Les Arcs

Les Arcs is located in the Tarentaise Valley of the French Alps. It forms part of the Paradiski ski domain, one of the largest interconnected ski areas in the world. 

Les Arcs is composed of four purpose-built villages, each situated at different altitudes and offering its own unique atmosphere and amenities. The history of Les Arcs dates back to the late 1960s when French architect Charlotte Perriand collaborated with visionary ski lift engineer Roger Godino to create a modern, avant-garde ski resort. 

The villages of Les Arcs were designed with functionality and convenience in mind, featuring high-rise apartment buildings that offer ski-in/ski-out access and minimize walking distances to the slopes. This purpose-built approach has made Les Arcs a popular choice for skiers seeking a seamless skiing experience. This does also mean however that the vast majority of accomodation is self-catering.

The easiest way up is via the Funicular train, taking 7 minutes from the town of Bourg Saint Maurice, connecting directly to the train station. The funicular takes you to Arc 1600, from which you can take one of the shuttle buses to the other resorts. 

There are 2 other access points, Villaroger and Peisey, both great alternatives to stay in too if you prefer a more traditional arcitecture and ambience. Peisey sits at the botton of an adjacent valley and is a great backdoor resort from which to access both Les Arcs and La Plagne - sitting in the valley between the two, over which the Vanoise Express cable car, a double decker modern engineering marvel, travels. From there you can quickly access both sides of Paradiski, whilst enjoying the charm of a more traditional alpine village. 

Peisey is connected to the higher village of Vallandry - part of the Les Arcs collection, by an open air standing cage cable car, from there you can get the Vanoise Express or take a chair up to the Les Arcs ski area. 

For Peisey-Vallandry you take a shuttle bus a short distance from the town of Ladry, where you have train connections. 

Villaroger is a tranquil and picturesque village, offering a more relaxed and traditional atmosphere compared to the larger resorts in the Les Arcs area. It features traditional Alpine architecture with wooden chalets and stunning mountain views, creating a cozy and authentic ambiance for visitors. The village is linked to the resort through the Villaroger-Ecudets chairlift, which provides easy access to the vast network of slopes that Les Arcs has to offer at Arc 2000. 

Les Arcs caters to skiers of all levels, but it is particularly well-suited for intermediate skiers. The ski area offers an extensive network of slopes, with a good balance of Blue and Red across the area. Beginners will also find dedicated learning areas and gentle slopes to practice their skills in 1600, 1800 and Vallandry. 

Like a challenge? head up to the Arc 2000 area. 

Arc 1600

Arc 1600 is the original village of Les Arcs and is situated at an altitude of 1,600 meters. It is known for its family-friendly environment and relaxed atmosphere. The village features ski-in/ski-out accommodations, making it convenient for accessing the slopes. Arc 1600 offers a good selection of restaurants, shops, and amenities, including ski schools and childcare facilities. While it may not have the bustling nightlife of some of the larger villages, it provides a quieter and more intimate setting for visitors. 

Arc 1800

Arc 1800 is the largest and liveliest village in the Les Arcs ski area. It is divided into four smaller neighborhoods: Charvet, Chantel, Villards, and Charmettoger. 

Arc 1800 offers a vibrant après-ski scene with a wide range of bars, restaurants, and entertainment options. The village has a bustling atmosphere and is popular among young adults and those looking for a lively social scene. It also offers a variety of accommodation choices, from budget-friendly options to upscale hotels and apartments. 

Arc 2000

Arc 2000 is the highest village in Les Arcs, located at an altitude of 2,000 meters. It is known for its excellent snow conditions and convenient ski-in/ski-out access. Arc 2000 offers a modern and functional village layout with a range of accommodations, including luxury hotels and self-catered apartments. While it may not have the same bustling atmosphere as Arc 1800, it provides a quieter setting and focuses more on the skiing experience. 

Vallandry is a smaller village located in the Les Arcs ski area, situated at an altitude of 1,600 meters. It is known for its picturesque and authentic Savoyard charm. 

Vallandry offers a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere compared to the larger.

In conclusion, Les Arcs is a purpose-built ski resort with a rich history and excellent connections to the expansive Paradiski ski domain. With its ski-in/ski-out accommodations, ski-back-to-town options, and vibrant après-ski scene, Les Arcs is a popular choice for skiers of different levels and preferences. Whether you seek thrilling slopes, family-friendly amenities, or a lively nightlife, Les Arcs has something to offer for everyone.