Les Arcs steps through four purpose-built levels – 1600, 1800, 1950, and 2000 – on a broad mountainside above Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Arc 1950 is a pedestrian village built in 2004 with stone façades and ski-in streets. The Paradiski link to La Plagne crosses the Vanoise Express; tree skiing here often beats exposed Plagne cols in storms.
Mountain culture & milestones
Les Arcs pioneered large-scale concrete resort architecture in the 1960s – Charlotte Perriand influenced early building design. Arc 1950 added a neo-traditional layer in the 2000s.
The resort hosted Albertville 1992 speed events; the Flying Kilometre speed-ski track still operates on selected winter dates.
Valley bases: where to stay
Arc 1800 is the busiest hub with the widest restaurant choice. Arc 1950 suits groups who want pedestrian streets and ski-in lodging.
Arc 2000 sits highest with quicker access to the Aiguille Rouge summit – windier but snow-surer in warm spells.
| Base | Altitude | Role in domain |
|---|---|---|
| Plagne Centro | ~1,970 m | Central bowl, wide blues |
| Plagne Bellecôte | ~1,930 m | Glacier access, high reds |
| Arco 1800 | ~1,800 m | Busy hub, ski-in options |
| Arco 1950 | ~1,950 m | Pedestrian village, newer build |
| Peisey-Vallandry | ~1,650 m | Traditional chalets, Vanoise link |
Ski sectors at a glance
Aiguille Rouge reaches 3,226 m – steep reds and blacks with Mont Blanc views. Peisey-Vallandry links via the Vanoise Express.
Villards and Mille8 sectors add tree-lined cruising; Malgovert suits beginners away from 1800 crowds.
The mountain & skiing
Paradiski pass loops to La Plagne via the Vanoise Express from Les Coches – allow 45 minutes each way including queues.
The Aiguille Rouge cable car opens high-alpine terrain; the descent to Villaroger is a long red itinerary when snow cover allows.
Wide Plan Vert and Grizzly reds suit confident intermediates; Col de l’Arpette links toward Peisey on scenic traverses.
Speed skiers test the Flying Kilometre on booked sessions – stay clear of the course when flags are out.
The village & après-ski
Arc 1800’s Maison de la Montagne square concentrates bars and supermarkets. Arc 1950’s streets feel Alpine-chic; 1600 is quieter with more apartments.
Bourg-Saint-Maurice at valley floor offers cheaper lodging with funicular access – count the ride when comparing prices.
Snow & season
Arc 2000’s altitude helps in warm March weeks when 1600 turns slushy. North-facing Villaroger sector holds cold snow after thaw.
Wind closes Aiguille Rouge more often than lower sectors – have a tree-run backup at Villards.
Summer & year-round
The Flying Kilometre and hiking trails from Aiguille Rouge attract summer visitors when lifts run. Bourg’s medieval streets reward a valley day off.
Mountain-bike parks use winter pistes from Arc 1800 on selected summer dates.
Safety & mountain etiquette
Steep pitches off Aiguille Rouge catch icy edges early morning – wait for grooming or choose Villards cruisers.
Vanoise Express timing matters – missing the last cabin means a long road loop via Bourg.
Who it suits best
Intermediates and advanced skiers who want Paradiski variety with tree options. Families in Arc 1950 or 1800 for ski-school and restaurant access.
Groups who dislike concrete 1960s architecture should inspect photos of 1600/1800 before booking – 1950 looks different by design.
Getting there
Air gateways (km only): Geneva Airport (~200 km), Chambéry (~130 km), Lyon–Saint-Exupéry (~200 km). Rail: Bourg-Saint-Maurice.
External links
This guide is published by Alps2Alps for general information only. It is not affiliated with Wikipedia or any resort, airport, or lift operator. Facts were accurate at the time of writing; always check official sources before travel.
Prazo de entrega: 13 de fevereiro
Anúncio do vencedor: 14 de fevereiro
