Les Arcs is a premier high-altitude ski resort in the Tarentaise Valley of the French Alps, comprising five distinct villages: Bourg-Saint-Maurice, Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950, and Arc 2000. Renowned for its avant-garde architecture and varied terrain, the resort is a core part of the Paradiski area, which offers over 425 kilometers of interconnected slopes. Visitors choose Les Arcs for its snow-sure peaks—reaching up to 3,226 meters at the Aiguille Rouge—and its unique accessibility, being one of the few major resorts directly linked to a TGV train station via a seven-minute funicular.
In this comprehensive guide, you will discover the specific character of each altitude village, the best slopes for your ability level, and essential logistics for planning a trip in 2026. We cover everything from the legendary Vanoise Express cable car to the summer mountain biking trails that transform the resort into an outdoor playground during the warmer months.
The Five Distinct Altitude Villages
Les Arcs is unique because it is not a single town but a collection of purpose-built stations situated at varying elevations. Bourg-Saint-Maurice (810m) serves as the valley hub, while Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950, and Arc 2000 offer specialized experiences ranging from family-friendly quietude to high-octane après-ski.
Arc 1600: The Quiet Original
Arc 1600 was the first village established in the 1960s and remains the most architecturally significant, featuring the sloping rooflines designed by Charlotte Perriand. It is the direct terminus for the funicular from the valley, making it the most accessible base for those arriving by train.
Arc 1800: The Lively Hub
As the largest and most central village, Arc 1800 is the heartbeat of the resort’s nightlife and shopping. It is split into four pedestrianized sectors—Charvet, Villards, Charmettoger, and Chantel—and hosts the famous Mille8 aquatic and activity center.
Arc 1950: The Luxury Village
Built in the early 2000s, Arc 1950 is a 5-star, “fairytale” pedestrian village with high-end residences, heated outdoor pools, and premium boutiques. Every building here offers direct ski-in/ski-out access, and the village often hosts family-friendly festivals and parades.
Arc 2000: High Altitude Adventure
Perched at the highest elevation, Arc 2000 provides the fastest access to the Aiguille Rouge glacier and some of the most challenging terrain in the Alps. It is favored by serious skiers and freeriders who prioritize snow quality and early-morning “first tracks” over late-night partying.
Paradiski: One of the World’s Largest Ski Areas
Les Arcs is linked to the neighboring resort of La Plagne by the Vanoise Express, the world’s largest double-decker cable car. This connection creates the Paradiski domain, spanning 425km of runs, 141 lifts, and two glaciers, ensuring diverse skiing for every skill level.
The Vanoise Express crosses the Ponthurin valley at a height of 380 meters, moving up to 200 people per cabin in just under four minutes. This link allows skiers to start their morning on the Aiguille Rouge in Les Arcs and spend their afternoon exploring the Bellecôte glacier in La Plagne.
Terrain Guide for All Levels
The resort’s topography is incredibly diverse, transitioning from high-alpine glaciers to sheltered forest runs. Whether you are a first-time skier or a seasoned off-piste enthusiast, Les Arcs provides dedicated zones tailored to your technical needs.
- Beginners: Head to the Mille8 area in Arc 1800 or the dedicated “Ski Tranquille” zones which feature gentle gradients and magic carpet lifts.
- Intermediates: The long, wide blue and red runs above Peisey-Vallandry are perfect for carving and offer some of the best views of Mont Blanc.
- Experts: The Aiguille Rouge run is a legendary 7km descent with a 2,000m vertical drop, taking you from the glacier all the way down to the village of Villaroger.
- Freeriders: The Grand Col and the forest glades above Arc 1600 offer world-class off-piste opportunities, though a local guide is highly recommended for safety.
Architecture and Design Heritage
Les Arcs is a designated “20th Century Heritage” site, recognized for its innovative integration into the mountain landscape. Under the guidance of architect and designer Charlotte Perriand, the resort pioneered the “integrated resort” concept, where buildings follow the natural contours of the slope.
The architecture emphasizes large windows to maximize sunlight and balconies that do not overlook one another, providing privacy even in dense apartment complexes. This modernist approach was radical for its time and remains a point of study for architects worldwide today.
Summer Activities and MTB
When the snow melts, Les Arcs transforms into one of Europe’s premier mountain biking (MTB) destinations. The Hero Pass provides access to over 149 kilometers of marked trails, including world-class downhill tracks and cross-country loops.
Beyond biking, the summer season offers paragliding, white-water rafting on the Isère River, and high-altitude hiking through the Vanoise National Park. The funicular remains operational during the summer, allowing hikers to easily reach the alpine meadows from the valley floor.
Practical Information and Planning
To make the most of your 2025-2026 trip, follow these essential logistical tips for travel, pricing, and timing.
Getting There (Transport)
- By Train: Take the Eurostar Snow or TGV to Bourg-Saint-Maurice. From the station, follow the overhead walkway to the funicular, which whisk you to Arc 1600 in 7 minutes.
- By Air: The closest airports are Chambéry (1.5 hours), Geneva (2.5 hours), and Lyon (2.5 hours). Regular shuttle buses connect these airports to the resort villages.
Lift Pass Prices (2025/26 Season)
- Adult Day Pass: Approximately €74.
- Adult 6-Day Pass: Approximately €389.
- Family Pack: Discounts are available for groups of 4 or more (2 adults + 2 children) when purchasing identical passes.
Tips for Visitors
- Free Shuttles: Frequent free shuttle buses connect all the altitude villages, so you don’t need a car once you arrive.
- Booking: For February half-term or Christmas weeks, book your accommodation and ski school at least 6-9 months in advance.
- Mobile App: Download the YUGE app to track your vertical meters, check lift wait times, and find your friends on the mountain.
Les Arcs Overview
Les Arcs spans altitudes from 1,200 to 3,226 meters, connecting seamlessly via the world’s largest cable car system at the time of its launch. This setup creates one of Europe’s biggest ski domains, with 425 kilometers of groomed pistes, 200 lifts, and endless off-piste opportunities in Paradiski. The resort’s avant-garde design integrates buildings into the mountainside for ski-in/ski-out convenience.
Four distinct villages define Les Arcs, each with unique vibes: Arc 1600 offers a forested, family-friendly base; Arc 1800 provides lively intermediate terrain; Arc 1950 blends modern luxury with traditional Alpine charm; Arc 2000 delivers high-altitude thrills near the Aiguille Rouge cable car. Snow reliability shines with 180 annual sunny days and extensive snowmaking covering 35% of slopes. Beyond skiing, expect mountain biking trails, golf courses, and lakes in summer.
This structure makes Les Arcs ideal for multi-generational trips, with something for novices on green runs and pros tackling the Vallon de L’Arbi black. Pioneered in the 1960s by Robert Blanc, it revolutionized resort planning by prioritizing slope access over car dependency.
History and Development
Les Arcs opened in 1968 with Arc 1600 as its first village, innovating with purpose-built accommodations amid Swiss stone pine forests. Founders Robert Blanc and Roger Godino envisioned a “mega-resort” model, expanding to three more villages by 1979, linked by efficient lifts. This foresight birthed Europe’s snowboarding scene in the 1980s and set architectural standards labeled 20th-century heritage.
Rapid growth included the Vanoise Express cable car in 2003, merging Les Arcs with La Plagne for Paradiski’s vast domain. Milestones feature the Aiguille Rouge gondola, once the world’s largest, ascending 900 meters in 17 minutes to 3,226 meters. Today, under Compagnie des Alpes ownership, it balances preservation with upgrades like eco-friendly snow cannons.
The resort’s evolution reflects French Alpine innovation, from concrete brutalism in early villages to Arc 1950’s stone-clad luxury mimicking historic hamlets. This heritage attracts architecture buffs alongside skiers, with guided tours highlighting icons like Charlotte Perriand’s ski-lift designs.
Villages Breakdown
Arc 1600 nestles in ancient forests at 1,600 meters, ideal for families with its quiet charm, pedestrian-friendly layout, and access to beginner areas. Arc 1800, one step up, buzzes with energy, boasting wide blue runs, a waterpark, and budget lodgings steps from lifts. Arc 1950 elevates luxury at 1,950 meters, featuring five-star hotels like Majestic and Mai Lodge, fine dining, and a cinematic village square.
Arc 2000 perches highest at 2,000 meters, gateway to expert terrain via Cachette chairlift, with compact ski-in/ski-out apartments and panoramic views. Inter-village travel takes 10-20 minutes by free buses or gondolas, ensuring flexibility without a car. Each village hosts unique events: Arc 1600’s forest walks, Arc 1800’s freestyle parks, Arc 1950’s spas, Arc 2000’s freeride zones.
Choosing depends on priorities—families favor Arc 1600’s calm, party-goers Arc 1800’s vibe, upscale seekers Arc 1950, powder hounds Arc 2000. All share Paradiski access, but village-specific perks like Arc 1950’s private cinema set them apart.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Les Arcs boasts 200 kilometers of pistes in its core area, expanding to 425 in Paradiski via Vanoise Express. Pistes split as 11% beginner green, 47% easy blue, 35% red, 7% black, with icons like Aiguille Rouge’s 16km descent and Transarc itinerary. Snowboarders love Prey, Europe’s first pipe opened in 1983, plus jumps and rails in multiple parks.
Snowmaking blankets 200km of runs, ensuring coverage from December to April, with natural snowfall averaging 5-6 meters seasonally. Freeride itineraries like Rognes demand guides for 1,000m vertical drops amid glaciers. Night skiing lights 8km of slopes Wednesdays and Fridays in peak season.
Progressive terrain builds skills: greens around Arc 1600, blues from 1800, reds linking villages, blacks off Aiguille Rouge. Paradiski unlocks La Plagne’s variety, with 425km total and 4 glacier areas. Lessons from ESF instructors cater to all ages, starting at €50/hour.
Summer Activities
Summer transforms Les Arcs into a hiking and biking haven with 250km of trails from easy forest paths to via ferrata routes. The 10km luge run at Arc 1600 thrills at 40km/h speeds, operating June-September. Golfers tee off on Arc 1800’s 18-hole course amid 3,000m peaks.
Mountain lifts open for panoramic hikes to Col de la Loze or Lac du Bourget swims. E-bikes rent for €40/day to tackle 700km of MTB trails, including enduro descents. Families enjoy treetop adventures, donkey rides, and stargazing at Arc 1950’s observatory.
Events like Trail des Arcs races draw 1,000 runners annually. Fishing in Plan d’Eau lake and paragliding tandem flights (€100) add variety. Sustainability shines with zero-waste initiatives and electric shuttles.
Family-Friendly Features
Les Arcs excels for kids with Piou-Piou clubs from age 3 at €20/half-day, offering ski lessons in enclosed gardens. Arc 1600’s gentle slopes and forest playgrounds minimize intimidation. Baby clubs handle infants from 3 months, including naps and crafts.
Teen zones feature snowparks, tubing, and night sledding. Family passes save 20% for groups of 4+. Arc 1950’s indoor pool and bowling keep rainy days fun. Special needs accommodations include adapted lessons and equipment rentals.
Over 50 restaurants offer kids’ menus under €15, with highchairs ubiquitous. Free crèche transport between villages eases logistics. Multi-gen trips thrive on mixed-ability terrain and evening animations like petting zoos.
Après-Ski and Nightlife
Arc 1800 pulses with après at Le Tabasco, where live bands pack the terrace until 2am. Arc 1950’s Folie Douce hosts DJ sets and champagne showers from 4pm. Chill options include Arc 1600’s cozy fireplaces at La Plage bar.
Nightlife peaks in Arc 2000’s igloo parties and Le Basecamp club. Over 100 bars range from sports screens to live music. Non-drinkers enjoy cinema nights and quizzes. Peak season sees 5,000 visitors dancing weekly.
Local brews like Paradiski Blonde pair with raclette. Safety focuses on marked paths post-dark. Après evolves to live podcasts and yoga raves in recent years.
Accommodation Options
Budget hostels in Arc 1800 start at €80/night half-board, while self-catered studios suit groups. Mid-range hotels like Cachette in Arc 2000 offer pools for €150-250. Luxury peaks at Arc 1950’s Almancil Lodge with Michelin dining at €400+.
Chalets for 8-10 sleepers rent €2,000-5,000/week, many ski-in/out. Apartments dominate, with 30,000 beds across resorts. Book via Les Arcs Tourisme for deals; early reservations save 15%.
Amenities vary: spas in premium spots, kitchens everywhere. Pet-friendly options abound. Sustainability-certified stays like eco-chalets rise in popularity.
Dining and Gastronomy
Over 100 eateries span casual creperies to gourmet spots. Arc 1950’s L’Ekrin holds Michelin stars, serving Savoyard beef at €120/tasting menu. Budget raclette at Arc 1800’s Le Chocolat costs €25.
Farm-to-table emphasizes local Reblochon cheese and Diots sausages. Vegan options grow, with Arc 2000’s plant-based bowls. Après snacks like hot chocolate croissants fuel runs. Markets in Bourg-Saint-Maurice offer fresh produce Tuesdays. Wine cellars showcase Savoie AOCs. Picnics on piste-end benches save money.
Practical Information and Planning
Opening hours run December to April for winter, June-September for summer lifts. Ski day lifts operate 9am-5pm; night skiing Wednesdays/Fridays 4-8pm.
Prices: Adult Paradiski pass €65/day, €320/6-day; child €52/day. Accommodation €100-400/night. Lessons €50/hour. Rentals €30/day skis.
Reach Les Arcs via Geneva Airport (3 hours, €100 shuttle) or Lyon (2.5 hours). Train to Bourg-Saint-Maurice (3 hours from Paris), then free Altibus to villages. Driving via A43 tolls €50 from Geneva. Expect queue-free mornings, sunny slopes, multilingual signs. Crowds peak February half-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Les Arcs good for beginners?
Yes, Les Arcs has several dedicated “Ski Tranquille” zones and nursery slopes at each altitude. Arc 1800 is particularly well-suited for beginners due to the Mille8 complex.
When is the best time to visit Les Arcs?
For the best snow conditions, visit between late January and March. For sunshine and longer days, April offers excellent spring skiing, especially in high-altitude Arc 2000.
Can I ski to La Plagne from Les Arcs?
Yes, you can cross the valley via the Vanoise Express cable car. You will need a Paradiski lift pass to access the slopes on the La Plagne side.
Is Les Arcs expensive?
While Arc 1950 is premium, Arc 1600 and 1800 offer a wide range of budget-friendly self-catering apartments. Buying groceries in the valley at Bourg-Saint-Maurice can also save significant costs.
Which village has the best nightlife?
Arc 1800 is the nightlife capital of the resort, featuring the most bars, clubs, and the famous Folie Douce après-ski venue.
Is Les Arcs snow-sure?
With 70% of the ski area above 2,000 meters and two glaciers, Les Arcs is one of the most snow-sure resorts in the French Alps.
Are there non-skiing activities?
Yes, the resort offers snowshoeing, dog sledding, a massive aquatic center (Mille8), bowling, and an igloo village with ice carvings.
What is the Aiguille Rouge?
It is the highest peak in Les Arcs at 3,226m. It features a panoramic viewing platform and a legendary 7km black/red run down to Villaroger.
Final Thoughts
Les Arcs continues to redefine the modern mountain experience by balancing its 1960s architectural heritage with cutting-edge 2026 infrastructure. The completion of the Transarc cable car transformation and the introduction of the high-speed Villaroger gondola have drastically reduced transit times, allowing skiers to maximize their time on the 425km of Paradiski slopes. Whether you are chasing the early morning “first tracks” from Arc 2000 or enjoying the 5-star luxury of Arc 1950, the resort offers a tailored experience for every type of traveler.
As a pioneer in sustainable tourism with its two-star Flocon Vert certification, Les Arcs is setting a global standard for how major ski destinations can reduce their carbon footprint. With 25% of visitors now arriving by train—aided by the seamless funicular link—and a focus on renovating existing structures rather than expanding the urban footprint, the resort ensures that the alpine beauty of the Tarentaise Valley is preserved for future generations.
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