Non-skier things to do in Les Arcs

Hire a guide or go on a tour

Snowshoeing and ski-touring

You can really get away from it all and disappear into nature on some snowshoes (raquettes). Grab a printed guide from the tourist office or book yourself on a snowshoe excursion with an activity company to see a side of the mountains that most skiers will never see. Full-day, half-day and night-time options are available to take you into the heart of the mountains – from the highest peaks to the wildest valleys. Equipment and transport are usually included, check when you book.

Always dress for the weather - layers are the key, sunglasses and sun cream are vital even on a cloudy day. Stick to the trails, respect the environment and be aware of changing conditions.

If you've decided the days of skiing up the mountain all-day, every-day, are well behind you, those with previous skiing / snowboarding experience could try ski touring. There are many famous ski touring routes in the area, and it's a great way to work up a sweat, earning your burger whilst the rest of the world takes the lifts. Hire a guide and pull on some skins for an adventure far from the madding crowd.

AIM Snowsports mountain guides

Location
Arc 1800

This ski and snowboard school offer off-piste guiding with fully qualified British instructors so you can enjoy the best spots in the Paradiski area in safety.
Snowshoeing

Location
Arc 2000

This is a perfect way to discover the charm and serenity of the mountains away from the busy pistes.
Snowshoeing

Location
Arc 1950

This is a perfect way to discover the charm and serenity of the mountains away from the busy pistes.
Backcountry ski guides

Location
Bourg-Saint-Maurice

A private ski or snowboard session for all ability levels – on and off-piste. It’s all about fun, improvement and discovering new off piste terrain.
Mountain Spirit mountain guides

Location
Arc 1950

With a team of experienced mountain guides and ski instructors, discover the exceptional off-piste areas around Les Arcs.
Compagnie des Guides de la Vanoise

Location
Aime La Plagne

The bureau of Mountain Guides Montchavin les Coches can tailor each activity to suit you and your group, from canyoning, hiking, and high mountain adventures.

Visit some local highlights

Les Arcs offers a surprising range of cultural attractions for a small mountain town.
You can discover more about the minerals and fauna of the area, visit the ice cave grotto situated at the top of the Transarc gondola, or drop into the Bourg St Maurice Coeur d'Or cinema. Located in the town centre it's easy to access using the free bus service, just grab a box of popcorn and catch up on the latest releases - look for VOST or VO (version originale) for English language films.

Non-skiers can enjoy the mountains by buying a pedestrian lift pass, gaining access to many more areas and activities - high-altitude restaurants, enjoy a mulled wine on the Col de la Chal (at 2,600m) or take some freeze-frame photos of Mont Blanc from the Aiguille Rouge peak (at 3,226m).

Minerals and Fauna of the Alps Museum

Location
Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Alpine collection of minerals from around Bourg St Maurice and Mont Blanc and slideshows on the wildlife of the Alps.
Maison de la Pomme

Location
Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Exhibits and short films about pressing apples in the Savoie region which includes information about experiments conducted to see how to preserve the juice.
Grotte de Glace Ice Caves

Situated at the top of the Transarc gondola in Arc 2000, the “Grotte de Glace” is quite an extraordinary place to visit. Dozens of sculptors from all over Europe spend a week here at the start of each season, carving wonderfully exotic figures out of the snow and ice.
Vanoise National Park

Location
Champagny-en-Vanoise

The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the Tarentaise region.

Treat yourself

Or if all of that sounds far too active and you really just want to pamper yourself and read your book, or stare at the view, there are numerous spas and treatment rooms you can enjoy. Many hotels have luxury spas which are open to non-guests, and mobile massage companies will arrange to visit you at your chalet or apartment.

Mille8 aquatic and fitness centre

Location
Arc 1800

This huge 3800m² centre incorporates an outdoor and indoor swimming pool, water jets, bubble beds, massage jets, fitness room with gym and cardio equipment, spa with two steam rooms and two saunas, relaxation room and showers.
Taj-i-Mah Spa

Location
Arc 2000

The Taj-i-Mah Spa is a 400 m² wellness area designed for relaxation and recovery. Located within the hotel, it features large windows overlooking the ski slopes, creating a bright and peaceful setting where guests can unwind after a day outdoors.
Hotel Arcadien Spa

Location
Arc 1600

The atmosphere of this spa will envelope you in a sense of well-being. Enjoy a soothing massage or a soak in the Jacuzzi.
Massage Me

Massage Me work across the French Alps and can offer a whole variety of massages and treatments in your own chalet, apartment or hotel.
Deep Nature Spa

Location
Arc 1950

This spa is situated in the village of Arc 1950, a village specifically designed so you can get around on your skis. Therefore, you will have no trouble accessing this spa after an active day on the slopes.
Nama Spa Hotel du Golf

Location
Arc 1800

This spa is located in the Golf Hotel in Les Arcs 1800. Situated at the foot of the slopes, it's easy to stop off here on your way back to your accommodation after a day of skiing or snowboarding.

Book a table up the mountain

You don't have to ski to go up the mountain. In fact Les Arcs boasts some fantastic piste-side restaurants serving local and international cuisine. You can visit all the various areas, and if you're hungry like the wolf at lunchtime, most restaurants serve a “plat du jour,” or even a “menu du jour,” which is often very good value and always washed down with a glass of local wine - go on, you deserve it.

La Folie Douce - La Petite Cuisine Restaurant

Location
Arc 1800

La Petite Cuisine is La Folie Douce's gourmet-quality, canteen-style restaurant. They serve a perfect mix of high-class local cuisine in a friendly, family atmosphere.
La Folie Douce - Le Butcher Restaurant

Location
Arc 1800

Le Butcher at La Folie Douce in Les Arcs serves up quick, tasty burgers, sandwiches and snacks right on the slopes. Ideal for a speedy lunch before heading back to the ski runs or joining the lively party on the terrace, it caters to both eat-in and takeaway guests. With its energetic atmosphere and prime location, Le Butcher is a favourite spot to enjoy good food while soaking up the buzz of one of Les Arcs’ most vibrant après-ski destinations.
Aiguille Grive Restaurant

Location
Arc 1800

This chic piste-side restaurant is situated just above Les Arc 1800, close to the Chamettoger chairlift and accessible via road or on foot from the resort centre.
La Folie Douce - La Fruitière Restaurant

Location
Arc 1800

Located at the top of the Villards gondola in Arc 1800, within the celebrated La Folie Douce après-ski and gourmet hotspot, La Fruitière serves delicious modern dishes based on traditional flavours.
Le Chalet du Friolin Restaurant

Location
Montchavin

You can dine on the sun terrace with fantastic views of the mountains or in the warm and cosy dining room with log fireplace.
L'Arpette Restaurant

Location
Arc 1800

Situated on the blue piste Belvedere, accessible to skiers of all capabilities.

Nordic skiing

If you're looking for a new mountain activity, try cross-country skiing ('ski de fond'), one of France's most popular winter sports. The Pardiski area offers numerous trails for all abilities, with peaceful routes to explore once you've mastered the basics. For the most spectacular scenery, head to the Nordic area of Peisey-Nancroix at Pont Baudin, where well-maintained trails cross a vast plateau at the gateway to the Vanoise National Park. Equipment hire and lessons are available locally.

Group ski lessons

Established in 1991, this ski and snowboard school was one of the first British ski schools in France and is renowned for its fantastic instructors and excellent customer service.
Group ski lessons

This ski school offers group snowboard and ski lessons for adults and children in Arc 1600 and 1800.
Private ski lessons

This ski school connects snow sports enthusiasts of all abilities with expert ski and snowboard instructors across Europe’s top resorts. With thousands of top-rated, verified instructors to choose from, their private lessons offer a flexible and personalised learning experience.
Private ski lessons

This ski school offers private snowboard and ski lessons for adults and children. They provide a personalised service for all abilities.
Private ski lessons

Established in 1991, this ski and snowboard school was one of the first British-run ski schools in France. Their team is known for going the extra mile, offering excellent customer service and delivering outstanding lessons and guiding.
Private ski lessons

This British Ski School was set up by John Paul McCarthy, a fully qualified British instructor, who has successfully created a school of like minded, passionate snowsports professionals, who care about promoting safe and enjoyable skiing experiences.

Apres-ski with everyone else

You don't have to ski to enjoy "après-ski". Meet up with the rest of your group in a local bar and share stories from your day over a beer. La Folie Douce in Les Arcs 1800 is a great way to spend the afternoon watching the amazing cabaret, then dance to the live, dynamic house band. Accessible on foot via the Gondola des Villards. Alternatively you could head to one of the local ice rinks for a fun evening set beneath the snow-clad mountains. If you still want more, grab a sled and head to one of the two toboggan runs.

See our Nightlife Guide

La Folie Douce

Location
Arc 1800

High in the mountains above Les Arcs, La Folie Douce brings its legendary energy to the slopes, transforming every afternoon into a spectacular celebration. Known for its vibrant mix of music, dance, and performance, this iconic après-ski venue is where the mountain meets the party in true Folie Douce style.
Le 2134 Rooftop Bar

Location
Arc 2000

Le 2134 Rooftop Bar is the go-to spot in Arc 2000, offering one of the most impressive panoramic views in the resort. Set above the rooftops, its spacious terrace looks out over the surrounding peaks, creating a breathtaking backdrop for relaxed afternoons and memorable evenings in the mountains.
Benji's Pub Restaurant

Location
Arc 1800

Benji’s in Les Arcs 1800 is a lively, no-nonsense spot serving Tex-Mex dishes, juicy steaks and hearty burgers right by the piste. Its sunny terrace is ideal for a relaxed lunch or a refreshing après-ski drink while soaking up the mountain views. With generous portions, a welcoming pub-style atmosphere and a convenient location, Benji’s is a favourite for skiers and snowboarders looking for satisfying food, good drinks and a fun, relaxed vibe in the heart of the resort.
Bowling Arc 2000

Location
Arc 2000

Right in the heart of Arc 2000, Bowling des Arcs 2000 is the ultimate après-ski and evening destination for all ages. Open daily from five pm until two am - or earlier if the weather closes the slopes - it’s the perfect spot to relax, play, and socialise after a day on the mountains.
Mojo Bar

Location
Arc 1800

Right in the heart of Vallandry, Mojo Bar is, as the English say, the place to be! Easily accessible on foot, it’s the perfect spot for anyone who loves a lively après-ski and long, festive evenings.
O'Chaud Lounge Bar

Location
Arc 1950

O’Chaud Lounge Bar in Les Arcs offers the perfect blend of cosy charm and vibrant nightlife. By day, this stylish bar-club provides a relaxed atmosphere where guests can unwind with a warm drink or a light snack. The elegant décor and welcoming ambience make it ideal for a leisurely afternoon, while the gourmet finger food - perfect for sharing - adds a touch of sophistication to your break from the slopes.

Things to do in Les Arcs

Take to the skies for a bird's eye view of the mountains with a tandem paragliding flight, or book yourself onto a helicopter tour.

In Les Arcs 1800 head to the Mille8 Aquatic and Fitness Centre, a gigantic 3,800m² centre where you can enjoy an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, water massage jets, bubble beds, plus a fitness room with gym and cardio equipment, a spa with two steam rooms and two saunas, and a relaxation room. In Bourg St Maurice the Centre Nautique has a 25m indoor swimming pool open all year. So don't forget to pack your gym kit and a swimsuit (speedo-style only boys).

Experience the mountains in a different way with a husky sled ride, either driving your own team or riding with a guide. Other memorable options include evening skidoo tours, horse-drawn sleigh rides in Peisey-Nancroix, and horse riding around Bourg Saint Maurice. Advance booking is recommended for popular activities.

See our Activity Guide

Village Igloo Aperitif & Dinner

Location
Arc 1800

A dining experience like no other! A spectacular and unique 180m2 ice grotto, bar, restaurant and mini hotel in Les Arcs, where you'll enjoy a typical Savoyard cheese fondue or aperitif in a unique setting.
Hydrospeeding

Location
Bourg-Saint-Maurice

This activity is accessible to those comfortable in water, no need to be a professional diver or swimmer, you just have to be smart at using the water movements, obstacles and waves.
Mille8 aquatic and fitness centre

Location
Arc 1800

This huge 3800m² centre incorporates an outdoor and indoor swimming pool, water jets, bubble beds, massage jets, fitness room with gym and cardio equipment, spa with two steam rooms and two saunas, relaxation room and showers.
Snowshoeing

Location
Arc 2000

This is a perfect way to discover the charm and serenity of the mountains away from the busy pistes.
Rafting In The Alps

Location
Bourg-Saint-Maurice

White water rafting is accessible to all who love the natural environment and who are in search of a bit of adventure. These excursions will leave you with some unforgettable memories.
Helicopter tours

Location
Bourg-Saint-Maurice

A fantastic way to see the resort with your friends and family and a great way to entertain any non-skiers in your group.