Les Arcs came to be in 1968 after a group of ski instructors and architects dreamt up a resort with all the perks of a village but a mountainside location. It grew into one of the largest, most incredible ski areas in the Alps. The closest airport is Chambery with a transfer time of a couple of hours, plus transport links from Geneva, Lyon and Grenoble.
Present-day Les Arcs consists of four main purpose built villages. The original resort, Arc 1600, was created for doorstep skiing and is linked by a funicular ...
As you'd expect from one of the biggest ski areas on the planet, there's everything from gorgeous tree-lined runs to wild, white-knuckle off-piste. For beginners, each of the 3 main Arcs has 'ski tranquille' zone, and the wide beginner runs leading to the resort have gentle gradients perfect for practising. Local instructors are on hand to show you the ropes, with ski schools based in each of the main villages (1800 has the most). There are magic carpet lifts at 1800 and 2000 - an easy way for newbies to get up ...
If you're looking for a party, Arc 1800 is the place to be. With heaps of watering holes like the Red Hot Saloon (or the 'Red Bar' to use local lingo), Benji's and La Folie Douce. If you're looking for more of a French-style après spot, Ambiente Cafe has a really cool atmosphere and lots of nice cocktails (happy hour usually starts at 4) while Le club 1950 your venue if you're looking to party into the wee hours. Arc 1600's a little quieter but for good music and a scenic terrace check out Les 2 Têtes.
In te...