In news that may encourage those thinking of buying French property in ski areas, it has been reported that the mountain areas of the country have been seeing a very healthy start to the season.

High levels of snow have helped contribute to a much busier than expected Christmas and New Year periods, according to market analyst firm Protourisme.

Over this period the Alps, Pyrenees and other ski locations saw accommodation over 75 per cent full.

Describing the start to the season as "excellent", Protourisme’s manager Didier Arino observed: "The economic crisis is helping French vacation spots. The French are not going abroad as much."

Such a situation could encourage investors in French property in these locations, as there could be more demand for rental property in wintersports areas.

Last week Shelter Offshore advised that to get a good bargain investors could find a property needing renovation near a ski resort at a low price and refurbish it.

Visit Rightmove Overseas for the best selection of French property. Stop dreaming, start searching!