular destinations with British ski enthusiasts attracted by the easy access to numerous ski runs within Les Trois Vallées,, impressive lift system and lively après-ski scene.

And now it will be even easier to reach this must-visit ski resort this winter with tickets now on sale for the Eurostar direct ski train which will run from St Pancras, London or Ashford International in Kent straight to Moutiers only 25 minutes from Meribel. Commencing 17th December, trains will run twice at weekends with an overnight service on Friday evenings; return fares available from £149. For those living in the north of the UK, new flights operated this season by low-cost airline, Jet2.com from Edinburgh to Chambery, the gateway to the French Alps and only 80 minutes from Meribel, will also be welcome.

Ski enthusiast, Francophile and Business Development Manager of Terresens, France’s leading eco friendly property developer responsible for Les Balcons de la Chapelle in Meribel, Charlie Williams comments,

“Having been fortunate enough to visit many of the ski resorts in the French Alps, I truly believe that Meribel stands out from the rest. Offering the complete package both on and off the piste, it is clear to see why this Alpine gem holds such great appeal to Brits with visitor numbers continuing to rise and demand for accommodation robust.”

Indeed enquiries for property in the Rhone Alpes in which Meribel is situated has accounted for 20% of all French property requests made to international property portal TheMoveChannel.com so far in 2011 and the winter season has not even begun yet! Ranked one of the 50 most expensive locations for residential property in the world by the Knight Frank Prime Residential Index (2010), property prices reflect the desirability of Meribel with an average of €10,000 per square meter.

Land suitable for construction is at a premium with Les Balcons de la Chapelle the only new build development in the resort this season. The limited number of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments and chalets of Les Balcons de la Chapelle occupy a prime location in the heart of Meribel, just a short walk from the ski lifts, shops and restaurants. Available fully furnished to your specification, these luxurious residences afford stunning views over the valley and la Chapelle Notre Dame.

With prices starting at €720,000 these exceptional residences will appeal to discerning buyers, some of whom may be able to take advantage of Sarkozy’s planned overhaul of France’s wealth tax system next year which sees the threshold at which wealth tax is paid by residents increase from €800,000 to €1.3 million.

To find out more about Les Balcons de la Chapelle in Meribel, contact the developer Terresens on + 44 (0) 203 101 110 or visit www.terresensleaseback.com.