Mountain tourism: accommodations maintain their popularity despite fluctuating snow conditions

IN BRIEF

  • Mountain accommodations still popular even without snow.
  • The figures for tourism in the resorts remain encouraging.
  • Occupancy rate of furnished rentals reached an average of 57.8% in 2023.
  • Occupancy performance exceeds 80% in the high season.
  • Artificial snow compensates for random natural snowfall.
  • The resorts attract many vacationers every winter.
  • France ranks 2nd in the world for skier days.

Mountain tourism, long reliant on reliable snow conditions, now faces a significant challenge: snowfall fluctuations. However, mountain accommodations continue to attract a large number of visitors, whether they are ski enthusiasts or nature lovers. This article explores why furnished rentals in the resorts remain popular, even in the absence of snow.

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The Appeal of Mountain Resorts #

Mountain resorts are not just places reserved for skiers. They offer a multitude of summer and winter activities that appeal to a wide range of vacationers. When snow is scarce, visitors gather around other attractions, ranging from snowshoeing to breathtaking panoramas, to see enchanting landscapes as the seasons change. The Alpine, Pyrenean resorts, as well as those in the Vosges and Jura, become must-visit destinations for disconnecting and enjoying nature.

A Remarkable Occupancy Rate #

Despite unpredictable snow conditions, the occupancy rate of tourist accommodations in the mountains remains high. In recent seasons, it averaged 57.8%, with peaks of 87% in certain regions, such as the Northern Alps during the winter holidays. These figures reflect the ongoing enthusiasm of vacationers for stays in the mountains, where the appeal of the natural environment often compensates for the absence of snow.

Solutions to Unpredictable Snowfall #

To cope with the scarcity of natural snow, resorts are increasingly investing in artificial snow. Thanks to these innovations, ski areas manage to maintain an enjoyable offering for sliding enthusiasts, even in adverse weather conditions. This strengthening of artificial snow production infrastructure also ensures a variety of activities, even when snowfall conditions are not ideal.

Other Advantages of Mountain Accommodations #

Beyond skiing, mountain furnished rentals offer a multitude of advantages. Vacationers also come for the fresh air quality, stunning landscapes, and the authenticity of the villages. Establishments also adapt by offering thematic stays, such as wellness weekends, yoga retreats, or culinary discoveries, thus attracting a diverse clientele beyond winter sports enthusiasts.

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A Sustainable Trend #

Sustainability is becoming a fundamental goal in the mountain tourism sector. Initiatives aimed at promoting responsible and environmentally friendly tourism are flourishing. This creates an environment where accommodation is not just a simple stopover, but embodies an authentic experience that respects nature. Vacationers are increasingly sensitive to these issues, which enhances the appeal of mountain resorts.

New Horizons #

Fluctuating snowfall conditions are also prompting resorts to reinvent themselves. Many resorts are incorporating summer activities such as mountain biking, climbing, and even cultural festivals, thus offering an alternative to winter sports. They are transforming into real recreation areas year-round, maintaining a steady flow of visitors.

In this context, mountain tourism continues to prove its resilience. Despite uncertainties related to snowfall, mountain accommodations are thriving, confirming their essential role in the French tourism industry.