The four resorts of Les Arcs are named according to the altitude - Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950 (the latest addition), and Arc 2000. Although purpose built, the style of the buildings blends in well with the landscape, due to the extensive use of wood. All resorts are pedestrianised and as with most purpose-built resorts, all the necessary services are nearby. The resorts are highly rated by snowboarders, which gives them a fashionable and friendly atmosphere.
Les Arcs is unique, in that it is linked directly via a funicular to a genuine French town - Bourg St Maurice (which has a main line train station). The funicular runs all day making it possible to get from the town to the resort (Arc 1600) in 10 minutes. Les Arcs does have a reputation for good value but Bourg is obviously far cheaper for accommodation, restaurants, bars and shopping than a ski resort.
Arc 1600, the original Arc, is the smallest of the three resorts. It’s predominantly French, more leisurely than its partners, and noted for its traditional family atmosphere and its picturesque woodland walks. The centre is small, but it still offers all the main amenities, including many cafés and terraces, a bar belonging to the Hotel La Cachette which has games machines, pool and live bands, and can get quite lively and a cinema. 1600 has quick and easy access to the town Bourg St Maurice.
Les Arcs 1800 is the real centre of the resort with its shopping arcades and 30+ bars and restaurants, a disco open till 4 most mornings, a bowling alley and a cinema. It provides the best nightlife of the three satellite resorts. Les Arcs 1800 overlooks the valley providing some superb views. Accommodation is mostly in apartments.
Arc 1950 is a brand new development started 2 years ago year, and which is due for completion in 2008; a complete new village is being built with over 8000 new beds, hotels, chalets, apartments shops and restaurants. In the meantime, the completed sectors are ready for use, offering great quality accommodation with doorstep-skiing.
Arc 2000 is located over the back of a ridge and is the quietest of the three resorts. It is barely more than a few hotels, apartment blocks and a Club Med but has become, by virtue of its altitude, a haven for the serious skier as it gives direct access to the highest slopes (the Aiguille Rouge peaks at 3250m).
The Skiing: Les Arcs has reliable snow and skiing for all ages and levels. For those who like to challenge themselves Les Arcs 2000 is best where there is an 11 mile long black run descending a ridge along the Aiguille Rouge and a 77% gradient track for speed skiing 'Kilometre Lance' (used for 1992 Olympics). Beginners and intermediates will enjoy a variety of terrain. The resorts are also incredibly popular with snowboarders. They are well equipped with boarder parks and half-pipes, boarder-friendly lifts and hold regular festivals and competitions. There are specialist board schools and shops and Arc 2000 and Vallandry have great smooth runs for beginners and carvers.
| Comments |
|
Powered by !JoomlaComment 3.12