Les Arcs Travel Guide

Les Arcs, nestled in the Tarentaise Valley town of Bourg-Saint-Maurice, is more than just a ski resort; it's a collection of four unique, purpose-built villages – Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950, and Arc 2000 – each offering a distinct experience. Conceived in the 1960s by Roger Godino and Robert Blanc, Les Arcs was designed with a focus on functionality, aesthetics, and respect for the natural environment.Arc 1600, the original village, provides a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with excellent beginner slopes and direct funicular access from Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Arc 1800, the vibrant heart of the resort, features the innovative Mille8 complex and a wide array of amenities. Arc 2000 caters to dedicated skiers with immediate access to challenging terrain and reliable snow conditions. In contrast, Arc 1950, built in 2003, embraces a more traditional Alpine architectural style.As part of the Paradiski system, Les Arcs offers access to 425 km of pistes, 141 lifts, and a diverse range of slopes suitable for all skill levels. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, paragliding, ice skating, and spa treatments. The resort also hosts events like the Festival de Cinema Europeen des Arcs.Les Arcs is easily accessible by train to Bourg-Saint-Maurice, followed by a short funicular ride to Arc 1600 and free connecting buses to the other villages. The resort also offers accessible facilities and services for visitors with disabilities.