The Paradox of Megève: How the Chic Resort Intends to Survive Climate Change
The ski resort of Megève in the French Alps is adapting to climate change while continuing to attract tourists and investors.
Megève, a luxury ski resort in the French Alps, is grappling with the challenges posed by climate change while still managing to draw significant interest from tourists and investors. With its elevation at just 1,113 meters, Megève is not among the highest ski destinations, yet it has consistently found ways to innovate and elevate its appeal. For the winter season of 2026, the resort is set to unveil a new five-star hotel, Le Saint-Georges, alongside a complete renovation of the Lodge Park, reinforcing its reputation as a premier destination.
The affluent resort is significantly investing in improvements and enhancements to maintain its status within the competitive tourism market, despite the adverse effects of global warming. Megève is seeing enormous new chalets being constructed, indicating a robust investment climate. The local economy relies heavily on tourism, and the continuous influx of new establishments showcases the efforts to adapt to changing environmental conditions while also catering to an upscale clientele that seeks luxury experiences.
As the ski industry faces diminishing snowfall and shorter seasons due to climate change, Megève's approach reflects a broader trend among many ski resorts looking to sustain their viability. The commitment to adapting operations and attracting high-end investments speaks to the resilience of the resort and its determination to maintain its allure amid challenging environmental circumstances. Megève's ongoing investments and innovative strategies could serve as a model for other resorts grappling with similar issues in a warming world.