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Les Arcs Ski Resort Guide

Everything you need to know about Skiing in Les Arcs

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Les Arcs, one of France's premier ski destinations.

As skiing experts with over 20 years of experience organising ski holidays in Les Arcs and in the French Alps, we've compiled everything you need to know about this world-class ski destination. From its extensive ski terrain to its unique villages, this Les Arcs ski resort guide will help you plan the perfect adventure this ski season.

Why Les Arcs Is One Of The Best Ski Resorts?

Les Arcs stands out as one of the French Alps' most versatile ski destinations, combining high-altitude reliability with terrain suitable for every skill level. Part of the prestigious Paradiski area, Les Arcs ski holidays offer 425 kilometers of interconnected slopes, state-of-the-art lift systems, and stunning views of Mont Blanc. The resort's four altitude-based villages each provide distinct experiences, from the family-friendly atmosphere of Arc 1600 to the luxury amenities and accommodation of Arc 1950.

Les Arcs Sign

Getting to Les Arcs

Situated in the heart of France's Savoie region, Les Arcs overlooks the historic Tarentaise Valley. The resort's strategic location makes it easily accessible from major European cities while maintaining its authentic Alpine character. Its prime location in the Savoie region makes it easily accessible from major European cities and for Ski Beat guests flying from the UK, with direct flights available from London Gatwick and Manchester throughout the ski season.

Average Transfer Times

Lyon Arrival Airport
3 hours 15 min Transfer Time
210 km Transfer Distance

Les Arcs Terrain Overview and Statistics

Les Arcs boasts an impressive elevation range from 1,200 to 3,226 meters, ensuring reliable snow conditions throughout the season. The resort's 200 kilometers of maintained pistes integrate seamlessly with the larger Paradiski domain, offering varied terrain across all difficulty levels.

The piste distribution caters to all abilities, with 10% designated as beginner runs, 42% intermediate terrain, 34% advanced slopes, and 14% expert challenges. This balanced mix makes Les Arcs an ideal destination for mixed-ability groups and families.

Les Arcs Piste Map

Download here

Les arcs ski terrain image of snowy mountains
skiiers in Les Arcs on ski lift

Skiing in Les Arcs

Beginner-Friendly Zones

Les Arcs excels in catering to newcomers with dedicated learning areas in Arc 1600 and Arc 1800. These zones feature gentle gradients and wide slopes, perfect for building confidence. Professional instructors from internationally certified ski schools provide multilingual instruction using modern teaching techniques.

Intermediate Paradise

The resort's extensive network of blue runs offers intermediate skiers endless opportunities to progress. The slopes connecting Arc 1800 to Peisey-Vallandry provide particularly enjoyable cruising terrain with spectacular mountain views. Modern lift systems ensure maximum skiing time with minimal queuing.

Advanced and Expert Terrain

Experienced skiers will find their match on the legendary Aiguille Rouge descent, offering an impressive 2,000-meter vertical drop over 7 kilometers. Arc 2000 serves as the perfect base for accessing challenging off-piste terrain and powder fields. Local guides can introduce skilled skiers to hidden gems across the resort's extensive backcountry.

Snowboarding in Les Arcs

Les Arcs is also a haven for snowboarders. The snow park at Arc 1800 features jumps, rails, and boardercross tracks suitable for all levels. Plus, wide, groomed pistes and abundant powder make freeriding a joy.

Snow Conditions and Snowfall in Les Arcs

Les Arcs ensures reliable snow conditions throughout the winter season thanks to the high-altitude location with slopes reaching 3,226 meters at Aiguille Rouge. This French resort's north-facing slopes help preserve snow quality, while extensive snowmaking capabilities cover over 70% of the ski area, guaranteeing excellent coverage even during less snowy periods.

Month Average Snowfall (cm) Snow Days Average Base Depth (cm) Average Summit Depth (cm)
December 75 8-10 40-60 80-110
January 90 10-12 60-80 100-130
February 85 8-10 70-90 110-140
March 65 6-8 60-80 90-120
April 40 4-6 30-50 60-90

Resort Suitability

Families & Kids
Apres & Night Life
Groups
Suitability by Skiing Ability
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
Snowboard

Resort Factfile

1800m Altitude
425km Ski Area
15000m Longest Run
3416m Highest Lift
143 Total Lifts
12 Gondolas
65 Chair Lifts
61 Drag Lifts
232 Pistes
31 Black
125 Red
125 Blue
12 Green

Discover Les Arcs' Unique Villages

Les Arcs comprises four distinctive altitude-based villages, each offering unique advantages for your ski holiday.

The luxurious, car-free Arc 1950 delivers premium ski-in/ski-out experiences with sophisticated dining, shopping, and high-end ski chalet holidays, offering cozy yet elegant accommodations with stunning mountain views.

Arc 1600, the original resort village, provides a peaceful family atmosphere with excellent beginner slopes and direct funicular access from Bourg-Saint-Maurice.

Arc 1800 stands as the resort's vibrant heart, featuring the innovative Mille8 complex and the widest selection of amenities.

At the highest point, Arc 2000 caters to dedicated skiers seeking immediate access to challenging terrain and reliable snow conditions throughout the season.

Les Arcs Ski Chalets
Arc 1950

Prices From £1,255 Per Person

Peisey Vallandry

Prices From £871 Per Person

Things to do in Les Arcs Beyond Skiing

Beyond skiing, Les Arcs offers numerous activities to enhance your mountain experience. The resort features extensive wellness facilities, including the Deep Nature Spa in Arc 1950, snowshoeing trails, and paragliding opportunities. The Mille8 development in Arc 1800 provides year-round entertainment with its aquatic center, snow sports garden, and toboggan runs.

Dining and Entertainment

Mountain Gastronomy

Les Arcs' culinary scene celebrates Savoyard traditions while embracing contemporary dining trends. Mountain restaurants like L'Arpette combine stunning views with authentic local dishes, while Arc 1950's fine dining establishments offer sophisticated interpretations of regional cuisine. Traditional specialties such as tartiflette and fondue can be found throughout the resort, particularly in the cozy restaurants of Arc 1600.

Après-Ski and Nightlife

The resort's après-ski offerings vary by village, with Arc 1800's Red Hot Saloon leading the way for live music and social atmosphere. Arc 1950 provides a more refined evening experience at venues like Bar Mont Blanc, while Arc 2000's Chalet Luigi hosts energetic parties and events throughout the season.

nightlife in Les Arcs

Planning Your Trip to Les Arcs

For the optimal Les Arcs experience, we recommend booking your ski holiday well in advance, particularly for peak periods such as Christmas, New Year, and February half-term. Ski Beat's experienced team can assist with all aspects of your booking, from travel arrangements to ski passes and equipment rental. Book your perfect ski holiday today!

Practical Information and Bookings

For the optimal Les Arcs experience, we recommend booking your ski holiday well in advance, particularly for peak periods such as Christmas, New Year, and February half-term. Ski Beat's experienced team can assist with all aspects of your booking, from travel arrangements to ski passes and equipment rental. Book your perfect ski holiday today!

Ski Passes

Les Arcs offers flexible ski passes tailored to suit different needs. Choose from local passes covering just Les Arcs or Paradiski passes for unlimited access to the entire domain. Early booking discounts and family packages make skiing more affordable. If you want help with obtaining your ski pass, please let us know and we will be more than happy to help.

Ski Schools & Rentals

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your technique, Les Arcs has top-rated ski schools with multilingual instructors. Ski Beat can also assist with equipment rentals, ensuring you’re ready to hit the slopes as soon as you arrive.

Accommodation in Les Arcs

Les Arcs features diverse accommodation choices across its villages. Ski Beat specialises in catered chalet holidays, combining comfortable lodging with excellent hospitality and traditional Alpine cuisine. Early booking is recommended, particularly for peak season dates and premium locations!

Arc 1950, Les Arcs, France

Chalet Alouette

Sleeps 6
Ski Area km
Ski Access Door Step
Wifi
Log Fire
Sauna
Jacuzzi

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Peisey Vallandry, Les Arcs, France

Chalet Bayona

Sleeps 15
Ski Area km
Ski Access 50m
Wifi
Log Fire
Sauna
Jacuzzi
12th Apr 2025
£595
Price Includes Return flights Shared return airport transfers 20kg baggage allowance 7 nights accommodation Catered chalet Breakfast, afternoon tea & dinner with wine on 6 days Holiday bonded & protected Ski beat's chalet hosting service Local tourist tax

Arc 1950, Les Arcs, France

Chalet Coulicou

Sleeps 9
Ski Area km
Ski Access Door Step
Wifi
Log Fire
Sauna
Jacuzzi

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Peisey Vallandry, Les Arcs, France

Chalet Dahu

Sleeps 10
Ski Area km
Ski Access Ski Back
Wifi
Log Fire
Sauna
Jacuzzi
12th Apr 2025
£660
Price Includes Return flights Shared return airport transfers 20kg baggage allowance 7 nights accommodation Catered chalet Breakfast, afternoon tea & dinner with wine on 6 days Holiday bonded & protected Ski beat's chalet hosting service Local tourist tax

Peisey Vallandry, Les Arcs, France

Chalet Fleur de Neige

Sleeps 15
Ski Area km
Ski Access 50m
Wifi
Log Fire
Sauna
Jacuzzi
11th Apr 2026
£1,056
Price Includes Return flights Shared return airport transfers 20kg baggage allowance 7 nights accommodation Catered chalet Breakfast, afternoon tea & dinner with wine on 6 days Holiday bonded & protected Ski beat's chalet hosting service Local tourist tax

Arc 1950, Les Arcs, France

Chalet Hibou des Neiges

Sleeps 6
Ski Area km
Ski Access Doorstep
Wifi
Log Fire
Sauna
Jacuzzi

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Arc 1950, Les Arcs, France

Chalet Roselin

Sleeps 10
Ski Area km
Ski Access Door Step
Wifi
Log Fire
Sauna
Jacuzzi

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Peisey Vallandry, Les Arcs, France

Chalet Tetras Lyre

Sleeps 12
Ski Area km
Ski Access Doorstep
Wifi
Log Fire
Sauna
Jacuzzi
13th Dec 2025
£1,016
Price Includes Return flights Shared return airport transfers 20kg baggage allowance 7 nights accommodation Catered chalet Breakfast, afternoon tea & dinner with wine on 6 days Holiday bonded & protected Ski beat's chalet hosting service Local tourist tax

Peisey Vallandry, Les Arcs, France

Chalet Alpaca

Sleeps 9
Ski Area km
Ski Access Ski Back
Wifi
Log Fire
Sauna
Jacuzzi
13th Dec 2025
£871
Price Includes Return flights Shared return airport transfers 20kg baggage allowance 7 nights accommodation Catered chalet Breakfast, afternoon tea & dinner with wine on 6 days Holiday bonded & protected Ski beat's chalet hosting service Local tourist tax

Peisey Vallandry, Les Arcs, France

Chalet Blanchot

Sleeps 9
Ski Area km
Ski Access Ski Back
Wifi
Log Fire
Sauna
Jacuzzi
12th Apr 2025
£660
Price Includes Return flights Shared return airport transfers 20kg baggage allowance 7 nights accommodation Catered chalet Breakfast, afternoon tea & dinner with wine on 6 days Holiday bonded & protected Ski beat's chalet hosting service Local tourist tax
(ex London Gatwick)

Les Arcs Ski Resort FAQ's

How high is Les Arcs?

Les Arcs spans an altitude range from 1,200 meters in Bourg-Saint-Maurice to 3,226 meters at the Aiguille Rouge summit.

Where is Les Arcs?

Les Arcs is in France, nestled in the French Alps, within the Paradiski ski domain. This ski resort overlooks the picturesque Tarentaise Valley. Les Arcs' location in the Savoie region makes it easily accessible from the UK and major European cities, especially during the ski season.

Is Les Arcs good for beginners?

Yes, Les Arcs is highly regarded for its beginner-friendly slopes, excellent ski schools, and safe learning areas in Arc 1600 and Arc 1800.

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