Les Arcs – A Ski Holiday With Natural Escape
Les Arcs in France started with an idea to be a part of—not apart from—the surrounding alpine nature. Nearly five decades ago, Robert Blanc and Roger Godino convened together, designing the future (aesthetics, look and design) above Bourg St-Maurice—Blanc’s hometown. The construction of the first resort used the areas rocks, trees and natural products. The ones that seemingly shot up both higher and lower also stuck to this conservative yet organic building principle. A short bus from the airport in Grenoble (just 150 km away) or a direct bus or shuttle from the nearby railroad station provides those willing to venture here over 100 km of ski runs. The longest slope leaps above 3200 meters with a 7 km long downhill slope. The maximum drop is over 2020 meters. There is even night skiing, kept open late for night owls who enjoy a little quietude with their powder. All four types of lifts transport thousands per hour, but the whole Les Arcs, Peisey-Vallandry and La Plagne are skiable with the one Paradiski Skipass—six days for less than 250 Euros! Les Arcs skiing gives plenty of challenges and takes little money to do it.
Les Arcs Accommodation:
The newest hotels in Les Arcs do not necessarily use all the surrounding nature to build their resorts, but the ornamentation still sticks to Godino’s and Blanc’s concepts, particularly the rocky, earthy and woody feel. The cheaper two star lodges essentially give a bed and bathroom, while the four star hotels and chalets offer close access to slopes and to town and shopping. Luxury is no new concept to these resorts.