Base: 1,200m (Arc 1600) / 2,000m (Arc 2000) | Summit: 3,226m | Piste: 425km (Paradiski with La Plagne) | Lifts: 136 (Paradiski) | Season: Dec–Apr | Airport: Geneva (GVA) — 2.5 hrs; Chambéry (CMF) — 1.5 hrs
Les Arcs is one of France’s most versatile resorts — four purpose-built villages at different altitudes sharing access to the vast Paradiski area (425km with La Plagne), connected by the iconic Vanoise Express cable car. It’s also home to the Aiguille Rouge (3,226m), one of the most spectacular summit viewpoints in the Alps, with a 2,000m vertical descent beneath it.
Resort overview
Les Arcs is split across four villages: Arc 1600 (the original), Arc 1800 (the largest and most lively), Arc 1950 (newest, most polished, car-free village), and Arc 2000 (closest to the high skiing). Each has its own character — Arc 1950 is the most architecturally appealing, Arc 1800 has the best après-ski and amenities, and Arc 2000 gives the most direct access to top-mountain terrain.
The Paradiski connection via the Vanoise Express doubles-decker cable car (carrying up to 200 people) links Les Arcs to La Plagne — a remarkable 425km of combined piste across a single lift pass. It’s genuinely one of the largest and best ski areas in the Alps.
Les Arcs was one of the first French resorts designed specifically for skiing efficiency — the famous “arc” layout means most runs flow naturally back to the village without traversing. Even 50 years after opening, the design holds up exceptionally well.
Getting there
The Eurostar Ski Train from London St Pancras runs directly to Bourg-Saint-Maurice in peak season — the resort is 15 minutes by funicular from the station, making Les Arcs one of the most accessible major resorts from the UK. By air, Geneva (GVA) is the main hub at 2.5 hours, with Lyon (LYS) and Chambéry (CMF) offering additional options. Driving from Geneva takes approximately 2.5 hours via the A40 motorway.
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The skiing
Terrain and pistes
The 425km Paradiski area covers all abilities well. In Les Arcs specifically, the terrain above Arc 2000 and the Aiguille Rouge sector offers the best high-altitude skiing — long, sustained reds and blacks with big mountain views. The Grand Col and the runs above Arc 1600 provide excellent intermediate terrain. The descent from the Aiguille Rouge summit (3,226m) to the valley at Villaroger is 7km of consistently steep skiing and is one of the great piste runs in France.
The La Plagne side of Paradiski — accessible via the Vanoise Express — adds glacier skiing, extensive beginner terrain, and more variety. The combined area genuinely takes a full week to explore.
Off-piste and freeriding
The Aiguille Rouge and Grand Col sectors are excellent for off-piste with a guide. The north-facing aspects above Arc 2000 hold powder well after a storm. The Combe de la Chal is a popular freeride descent. Les Arcs hosts regular freestyle and freeride events and has a strong ski culture beyond piste skiing.
Ski schools and lessons
The ESF has branches in all four villages. The Arc Aventures school has a particularly good reputation for off-piste guiding and advanced instruction. English is widely spoken across all ski schools.
Lift passes
The Paradiski pass (covering all of Les Arcs and La Plagne) costs approximately €280–310 for six days. A Les Arcs-only pass is cheaper at around €230–260 if you don’t intend to cross to La Plagne. Book online for the best prices and to skip the queues at the pass office.
Where to stay
Arc 1950 is the premium choice — a purpose-built village with underground car parking, ski-in/ski-out access, and high-quality apartments and chalets in a pedestrianised setting. Arc 1800 has the most amenities and nightlife. Arc 2000 is the choice for maximising time on the mountain. Bourg-Saint-Maurice at the valley bottom offers cheaper accommodation with funicular access to Arc 1600.
Self-catering apartments are the dominant accommodation type. Several UK catered chalet operators run in Arc 1800 and Arc 1950.
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Après-ski
Arc 1800 is the après-ski hub — the Jardin de Killy and the various bars along the pedestrian street get lively from 4pm. The resort isn’t as wild as Ischgl or Val d’Isère but has a solid atmosphere, particularly in the British-heavy Christmas and February periods. Arc 1950 has a more sophisticated, quieter bar and restaurant scene.
Best time to visit
January through March is the sweet spot. The altitude of the main skiing area (most of it above 1,800m) means good snow reliability throughout the season. February is peak season and prices spike accordingly. March offers excellent conditions with longer days and better weather. Early December can be variable below 2,000m — stick to the top sectors if visiting early season.
Tips and insider advice
- Take the Vanoise Express to La Plagne at least once — cross early (by 10am) to avoid the queue on the return leg.
- The Aiguille Rouge descent to Villaroger is best done in the morning before the snow softens — plan it as a day highlight rather than an end-of-day run.
- Arc 1950 has underground parking and is genuinely car-free — if you’re driving, it’s by far the most pleasant arrival experience.
- The Eurostar Ski Train is the most stress-free way to get here from the UK. Book it months in advance — it sells out early in peak season.
- The funicular from Bourg-Saint-Maurice to Arc 1600 is free with a lift pass — useful for valley evenings out or the train connection.
- Rent skis in Bourg-Saint-Maurice rather than in the resort for significantly lower prices (around 30–40% cheaper).
- The Col de la Chal itinerary run (marked but ungroomed) is a fantastic day out for competent skiers — check conditions with the piste patrol before heading out.
Frequently asked questions
What is Paradiski?
Paradiski is the combined ski area linking Les Arcs and La Plagne via the Vanoise Express double-decker cable car. With 425km of piste and 136 lifts, it’s one of the largest linked ski areas in the world — comparable to Les Trois Vallées — all on a single lift pass.
Which Arc village should I stay in?
Arc 1950 for comfort and convenience (car-free, ski-in/ski-out, modern). Arc 1800 for the best nightlife and amenities. Arc 2000 for the most direct access to the best skiing. Arc 1600 for the funicular connection and a slightly lower price point.
Is Les Arcs good for beginners?
Yes — the resort has gentle green and blue runs at all four village levels, and the ESF has dedicated beginner areas at each altitude. Arc 1600 and Arc 1800 have particularly good nursery slopes with easy lift access.
Can you get here by train?
Yes — this is one of Les Arcs’ biggest advantages. Bourg-Saint-Maurice station is at the base of the resort, served by the Eurostar Ski Train from London in season and regular TGV services from Paris (around 4 hours). A 7-minute funicular runs from the station up to Arc 1600.
How does Les Arcs compare to Val d’Isère?
Les Arcs is better for families, intermediates, and those who want a large ski area without the intensity of Val d’Isère. Val d’Isère has more challenging terrain and a stronger off-piste culture. Les Arcs + Paradiski is larger in total piste km but less challenging at the top end.
What is the Aiguille Rouge?
The Aiguille Rouge (3,226m) is the highest point of the Les Arcs ski area — a cable car summit with panoramic views across the Mont Blanc massif. Below it is a 2,000m vertical descent to Villaroger, including a steep black run that’s one of the great piste experiences in France.
When is the best time to visit for snow?
January through March is the most reliable window. The high-altitude terrain above 2,000m is snow-sure throughout the season. February is peak season with the best snow coverage but highest prices and crowds. March offers the best balance of conditions, weather, and value.
Is there good après-ski at Les Arcs?
Arc 1800 has the most active après-ski scene — several bars and the Jardin de Killy are busy from late afternoon. It’s lively but not on the scale of Val d’Isère or Ischgl. Arc 1950 is much quieter with a more upscale, relaxed atmosphere.
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