Tucked into the pine forests above Bourg‑Saint‑Maurice, Arc 1600 is the original — and arguably the friendliest — of the Les Arcs villages. Sitting at 1,600 metres with sweeping views across the Haute‑Tarentaise valley towards Mont Blanc, it's a relaxed, tree‑lined resort that trades the bustle of the bigger stations for charm, sunshine and genuine ski‑in, ski‑out convenience. If you're after a laid‑back base with big‑mountain skiing on the doorstep, this is it.
Getting here couldn't be easier. The funicular railway whisks you from Bourg‑Saint‑Maurice straight into the heart of the village in around seven minutes, so you can travel by train from the UK or Ireland and be clicking into your skis without ever hiring a car. It's one of the most stress‑free transfers in the Alps — perfect for families and for anyone who'd rather start their holiday on the slopes than stuck in traffic.
From Arc 1600 you have the whole of the Paradiski area at your feet: over 425km of linked pistes spanning Les Arcs and La Plagne, connected by the Vanoise Express cable car. The gentle, tree‑lined runs right by the village are ideal for beginners and families finding their feet, while stronger skiers can climb towards the high bowls, the legendary descent from the Aiguille Rouge and some of the best off‑piste in the region. There's terrain here to keep every level of skier and boarder grinning all week.
Off the slopes, Arc 1600 keeps things easygoing. Sunny south‑facing terraces, a handful of welcoming bars and restaurants, and a calm, car‑free centre make it a great pick for couples and families who want to unwind rather than party into the small hours. Add excellent‑value accommodation and that unbeatable train‑and‑funicular access, and it's easy to see why Arc 1600 is such a firm favourite. Browse our latest Les Arcs 1600 ski holiday deals and book with DirectSki today.
Total Lifts 52
Total 200km
Prices From €46
Prices From €295
This 'Pass Classic' will give you access to the 200km of slopes at the Les Arcs/Peisey-Vallandry Ski Area.
Prices From €330
This 'Pass Essential' will give you access to the priority queues to the slopes of Les Arcs & La Plagne Ski Areas.
Prices based on 7 nights for 2 guests departing from Cork