A busy time in resort coinciding with some great skiing conditions
It's the school holidays and the resort is full to the brim with families.
On the slopes and throughout town it's buzzing with activity. Les Arcs lays on plenty of entertainment, with regular events and parties going on around town.
Read on for a look at what we like to do in resort throughout February.
There is still regular snowfall - averaging 12 snow days in February - and very much like January the daily temperatures generally fall between a high of -2ºC and a low of -10ºC, with around just over five hours of sunshine. Still very much a time for wearing a thermal under-layer.
February is a popular month for families so the slopes are noticeably busier as soon as the four-week French holidays begin. Fortunately, the ski area is so vast, that even in high season you can find quiet slopes and minimal lift queues. From mid-month the draglifts, chairlifts, ‘lobster-pots’ and gondolas all work that little bit harder. More daylight equates to later lift closing which, in turn, means more ski-time for everyone. On average, the ski-lifts stay open for an additional 15 minutes, with it becoming possible to take a final ascent out of all the resorts at 17:15. This is extra time that can be advantageously spent having a refreshing beer on a slope-side terrace, or shredding down a near-deserted piste as the sun sets in hues of blue and pink.
Here are our insider's top tips for the school holidays:
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.
This ski school offers group snowboard and ski lessons for adults and children in Arc 1600 and 1800.
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.
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.
This ski school offers group ski lessons for both children and adults, catering to all ability levels. Their group lessons provide a great and affordable way to improve your skiing in a safe, social and supportive environment.
This ski school offers group snowboard and ski lessons for adults and children.
If, like most people, you like to follow several hours of exercise with several hours of drinking, you can hit up any of a number of local après-ski sessions. Down at the bottom of the slopes you'll find a range of eateries and bars offering great music, delicious food and happy hours.
For late-night entertainment, the clubs hold special nights on most days of the week.
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 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.
This lively bar and street-food spot in Les Arcs 2000 serves generous portions from morning through to late evening. The menu features pizzas, pasta, huge burgers, grilled meats and fresh salads, offering something for every appetite. Whether you’re looking for a quick, satisfying bite between runs or a place to keep the après-ski going into the night, it’s a vibrant and welcoming destination where good food, drinks and a buzzing atmosphere come together in the heart of the resort.
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.
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.
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.
Take the seven-minute ride on the funicular down to Bourg and enjoy an afternoon / evening strolling around and take part in one of the many events and activities they plan. Take a look at the schedule to see if there's something you'd enjoy, like a reindeer parade or ice sculpting to make the occasion fun for young and old alike. With the funicular running from Bourg Saint Maurice to Arc, 16:00 until 20:00, there is plenty of time for a festive evening sojourn to the valley.
This is a perfect way to discover the charm and serenity of the mountains away from the busy pistes.
This is a perfect way to discover the charm and serenity of the mountains away from the busy pistes.
A fantastic way to see the resort with your friends and family and a great way to entertain any non-skiers in your group.
For backcountry adventures, this independent company operates in and around the following three heliski destinations: Valgrisenche, The Courmayeur Valley and the Col de Petit St Bernard Pass. They have pioneered 32 drop zones within these three broad valley regions giving you a huge choice of terrain, snow conditions and mountain orientation to ensure you have a day best suited to your ability and preferences.
In Place de la Patinoire you will find the natural outdoor ice skating rink.
Learn the skills needed for Ski Joering in Les Arcs.
Skiing in all it forms at the snow front throughout the month and usually a torchlit descent from the ESF instructors and a drone show on some of the evenings. And don't forget it's Valentine's Day, so take your pick of the best table or if you're after some entertainment while you eat, many places will put on live music, or you could head out after your dinner.
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
Check out what's on when you're in resort, go along and enjoy the festivities.
The Fête de l'Edelweiss in Bourg St Maurice is a folkloric mountain festival celebrating this mountain flower.
Bastille Day is celebrated across the whole of France with a bang...well, several in fact, fireworks always feature heavily.
The Les Arcs Academy Festival takes place every summer and every year's event runs to a theme.
Join in or just come and watch this mountain bike relay race, where teams of two ride through the streets and obstacles of Bourg St Maurice.
Find out all about what is happening in Les Arcs and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in the valley. Plus, during the winter season, our famous snow reports and dump alerts all in the same place.
See allLatest News & ReviewsEach of the Les Arcs resorts holds a number of events throughout the year. International freestyle and freeride ski competitions, film festivals and snow & music parties take place in the ski area in the winter months, in addition to the usual après-ski parties featuring live bands and DJs. The summer, on the other hand, attracts a number of trail running and cycling competitions, as well as live concerts.
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