Any ski enthusiast will know the importance of selecting the right base so that you can maximise time shredding the slopes and finding the best powder. I highly recommend Bourg Saint Maurice as a base camp; this fun and lively town in the Tarentaise Valley, which is world-famous with winter sports enthusiasts, puts you in the heart of the French Alps.
In addition to the cool atmosphere, cultural events and bustling town centre, you are surrounded by skiing areas that are both varied and fantastic. 7 minutes on the funicular and you will arrive at Les Arcs’ four resorts and the legendary Paradiski region – the largest ski area in the entire world!
Check out our handy guide to Paradiski here!
Les Arcs
Les Arcs is a key part of the Paradiski region and somewhere that any experienced skier will love with 200km of pistes and 18 thrilling black slopes. It is comprised of four resorts; 1600, 1800, 1950 and 2000, with 1600 being the key area with dozens of shops, restaurants, bars and accommodation. The funicular arrives at Les Arcs 1600 and runs every 20 minutes from 07:30 until 20:00 Monday to Thursday and until 21:00 Friday to Sunday. All the runs are accessible by cable car or lift.
For those seeking adrenaline-pumping action, you absolutely have to check out the exhilarating and challenging black run from the Aiguille Rouge at 3326m down to Villaroger. This epic run features a descent of 2000m and is over 7km long – be warned, jelly legs are sure to follow!
Experts will also be happy to hear that Les Arcs also has plenty of off-piste terrain to conquer. Brave skiers will also want to try test runs on the famous flying kilometre speed skiing course, which you can do for a small fee.
Paradiski
The entire Paradiski region features an astonishing 425km of pistes – you will certainly be spoilt for choice here each day! This includes 37 black slopes, 77 red slopes and 2 snowparks that any experienced skier will get a real kick out of. The entire region is linked by the fantastic Vanoise Express, which is the largest cable car in the world. It has an impressive two-level panoramic modern cabin that traverses the massifs of each resort in just 4 minutes.
You also benefit from amazing ski conditions from December to April – this is due to 70% of the runs being over 2000m and one of the planet’s greatest modern artificial snow systems. With such easy access to superb conditions, you are sure to have an amazing skiing experience here and return home with many brilliant stories to tell your mates.
Affordability
Another reason to choose Bourg Saint Maurice as your base is that it can be a lot more affordable than other places around Les Arcs. There are dozens of cheap and cheerful hotels, apartments and chalets available (see below for a few recommendations), plus going out to eat here is very affordable. If you are on a budget for your holiday or you simply want to save some cash, Bourg Saint Maurice is a great place to stay while still having access to some excellent skiing.
Bars, Restaurants and Shopping
Bourg Saint Maurice is a lively town that is packed full of cool bars, restaurants and shops.
The town centre features a selection of trendy bars, cosy pubs and lively nightclubs for those who like to party into the night. No matter what kind of evening you fancy, you will be able to find it on the streets here.
As mentioned, this is a good choice for those looking to save money as the food is much more affordable than the neighbouring areas. The town has many inviting restaurants to choose from, from places that serve up tantalising Savoyard cuisine to those offering burgers, pizzas and other quick and easy grub.
The picturesque streets are lined with a variety of shops, so you should be able to find everything you are looking for whether it is a new jumper, a present for a friend back home, a few supplies or equipment to rent.
How To Get There:
Fortunately, it can be quick, straightforward and affordable to get to Bourg Saint Maurice. You simply fly into Chambéry (CMF) airport from Gatwick, which takes roughly two hours – cheap flights can be easy to find with a little research.
Upon arrival at Chambéry, jump in a pre-booked Shuttle Direct transfer and you will reach Bourg Saint Maurice in a little over an hour. You can avoid the stress of public transportation and they can carry your gear for no additional charge if mentioned at the time of booking.
Where to Stay:
Arc 1800 Les Lauzieres – You can easily access the resorts without spending a fortune on accommodation when you check in to this property, which features a lounge area, kitchen and balcony. Although a budget option, it is surprisingly spacious and comfortable so it is a smart choice for those looking for some comfort in addition to having fast access to the slopes. Wi-Fi is free in the apartments.
Appart Hotel Prestige Eden – These affordable apartments contain everything you need for an enjoyable and comfortable stay, including a free Wi-Fi, a kitchenette (complete with dishwasher!), a private bathroom and parking. The accommodation also features a shared indoor pool. It is conveniently located only 6 minutes away from the Chantel ski lift, so you can easily get out and ski each and every day.
Ski Arcs 1800 Ruitor – You are a stone’s throw from a handful of ski lifts in these cheap apartments, so those that who come primarily to ski will be very happy with the location. The apartments themselves are actually very comfortable and well-equipped, with a kitchenette that features everything you need to cook up your own food each day (a great way to save money). There is also a pool, balcony, living area and incredible views of the mountain to enjoy.
About Shuttle Direct:
Eliminate the stress of onwards travel with a pre-booked Shuttle Direct transfer. As Europe’s leading transfer provider, Shuttle Direct guarantees affordable, reliable and stress-free travel between airports, hotels, train stations and other areas of interest.
Book your shared or private transfer today and their experienced team will handle the rest.
