Accommodation
The Skiing
Les Arcs is a ski paradise for all levels and styles of skiers. It is part of the Paradiski area, which is the second largest linked ski area in the world, after Les Trois Vallées. You can enjoy 425 km of slopes, 258 individual ski runs, and three individual ski resorts: Les Arcs, Peisey-Vallandry, and La Plagne. The ski pass gives you access to the whole area, but make sure to check the ski area maps before you buy it, so you can plan your routes and avoid disappointment.
We spent two days in Les Arcs, between 30-31 January, and we had a blast. The snow was fresh, the sun was shining, and the views were stunning. We skied mostly in Arc 2000 and Arc 1950, which are the highest and most snow-sure villages in Les Arcs. We also took the Vanoise Express cable car to La Plagne, which was a fun and scenic ride. The slopes were varied, from gentle greens and blues, to challenging reds and blacks. We especially loved the Aiguille Rouge, which is the highest point in Les Arcs, at 3226 m, and offers a thrilling 7 km descent to Villaroger.
Apres Vibes
Les Arcs is not known for its wild apres scene, but it still has some decent options for those who want to have some fun after skiing. There are five villages you can stay in: Arc 2000, Arc 1950, Arc 1800, Arc 1600, and Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Each village has its own vibe and atmosphere, so make sure to research them before you book your accommodation. We stayed in Arc 1950, which is a charming and cozy village, with a relaxed and family-friendly feel.
The two bars that we recommend for apres are:
- Folie Douce: This is the ultimate apres bar on the mountain. It is located in Arc 1800, and you can ski there or take the free shuttle bus. It has live DJs, dancers, and musicians, who create a festive and energetic atmosphere. You can dance on the tables, drink champagne, and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains. It is open until 7 pm, so you can party until the sun sets.
- Bar Chez Boubou: This is a pub-style bar, with an alpine and rustic feel. It is located in Arc 2000, and it is a great place to unwind after a long day of skiing. It has a large selection of Belgian beers, as well as shots and cocktails. It also has a pool table, a dart board, and a fireplace, to keep you entertained and warm.
Mountain Restaurants
Les Arcs has plenty of mountain restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy a delicious meal or a hot drink, while admiring the views of the slopes. Some of the places that we tried and liked are:
- Village Igloo: This is a unique and cool place, where you can have a drink inside an actual igloo. It is located in Arc 2000, and it is not as expensive as you might think. You can choose from a variety of drinks, such as hot chocolate, mulled wine, or vodka. The igloo is decorated with ice sculptures and snow art, and it is a fun and cozy experience.
- Le Chalet de l’Arcelle: This is a traditional and authentic mountain restaurant, where you can taste some of the local specialties, such as tartiflette, raclette, or fondue. It is located in Arc 1600, and it has a terrace with a panoramic view of the valley. The service is friendly and attentive, and the portions are generous and tasty.