This pace of development continues in Les Arcs this winter.
When I first arrived in Les Arcs back in 2011, I remember thinking what a fantastic ski area it had, superb for teaching all levels of skier and yet offering an easy and quick progression for learners. I was slightly shocked however by some of the facilities which desperately needed modernising and bringing up to the standards of other high profile resorts I’d worked in like Zermatt and Verbier. This was France however and progress seemed slow the first couple of years.
Since 2013, there has been some huge changes, the ski domain has advanced rapidly, modernising the chairlifts, ski area and the facilities, as well as advancing it’s marketing and it’s communication. Les Arcs is now more widely known as one of the top destinations in France for the size and scope of its skiing and now it’s changing perceptions of it’s accommodation and off snow proposition with the addition of high end accommodation like the 5 star Taj-I-Mah in Arc 2000 and Edenarc in Arc 1800.
The modernising and refurbishment of the resort facilities continues with the new funicular station in Bourg Saint Maurice which will make a difference in comfort and convenience to travellers arriving on the Eurostar from the UK.
After 30 years of use, the iconic funicular carriages have been replaced with new modern ones improving the 7 minute journey from Bourg Saint Maurice to Les Arcs 1600. The new spacious carriages with huge glass viewing windows and roof offer incredible views over the Tarentaise valley.
Renovation of Aiguille Rouge lift station
The Aiguille Rouge lift station has been given a facelift, modernising it’s appearance and utilising renewable energy through its use of huge solar panels.
Les Arcs Beginner friendly Green Runs
Les Arcs is focussing on being more beginner friendly with the addition of green runs and helping to improve the learning journey for new skiers. New improvement areas in Arc 1800 are designed to make learning to ski easier. The ski area has thought up a new concept which offers an improvement path based on three areas;
FIRST SLIDES
This is located on the snow front in les Villards, it’s the ideal place to put on your skis and discover the first sensations of sliding. It’s use is free of charge.
FIRST TURNS
Take the les Villards telecabin to make your first turns at altitude with a view of Mont Blanc. This «First Turns» area is perfectly exposed and enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout the day.
FIRST RUN
Take your first run on the les Cabanes green piste : this green piste which winds through the forest offers a number of opportunities for stops along the way with cabins, viewing platforms and picnic huts and tables.
Accommodation
As well as the completion of the Edenarc project, the new location is the Base Camp Lodge in Bourg Saint Maurice. This brand new development has a range of accommodation for various budgets and offers a modern, stylish decor.
Many of the hotel practises are focused on minimising carbon footprint and are environmentally driven.
Within the Base Camp Lodge complex is the bar restaurant BC7, a new trendy spot offering excellent food along with weekly spots of live music and entertainment.
Also, the Hotel Mercure has been completed renovated and upgraded to a 4* star In Arc 1800. This will be a welcome addition and we’ve already had our first Mercurial clients book this season!
La Folie Douce
One of the most anticipated events of the forthcoming winter season is the opening of La Folie Douce in Les Arcs. On the opening day, 14th December La Folie Douce will go live in the Mille Huit site in Arc 1800. Those familiar with La Folie Douce in resort such as Val D’Isere will recognise it’s format.
“La fruitière“ is the sophisticated restaurant offering a gourmet dining experience.
”La petite cuisine“ offers excellent food in a self service format and “La butcher” is the snack bar. All are accessible on skis or via the Villard gondola lift from Les Arcs 1800.
La Folie Douce is known for it‘s famous cabaret and outdoor performances including trapeze artist however given the forecast this looks unlikely on the opening day.
La Folie Douce Les Arcs will be open every night until 7pm And Thursday until 8pm.
Bourg Saint Maurice “La Ronde”
Great news that “La Ronde” will be continuing and extending its route further along the Route des Arcs past Super U and up to the camp site.
AIM Snowsports
AIM Snowsports will be mainly JP by himself this winter. So book early when you can and we look forward to seeing you on the slopes!
JP will be sporting the original AIM Snowsports uniform this season, saving the planet one ski suit at a time!
Have a great Christmas and New Year everyone and enjoy your skiing!
The AIM Snowsports team