Arc 1950 celebrates 20 years of mountain magic

When the first stone was laid to create a new resort in the heart of the French Alps Paradiski area, the world’s second largest ski area, Arc 1950 was way ahead of its time. The pioneering, innovative concept of a pedestrianised ski resort, entirely ski-in-ski-out, with harmonised architecture in an area chosen to limit its impact on the local nature but giving access to 425km of slopes, was considered cutting edge. As it reaches its 20^th anniversary, Arc 1950 in Savoie is now considered to be one of the most stunning ski villages in the world, and a ground-breaking model that’s inspired a slew of ski resorts.

Discover a snowy Paradise and family-friendly ski resort in the heart of the French Alps says Janine Marsh.

High altitude, snow sure

Arc 1950 is a standout ski resort for all powder hounds. The ‘1950’ represents the resort’s height of metres above sea level making it one of the highest ski villages in Europe. And that kind of altitude means snow cover at resort level is the norm from the start of the season in early December right through to the end of April. The slopes rise to 3250 metres above sea level, with permanently snow-covered peaks, and to make sure there’s plenty of quality snow, there’s an extensive snowmaking network in place.

You’ll find a vast range of winter activities from skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, heli-skiing, husky-riding, snow parks, toboggan runs and much more.

The pretty, low-rise village facing majestic Mont Blanc, wraps around a central, car-free plaza, with an off-shoot of the Baptiste Giabiconi blue piste running right through the middle. As a result, it offers almost instant access to the snow from every one of its eight ski in/out residences – all of which have a 5-Star rating. You can start skiing as soon as you’ve snapped your boot buckles shut!

Family friendly

The ski-in-ski-out residences are connected by path and piste in the car-free resort, creating a safe environment for families to walk in the snowy village streets. Two ski schools mean that all levels and ages are catered for. There’s free year-round entertainment for the whole family. In winter enjoy the ski shows, cookery workshops, concerts, illuminations and more. In summer there are organised games, tennis, workshops, shows, concerts and more. And at Christmas there’s a magical parade, fireworks, music, concerts, singing and dancing, the perfect way to end the year.

For Arc 1950’s 20^th birthday there will be even more entertainment including snow sculpture workshops, and the introduction of a biathlon and scooter race on the snow.

At this resort the service is a notch above the usual. They don’t just sort out rental equipment and ski passes, they can provide help with babysitters, children’s clubs and activities for hard-to-please teens. You can order shopping in advance, (there are plenty of shops), and have it delivered to your apartment, and even put away in the fridge – ready for your arrival and a brilliantly relaxing holiday right from the start.

Art de vivre and fabulous food

And if you want to eat out, you’ll find there are lots of lovely cafés and restaurants which are all ski to the door. Sit on a sunny terrace and soak up the glorious sights, chill in front of a crackling log fire, tuck into mountain specialities – the local favourite “Le Chausson du Boulanger” (a sort of Savoyard pie, made with cabbage, sour cream, Beaufort cheese and sausage) is a must. Although, you may never fit into your salopettes again!

There’s an authentic ‘village’ feel to Arc 1950 which gives it real charm, alongside loads of fantastic facilities. Indoor swimming pool, outdoor heated pool, hammam, sauna, Jacuzzi, even a thalassotherapy spa, this luxury resort offers the perfect way to unwind, relax and rejuvenate – and all of the eight residences in Arc have wellness areas and sports amenities worthy of one of France’s top luxury mountain resorts.

Eco conscious

Arc 1950’s eco credentials go way beyond the car-free approach. Quiet zones have been created to protect birds. The resort also practices recycling, and they are planning a composting project. Plus the resort holds a ‘Flocon Vert’ green label awarded for proactive sustainable development.

Easy access by train, plane or car

If you arrive by car, you can leave it in the underground car park and from here there is direct access to your accommodation. The nearest airport is Chambery, but Geneva, Lyon and Grenoble are also good choices. For those arriving in Bourg Saint Maurice by train and funicular railway, free shuttle buses run to Arc 1950.

Details: arc1950.com