Les Arcs

Discover Les Arcs, an exceptional ski destination in the Alps French, offering a unique experience with its varied slopes suitable for all skill levels. As part of the vast Paradiski ski area—one of the largest in the world—Les Arcs offers more than 400 kilometers of slopes at altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 3,226 meters. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Les Arcs is the perfect destination for your ski vacation.

To discover another ski area, read our article on the Portes du Soleil here.

The resort is easily accessible by train with a funicular from Bourg Saint Maurice, or by car, requiring suitable equipment for snow-covered roads. This article guides you through Les Arcs' assets, from the ski area to the various activities, for a memorable stay in the Alps.

Find out everything there is to know about skiing in France or the ski resorts in France.

Les Arcs resort presentation

History and development

The resort of Les Arcs, nestled in the Tarentaise Valley, emerged in the 1960s as the result of a collaboration between Robert Blanc, a local mountain guide, and Roger Godino, a visionary entrepreneur. Development began with the opening of Arc 1600 in 1968, followed by Arc 1800 in 1974 and Arc 2000 in 1979. The design of these villages was entrusted to a team of architects led by Charlotte Perriand, who infused the resort with a modernist and avant-garde vision.

The project aimed to design an environmentally friendly resort equipped with modern and functional infrastructure. The development of Les Arcs was based on respect for the natural landscape, the preservation of traditional mountain chalets, and the use of local materials.

Available services

Les Arcs offers a wide range of services to ensure a pleasant stay. The resort boasts modern, efficient lifts for easy access to the slopes.

In each village, you’ll find shops, restaurants, bars, and recreation centers offering a variety of activities. The resort also has good public transportation service, including a funicular connecting Bourg-Saint-Maurice to Arc 1600, making it easier for skiers to arrive by train. There is a wide range of accommodations, from modern apartments to traditional chalets, to suit every preference.

Les Arcs: Four resorts, one destination

Les Arcs is made up of four main villages: Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 2000 and Arc 1950, each offering a unique ambience and designed to be self-contained with its own services and facilities. Arc 1950, created in 2003, stands out for its traditional Savoyard architecture, in contrast to the modernism of the other villages.

Les Arcs is a group of interconnected ski resorts offering a diverse experience in the heart of the French Alps. Each of the four resorts (1600, 1800, 1950, and 2000) has its own identity, architecture, and atmosphere, while being part of a shared ski area.

Les Arcs 1600 - The origins

• Background: It is the oldest station, which opened in 1968. Its architecture, heavily inspired by the ideas of Le Corbusier, is characterized by clean lines and buildings that blend into the landscape.
• The atmosphere: Quieter and more authentic, it's ideal for those seeking tranquillity and a return to their roots.
• Benefits : Unique architecture, easy access from Bourg-Saint-Maurice and a family atmosphere.

Les Arcs 1800 - The heart of the resort

• The atmosphere: This is the heart of Les Arcs, with a wide range of shops and entertainment options. There are numerous restaurants, bars, stores, and activities to suit every taste.
• Benefits : A very lively resort, a wide variety of lodging options, and direct access to the slopes.

Les Arcs 1950 – The Charm of the Past

• Architecture: Savoyard style revisited, with wooden chalets and natural materials creating a warm, authentic atmosphere.
• The atmosphere: More intimate than Les Arcs 1800, it offers a blend of tradition and modernity.
• Benefits : A pedestrian village, easy access to the slopes and a friendly atmosphere.

Les Arcs 2000 – Altitude and Prestige

• Altitude: It is the highest resort, offering an exceptional panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
• Architecture: Contemporary architecture, with modern, elegant buildings.
• The atmosphere: More upscale, it appeals to customers looking for comfort and top-of-the-range services.

In a nutshell:

Your choice of resort will depend on your wishes and expectations.

If you're looking for peace and quiet, Les Arcs 1600 is the place for you.

If you prefer entertainment and activities, Les Arcs 1800 is the perfect choice.

If you're looking for a more authentic atmosphere, Les Arcs 1950 is the place for you.

And if you'd like to enjoy a prestigious setting, Les Arcs 2000 is the perfect choice.

Located at altitudes ranging from 1,600 to 2,000 meters, the villages offer spectacular views of the valley and the surrounding peaks. Designed for ski-in/ski-out access, they provide direct access to the slopes, eliminating the need for car transportation.

Les Arcs - The ski area

The tracks

The Les Arcs ski area boasts 128 runs for all levels: 64 blue, 44 red, 3 green and 17 black. These runs are scattered throughout the resort's different villages, offering a unique skiing experience at every location.

Arc 1600, for example, has 15 blue runs, perfect for those who want to move on to red runs, while Arc 1800 offers an enchanting setting with two green runs and 11 blue runs winding through pine forests.

Designed to meet everyone’s needs, the beginner areas are equipped to ensure a safe learning experience, while experienced skiers will find what they’re looking for on more challenging runs, notably the Aiguille Rouge run. At 7 kilometers long, it offers a dizzying descent of 2,026 meters.

Ski lifts

The resort features a network of 54 modern ski lifts, including gondolas, chairlifts, and T-bar lifts, providing quick and easy access to the slopes. These facilities are regularly updated to ensure high-quality service and minimize wait times.

The Varet gondola in Arc 2000 and chairlifts such as Arcabulle and Bois de l’Or are just a few examples of the facilities that make it easier for skiers to get around the ski area.

Paradiski: access to a wider area

Thanks to the Vanoise Express gondola, Les Arcs and La Plagne have been linked since 2003, forming the Paradiski ski area. This vast area offers 425 kilometers of runs, 141 lifts and 260 trails for all levels. Paradiski invites you to enjoy an unlimited skiing experience, with diversified ski options and breathtaking scenery.

Whether you're in Les Arcs, Peisey-Vallandry, or La Plagne, Paradiski opens the door to an exceptional skiing experience.

Les Arcs package 2024-2025

PASS CLASSIQUE 6 days € 348 1 day € 68

Access to Les Arcs, Peisey-Vallandry

PASS ESSENTIEL 6 days €389 1 day €74

Access to Les Arcs, Peisey-Vallandry, La Plagne (Paradiski) + advantages (lift pass on some lifts, 1/2 day free in advance for 6-day pass)

Snow clearing in Les Arcs

Are you planning a ski trip to Les Arcs and have questions about the snow conditions? That's perfectly normal! Snow conditions are a key factor in making the most of your trip to the mountains.

Where can I find information about snow conditions in Les Arcs?

To find out the real-time snow conditions in Les Arcs, I recommend checking the following sources:

• Official Les Arcs website: The resort's official website provides detailed information on snow depth, trail conditions, and lift openings and closings. You'll also find live webcams there to get a feel for the atmosphere.

Here is the direct link to check the snow conditions in Les Arcs: https://www.lesarcs.com/lenneigement

• Mobile applications: Many ski apps offer real-time snow reports, weather forecasts and resort information.
• Trade media: Websites and magazines specializing in winter sports regularly publish articles on snow conditions at various resorts, particularly Les Arcs.

Non-ski activities

3.1 Activities for non-skiers

Les Arcs is a destination that also caters to those who aren’t interested in skiing. A pedestrian pass is available for those who want to take the lifts up and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from the peaks. This option makes it easy to meet up with friends or family for lunch at one of the many mountain huts or to enjoy a hot drink while taking in the vast landscape.

The resort offers a wealth of outdoor activities: snowshoeing, dog-sledding, snowmobile rides, and even tandem paragliding flights. For thrill-seekers, zipline courses—including the breathtaking Aiguille Rouge Zipline—and toboggan runs, including a 3-kilometer descent, promise unforgettable adventures.

For those looking to unwind, Les Arcs offers yoga classes, spa visits, and opportunities to relax at aquatic and fitness centers, such as the Mille8 Aquatic and Fitness Center in Arc 1800. This complex features indoor and outdoor pools, massage jets, and bubble beds for ultimate relaxation.

3.2 Cultural events and activities

Les Arcs also comes alive with a variety of cultural events and activities throughout the winter season. The après-ski scene here is festive, with bars and restaurants offering live music nights and cabaret shows, particularly at La Folie Douce in Arc 1800, renowned for its live performances and lively nights out.

The resort also hosts cultural events, such as exhibitions in the museums venues and movie screenings, enriching the experience for everyone. Activities designed especially for children, such as igloo villages and creative workshops, ensure memorable family moments.

Last but not least, the villages of Les Arcs live to the rhythm of the markets and events gastronomica great opportunity to discover the specialties of the region and meet local artisans. These events contribute greatly to the resort’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, much to the delight of non-skiers.

Conclusion

Les Arcs is an exceptional ski destination, suitable for all skill levels and preferences. Its vast ski area, which spans 425 kilometers of trails within the Paradiski region, promises an unparalleled skiing adventure.

The resort consists of four distinct villages: Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 2000, and Arc 1950, each offering a unique atmosphere and a variety of activities. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert looking for memorable runs, you’ll find slopes that suit your skill level. The efficiency of the modern ski lifts, off-piste entertainment options, and cultural events further enrich your stay.

Don't miss the chance to explore this magnificent Alpine resort. Plan your vacation in Les Arcs today for a memorable skiing experience.

FAQ

When to ski in Les Arcs

The best time to ski in Les Arcs is from January through March, when snow conditions are at their peak and the weather is most favorable. January is ideal for those looking to avoid the crowds, while April is appealing for its longer days and milder weather.

The school vacation periods, such as Christmas, February and Easter, remain very popular with families, despite the greater number of visitors.

How high is the snowfall in Les Arcs?

Les Arcs has an average snowfall of 224 cm, with an annual total of 340 cm spread over 32 days.

What altitude for Les Arcs?

Located in the French Alps, Les Arcs ranges in elevation from 810 to 3,226 meters. The ski villages are situated between 1,600 and 2,000 meters, with ski runs located primarily above 1,200 meters.

When does Les Arcs 1800 open?

Les Arcs 1800 is scheduled to open around December 14, depending on snow conditions.