Les Arcs: A Paradiski Paradise

4.6 (5360)

Discover Les Arcs: A premier French ski resort with diverse villages, extensive slopes, and a rich blend of winter activities and architectural history.

Home
France
Val D Isere
Les Arcs

Les Arcs is a renowned ski resort in the Tarentaise Valley, France, comprising four distinct villages offering a wide range of winter sports and activities. Linked to the Paradiski area, it provides access to over 425 km of slopes, catering to all skill levels, with each village offering a unique atmosphere and architectural style.

A brief summary to Les Arcs

Bourg-Saint-Maurice, 73700, FR
Click to display
Click to display

Local tips

Take advantage of the free shuttle buses connecting the different villages to explore the unique atmosphere of each.
Purchase a Paradiski ski pass to access the full 425 km of slopes and avoid long queues with the Premium pass express lanes.
Visit the Beaufort cheese dairy in Bourg-Saint-Maurice for a taste of local culture.
Explore the Mille8 complex in Arc 1800 for year-round entertainment, including an aquatic center and toboggan runs.
Consider flying into Geneva for convenient access to Les Arcs, with regular shuttle services available.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

L' Arpette

L' Arpette: A Culinary Haven in the Heart of the Alps

Golf des Arcs

Tee Off in the Majestic Alps: Golf des Arcs

Club Med Arcs Panorama - French Alps

Experience Luxury and Adventure at Club Med Arcs Panorama - French Alps

Getting There

Public Transport

From Bourg-Saint-Maurice, the primary access point to Les Arcs, take the funicular located at the train station. This scenic, seven-minute ride ascends to Arc 1600. From Arc 1600, free shuttle buses provide access to Arc 1800, Arc 1950 and Arc 2000. Funicular tickets cost €3 for an ascent, €3 for a descent, or €5 for a round trip. The funicular operates frequently from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm, with departures every 20 minutes. Bus transfers between Arc 1600 and the other villages are free.
Taxi

From Bourg-Saint-Maurice, taxis are available to reach any of the Les Arcs villages. The ride to Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950, or Arc 2000 typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. A taxi from Bourg-Saint-Maurice to Arc 1600, 1800, 1950 or 2000 will cost approximately €50-€80. Prices may vary, and it is advisable to confirm the fare before starting the journey. Booking in advance is recommended.
Driving

From Bourg-Saint-Maurice, follow the D119 road towards Les Arcs. The road winds up the mountain for approximately 17 km to Arc 1600, with continued access to Arc 1800, Arc 1950 and Arc 2000. Parking is available in each village, with free outdoor parking in Bourg St Maurice and Arc 1600. However, parking in Arc 1800, Arc 1950 and Arc 2000 is primarily paid, with both outdoor and covered options. Parking rates in Arc 2000 range from €23.40 for 24 hours to €85.00 for 6 days. Arc 1800 offers free parking for the first four hours, with subsequent charges. Advance booking is available on the Les Arcs tourist office website.

Discover more about Les Arcs

Les Arcs, nestled in the Tarentaise Valley town of Bourg-Saint-Maurice, is a premier ski resort in France, famed for its vast ski area and diverse village experiences. Conceived by Robert Blanc and Roger Godino, Les Arcs was designed with a focus on functionality, aesthetics, and respect for the natural environment. The resort comprises four main villages: Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950, and Arc 2000, each offering a unique ambiance and set of attractions. Arc 1600, the original village, provides a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with excellent beginner slopes and direct access via the funicular from Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Arc 1800 is the largest and most vibrant, featuring the innovative Mille8 complex and a wide array of amenities. Arc 1950 stands out with its charming pedestrian streets, luxurious accommodations, and ski-in/ski-out access. Finally, Arc 2000, the highest of the villages, guarantees exceptional snow conditions and caters to advanced skiers with challenging runs. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Les Arcs offers a plethora of activities, including snowshoeing, paragliding, and spa facilities. The Mille8 complex in Arc 1800 provides year-round entertainment with its aquatic center and toboggan runs. Visitors can also explore the local culture by visiting the Beaufort cheese dairy in Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Les Arcs is not only a winter wonderland but also a destination with a rich history and architectural significance. The resort was awarded the 20th Century Heritage Label in 2006, recognizing the urban planning and architecture of Arc 1600 and Arc 1800. The resort's design, influenced by Charlotte Perriand, aimed to integrate buildings into the mountain landscape, maximizing sunlight and panoramic views.