Climbing in Les Arcs

A not-so-gentle but extremely refreshing summer activity is one way to describe canyoning! Plunge yourself into the mountain streams via a series of abseil descents, jumps and natural water slides – just make sure you choose a warm day! You will make your way along rivers and rapids, using the river bed as a natural obstacle course. Not suitable for very young children, but anyone over the age of about eight can take the (very cold) plunge and try canyoning. With the safety of a guide everyone can abseil down cascades, splash into pools and ride the river rapids. You can choose from short beginners’ routes or longer ones for the more adventurous. Different companies will have their own policies on age limits but usually, unless they are booked onto a children's activity course, anyone under the age of about 14 years old will have to be accompanied by an adult. A basic level of swimming ability is required for safety reasons. There are a number of adventure companies that offer guided descents down the local waterways.

Rock climbing

Like most of the Alps, Les Arcs is a great place to go rock climbing for both beginners and experienced climbers. Experienced climbers can tackle the mountainside rock and enjoy the fantastic views (just make sure you have all the right gear and safety equipment). For beginners there are a number of adventure companies or mountain guides who can take you out on your first climb and show you the 'ropes'! Learn all the techniques and skills in the safe hands of a well-trained mountain guide. Climbing is also a great activity for all the family, just check with the guide beforehand what their minimum age is.

If you want to try something different in Les Arcs other than hitting the slopes, then why not try ice climbing? Whether you are an experienced climber or a beginner, you can have a go at ice climbing. Try the man-made ice climbing wall or tackle some of the natural ice waterfalls and glaciers. These form in the valley of Champagny le Haut where some climbing routes are accessible depending on climatic conditions plus there's a huge purpose-built ice climbing tower over there where competitions are held during winter, and anyone can give it a try. There are a few adventure companies and mountain guides who offer ice climbing lessons and guides, for beginners and experts. 

If climbing up sheer rock on the end of a piece of rope sounds a bit scary, then Via Ferrata climbing offers an element of security that still allows beginners to enjoy the achievement of having scaled a mountain! This form of climbing was invented by Italian soldiers in the Dolomites who used it to enable them to scale vertiginous faces easily and quickly. These days it is a popular sport that makes the thrill of mountain climbing more accessible to children, beginners and those who want a bit more security when they climb. Following marked routes through the mountains you are helped along by steps, bridges and ladders whilst being roped up for extra safety. Suitable for adults and children over the age of eight, guides can be arranged on request and there are a number of adventure companies who can organise your Via Ferrata experience.