Les Arcs - Resort description & ski information

Things are looking up for Les Arcs. To complement its fantastic views and almost guaranteed snow, the resort now boasts a swanky new village in the form of Arc 1950. It also has the Vanoise Express, a new lift link with neighbouring La Plagne. Together with Peisey-Vallandry, these three resorts make up the Paradiski area, one of the largest snow-sure ski areas in the world. Les Arcs comprises four resorts perched above the village of Bourg St. Maurice; Arc 1600, 1800, 1950 and 2000, but no matter which car-free base you choose, access to a huge range of skiing is guaranteed. This is one of the most exciting resorts around for families and serious skiers alike, though don't expect too much partying after dark - everyone is just too worn out.

Skiing in Les Arcs

Les Arcs has a total of 200km of pistes, and offers great skiing to intermediates with plenty of interesting blues and reds. Advanced skiers will find some challenging off-piste and excellent blacks on the Aiguille Rouge which peaks at 3226m, whilst those looking for even more of a challenge could try the truly terrifying ‘Flying Kilometre' which hurtles down the mountain's side at a 70 degree angle. Beginners are best served at Arc 2000 where runs are at their least steep, and children can find their feet in a play area at Arc 1800, and on the nursery slopes around each village. Finally, snowboarders fresh or experienced will find an excellent snow park here with half pipe and boarder cross. See our page on La Plagne for more information on the Paradiski area.

The resort

Arc 1800 is the busiest of the villages here, with a decent selection of bars and restaurants and a nightclub. Meanwhile, the rest of Les Arcs is pretty sedate when it comes to nightlife. Après-ski activities include snowshoeing, paragliding, swimming, ice-skating and cinema going, and almost all of these are geared up for kids as well. If you have any energy left there is night skiing at most levels on different days, and a free shuttle runs between all the resorts.