How to prepare your chalet for the winter season
The winter peak season typically accounts for 70–80 % of a mountain property's annual revenue. Thorough preparation in September–October makes the difference between a smooth season and a series of unpleasant surprises.
The technical checklist: what you can't afford to overlook
Heating, plumbing, electrics: these three areas account for 90 % of emergency call-outs during peak season. Have the boiler or heat pump serviced in October, check all pipes exposed to frost, test every smoke and CO detector. If the property has a hot tub or sauna, have the filtration and heating systems inspected. A technical failure during a guest's stay in peak season costs three times more to fix than off-season.
Linen and furniture inventory: build your stock
A hotel standard requires quality linen in sufficient quantity for at least two complete turnovers without a laundry run. Allow a minimum of two sets of sheets per bed, four towels per guest, and a full set of table linen. Check each item and replace anything worn. A guest who finds a stain on a pillow will leave a 4-star review instead of 5 — which directly impacts your rate.
Listing and pricing: set your calendar early
Christmas, New Year and February half-term weeks are often booked as early as September–October for the best properties. If your listing isn't updated — winter photos, seasonal description, peak-season rates — you'll miss the most profitable bookings of the year. Set your base rates, minimum prices for key weeks and cancellation policies. Our dynamic pricing tool then handles daily adjustments.
Welcome and guest experience: the small details that matter
A welcome basket (basic groceries, hot drinks, local chocolate) leaves a lasting impression. A clear house guide — wifi, equipment, emergency contacts, restaurant recommendations — reduces in-stay messages. A clean ski storage area, coat hooks at the entrance, guest slippers: these thoughtful touches distinguish a hotel-standard property from a basic apartment and justify rates 20–30 % higher.
Let SmartStay prepare your chalet for the season →