A ski holiday expert has revealed her essential tips for a memorable winter getaway in the French Alps, following a family trip to the renowned resort of Les Arcs. Sarah White, a frequent skier, discovered breathtaking scenery and exhilarating activities that make this destination a standout choice.
A Snowy Welcome in the Alps
Arriving at Arc 1800, one of the five distinct villages within the Les Arcs ski region in southeast France, Sarah and her family were greeted by an incredible sight. A massive 4ft dump of snow had fallen overnight, transforming the area into a perfect winter scene straight from a film. While the extreme weather temporarily closed some ski lifts, it provided a serendipitous opportunity to explore the charming pedestrianised village centre, complete with a variety of restaurants, bars, and patisseries offering city-quality cakes.
Thrilling Adventures in Paradiski
Their accommodation at Pierre & Vacances Premium Résidence Le Roselend offered spectacular balcony views of Mont Blanc. A daily morning walk to the local bakery became a cherished ritual. Part of the vast Paradiski circuit, Arc 1800 provides access to Les Arcs' highest slope at 3,226m on the Aiguille Rouge mountain. With 70% of the ski area situated above 2,000m, excellent snow coverage is virtually guaranteed.
The summit offers more than just impressive panoramas. A new awareness area educates visitors on the evolution of the glacier, while the Varet panoramic terrace provides a stunning vantage point. For thrill-seekers, the Aiguille Rouge Zipline presents a heart-pounding, 1.8km descent from 2,680m. The aprés-ski scene is equally exciting, with the famous Folie Douce offering world-class cabaret, DJs, and a vibrant atmosphere where families are welcome.
Exploring Beyond Les Arcs
Les Arcs is just one half of the Paradiski area. Adventurous skiers can journey to the neighbouring resort of La Plagne. The trip involves skiing down to Peisey-Vallandry and connecting via the Vanoise Express, the world's largest double-decker cable car. This incredible feat of engineering carries 200 people at a time, 380m above the valley floor, with a glass floor option for the brave.
A crucial tip for any visitor is to download the Yuge app. This indispensable tool provides live GPS tracking, weather updates, and lift pass purchasing, saving valuable time and avoiding sore legs from searching for ticket offices.
Unwinding After a Day on the Slopes
After a full day of skiing and exploration, the family returned to Le Roselend to enjoy well-deserved afternoon tea with their morning bakery purchases. The residence's amenities, including an indoor pool, sauna, and hammam, provided perfect relaxation for tired muscles. Other notable activities in the Paradiski region include the Mountain Animals Museum, the First Track event for fresh corduroy, and the Aerolive open-sided gondola experience.
For those planning a visit, 2026 rates at Pierre & Vacances Premium Résidence Le Roselend start from £1,357 for a seven-night stay for five people.
