 The Rhone Alps are to be found in Eastern France. They take in the French Alps that border Switzerland and Italy, as well as the upper and middle sections of the Rhone Valley. The land here is without doubt the most varied in all of France. High mountain peaks and snow-filled valleys descend to sun-kissed plains and gentle rolling hills with a smattering of vineyards and sleepy French villages in-between. All types of French property can be found in this region - from ski chalets and apartments in some of the best known ski resorts in the world to run-down farmhouses and barns overlooking the Rhone. In short, the Rhone Alps has something for everyone.
Eight French departments make up the Rhone Alps - Ain, Rhone, Haute Savoie, Savoie, Haute Alpes, Isere, Ardeche and Drome. Haute Savoie, Savoie and the Haute Alpes are the easternmost departments through which the French Alps traverse. By winter these areas are a hive of activity with snow-lovers from all over the world descending upon the many world class skiing resorts here, including the likes of Val D'Isere, Megeve, Courchevel and Chamonix. During the summer, when the snows recede to the highest peaks, walkers, climbers and cyclists keep the tourist population high, making these departments attractive to those who are looking for buy-to-let French property.
Buying Rhone Alps property in the major ski resorts - or for that matter, close to any of the alpine pistes - will require substantial investment. A 3-bed apartment in the heart of Val D'Isere with direct access to the slopes costs around 1,200,000 euros. On the 'plus' side though, you are virtually guaranteed rentals through the winter season, as well as good interest from short-term tenants during the summer too.
For less expensive ski property, take a look at locations that are a short drive away from the slopes. A 3-bed villa in France 5 minutes from Albertville - hosts of the 1992 Winter Olympics - can be yours for less than 400,000 euros...a big saving when compared to Rhone Alps property in the prestige resorts.
But, if the snow and cold weather does not appeal then look West!
The western side of the Rhone Alps could not be more different. Gentle rolling hills, pretty villages and warm sunshine await discovery in this land of grapevines and fine patisseries. Many people are introduced to the Rhone Valley through its most famous of exports - wine. Côtes-du-Rhône and Beaujolais originate here on the hillsides above Lyon.
Further to the south, some exquisite towns can be found, including the lively town of Valence and the ever-colourful Montelimar. Recent French property available for sale in the countryside close to Montelimar have included a 12th century chateau set in 14 hectares of land for less than 1,000,000 euros and a 4-bed villa with a gite for 220,000 euros.
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