An Introduction to Les Arcs/Peisey-Vallandry
Les Arcs/Peisey-Vallandry is a cornerstone of the vast Paradiski ski area in the French Alps, offering a diverse and extensive network of slopes for all abilities. The resort is composed of several distinct villages, each with its own character. The purpose-built, high-altitude resorts of Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950, and Arc 2000 provide convenient ski-in, ski-out access, while the more traditional villages of Peisey and Vallandry offer a charming, forested setting. The entire area is linked to its neighbour, La Plagne, via the impressive Vanoise Express double-decker cable car, forming one of the world’s largest ski domains.
The Skiing and Terrain
The local Les Arcs/Peisey-Vallandry ski area boasts 200 kilometres of marked pistes, served by a modern network of 52 lifts. The terrain offers a significant vertical drop of 2,026 metres, descending from the Aiguille Rouge glacier at 3,226 metres down to the village of Villaroger at 1,200 metres. This huge vertical allows for exceptionally long and varied runs, including the famous 7-kilometre Aiguille Rouge run that challenges even seasoned skiers.
The piste breakdown is exceptionally well-balanced, making it a versatile destination:
- Easy slopes: 104 km (Blues and Greens)
- Intermediate slopes: 70 km (Reds)
- Difficult slopes: 26 km (Blacks)
Beyond the marked trails, the high-altitude bowls and forested areas provide extensive and rewarding off-piste opportunities, particularly around the Aiguille Rouge summit and the Grand Col.
Who is Les Arcs/Peisey-Vallandry Best For?
With its varied terrain, Les Arcs/Peisey-Vallandry caters exceptionally well to a wide range of skiers and snowboarders.
Beginners
The resort is an excellent choice for those new to the sport. With over half the terrain classified as easy and dedicated ‘Ski Tranquille’ beginner zones at each village, novices have plenty of safe and gentle slopes to build their confidence before progressing to the longer, cruising blue runs.
Intermediates
Intermediate skiers will find a paradise here. The 70 kilometres of red runs combined with the extensive network of blues provide endless opportunities for exploration. The connections between the different villages are seamless, allowing for full-day ski journeys without repeating a run.
Advanced & Expert Skiers
While the 26 kilometres of black runs may seem modest, they include some genuinely challenging descents. The Aiguille Rouge is a must-do, and numerous other un-pisted but marked ‘Natur’ runs offer a safe taste of freeride terrain. The real draw for experts, however, is the vast and easily accessible high-altitude off-piste.
Ski Season and Snow Conditions
Thanks to its high altitude and the presence of the Aiguille Rouge glacier, Les Arcs/Peisey-Vallandry is one of the most snow-sure resorts in the Alps. The ski season typically runs from early December through to late April. The majority of the skiing takes place above 2,000 metres, ensuring excellent snow quality and coverage throughout the winter months, even late in the season.
Practical Information for Visitors
Getting to Les Arcs is straightforward. The nearest international airports are Chambéry, Grenoble, Geneva, and Lyon. The most convenient travel option is often the train to Bourg-Saint-Maurice, which sits at the bottom of the valley. From the station, a funicular railway whisks visitors directly up to Arc 1600 in just seven minutes, from where free shuttle buses connect to the other villages. A local day pass for the Les Arcs/Peisey-Vallandry area costs around €70, with options to upgrade to the full Paradiski pass for those wishing to explore La Plagne.
