© Les Arcs
What’s new this winter in Les Arcs
From the ski area to what's fresh in the resort
As winter begins to take hold in Les Arcs, take a look at what's new in town and on the slopes.
Early signs of snowfall here in The Alps are creating much excitement for the upcoming winter season. The ski industry here is raring to go and this winter looks like being an exceptionally busy one. Les Arcs ski area opens on the 10th December and ski passes are on sale.
Les Arcs commitment to reducing its carbon footprint
The goal is to achieve zero emissions by 2030. This winter alone will see a reduction of 83% by using HVO renewable fuel made from waste vegetable oils without palm oil as a substitute for diesel. This will be used for the heating of buildings, fuel for snow groomers and electricity for ski lifts and snow making etc.
Les Arcs' intention is to produce 25% of the resorts' electricity with recyclable energy by 2030 by adding photovoltaic panels to buildings and making hydroelectricity by using the artificial snow networks, the first hydropower project will launch in 2023.
Winter tyres
A reminder that from 1 November to 31 March you'll need to have winter tyres on your vehicle (M&S marking, or all weather (four season) tyres), OR at least snow chains or socks in the vehicle when driving in the mountain regions in France, following a law introduced in November 2021.
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On the slopes
New dedicated progressive ski area
There is a 'first rides' and a 'first turns' area with a drag lift, in Vallandry. You can also make your 'first runs' on the animated 'forêt de pitchouns' slope. Pedestrians and mountain bikers will be able to access these dedicated paths during the summer.
Magical views
The Vanoise Balcony has a south-facing terrace which offers incredible views over the Bellecôte chain and the Aiguille Rousse, and this year it's being enlarged. Located at the top of the 2300 chairlift in Peisey-Vallandry, simply pop your skis on and enjoy this corner of paradise.
Easier access
The second phase of the Transarc is due in December 2024, which will see the opening of the new Transarc gondola with modern 10 seat cabins and the ability to whisk skiers up to 2,600m in just 13 minutes. This structure will house photovoltaic panels to produce its own electricity to run this gondola.
Les Géantes de Malgovert
From December 2023, in the Arc 1600 forests, you'll see something new in the trees. A new area has been created to educate visitors about the wonders of the mountains. Find out about how high-altitude forests function, the special features of the ecosystem and the role the various animals play. Accessible from the Mont Blanc chairlift.
High altitude lumière show
Since last winter, the 500m² Varet télécabine garage in Arc 2000 becomes an illuminated spectacle in which visitors can wander, listen and gaze at the murals which dance around the seasons. And new for this winter, the Aiguille Rouge Illuminated Murals range of attractions are included in all passes. Access is from the summit of the Varet cable car.
Mountain Animals Museum
Head to the top of the Vallandry cable car in Peisey-Vallandry to enjoy free access to this museum entirely dedicated to mountain fauna. Meet more than 30 animal species, from wolves to deer, bears and hares. Educational and entertaining for all ages.
Paradiski Yuge
Launched in 2015, this app is a must have when you're visiting resort. Alongside checking how busy the lifts are in real time or uploading photos taken around the resort, this year there are new gaming functions where you can share your exploits, compare stats with your friends, win medals and climb the rankings. Download at your usual app store.
Travel
To promote travel by train and funicular and make this accessible for all, Bourg St Maurice has put in place a soft mobility policy which includes:
- reduced fares
- free travel on the funicular for all who travelled by train
- longer opening hours in the evening
Snow Train reboot
This direct rail service between London and the Tarentaise Valley has been relaunched (yes, again) for winter 2023/24 and renamed the Eurostar snow train.
The service will hopefully encourage British skiers to travel in an eco-friendly way, departing from London on a Saturday morning and returning Sunday morning. Watch out for package offers including rail travel.
Check out our guide on travelling to resort for more info.
Events
Take a look at the events calendar for a diverse range of activities from E-mountain biking on snow in the dark to Freeride qualifiers, night ski touring, slack lining, gay pride and music festivals. Find more details for these and other events in Les Arcs on our events calendar.
More inspiration...
Keen to know more? Then take a look at all that's new in Les Arcs for yourself... book your winter ski holiday now!
