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There you are at the summit, faced with innumerable white slopes to choose from – some that only look like real ones and are, in fact, sneaky off-piste routes that have been well used but still require a pretty good technical level. Even in the main resort you can encounter all sorts of obstacles when passing from the smooth open slopes to the covered woodland routes - watch out for roots, rocks and icy patches! Then there are the constantly changing snow and weather conditions to anticipate and plan for; predicting the weather accurately in the mountains is nearly impossible but you should always keep an eye on the in-resort weather reports posted around and plan your skiing accordingly.

Don’t be disheartened! The professionals are here to give you a hand in everything from your technique on the slopes to your choice of equipment. We know that it’s the tiny details like being extra comfy in your ski shoes or having your skis tightened to exactly the right setting for your level that will make a good day skiing into a great one.

Our approach to teaching is quite personalised and focuses on the individual to try and give them the best learning experience out on the slopes. The team is made up of the best of the best and we use a variety of techniques to try and transfer those skills to you. We go at your speed, listening to what you need and adapting the lessons so that everyone gets the most out of their time with us. Our goal is to give quality lessons based on clear teaching to establish a solid foundation with a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Maybe it’s your first time ever skiing or you’ve been a couple of times – if you’re just starting out, simple things like not being sure you can stop can be quite scary but there are no shortcuts! If you try to skip the early stages you might look like you can ski but things can quickly become dangerous if you don’t have the right reflexes. To give yourself the best chance of success you should trust an instructor to show you the ‘right’ way to do it.

Maybe you’ve been skiing for years but now it’s time for the kids to join you. Putting them into ski school takes the pressure off you as the teacher and then after each lesson you can enjoy skiing as a family so they can show you everything they learned that day. It’s wonderful (even if it might make you a bit jealous) to see how fast they improve and you will be so proud to see them get their medal at the end of the week. You might want to take a couple of lessons yourself at the beginning of the week to make sure they don’t show you up too soon!

Even if you have been skiing your whole life and feel like you couldn’t possibly get any better than you are now, supreme skier that you are…think again. There is always something new to try in skiing whether it’s a different technique, new terrain or a new type of skiing altogether. Why not try ski touring or off-piste skiing? If you’ve been coming to Les Arcs for years you can even book an instructor just to show you some spots you’ve never been to – our instructors know all the hidden gems of the mountain and will be happy to share them with you.

We’ve got so many different options to offer:
For children from 3 years old, teenagers and adults – we take all levels: Group lessons, private lessons, guiding. A couple of hours, half-days, whole-days, for one day, several days or all week – take your pick!

Group lessons are great for meeting new people and motivating each other to improve together throughout the week. Our "All Mountain and Freeride" courses are designed for teenagers to show skiing in all its forms: all terrain, all snow while teaching the young skiers a proper awareness and respect of the mountain environment.

Private lessons are definitely the best option for anyone looking to build up their confidence through 100% tailor-made lesson plans. An instructor just for you can give even the most nervous skier a great boost.

If you are skiing in a group and want a longer session to try some off-piste, a half-day or full-day private guide is ideal. It’s also a great option for those who want to improve their technique with friends or family.

We can offer: - Guided off-piste sessions with safety equipment included. Be the first ones down a freshly powdered slope away from the bustling main resort! - Guided sessions for people with reduced mobility or other disabilities so that everyone gets a chance to enjoy skiing.

Our seminars:
Fancy a taking a break with your colleagues? Our mountain-based seminars are a perfect way to bring the team closer together and give everyone a chance to blow off some steam. Our team will take care of everything and will offer you a varied programme of outings and activities. Pick and choose from all the options we offer, e.g. team building sessions, snowshoeing, biathlons, tobogganing, outdoor escape games, helicopter flights, dog sledding etc.

We’ll be waiting for you up in Arc 1800 to start your wonderful winter adventure - bookings can be made from 7th October 2020!

You’d better start paddling hard because for the start of this story we’ve got to get all the way to the U.S! It was in 1842 that John Charles Frémont, an American officer and explorer, decided to set off on an expedition down the Platte River (a tributary of the Missouri) with a chum called Day Horace. The two friends set to work building one of the first rafts made of rubber. It turned out to be an excellent idea that gave them a real edge going down the river. It was a slow start, however, and it took almost a century for news of these little vessels to spread over America and for their debut as leisure boats. At last in 1970 we got the first go down the Grand Canyon in a raft!

Rafting in France: 10 years later, rafting arrives in France and it didn’t waste any time getting over the jet-lag! With so many white-water nuts about here, it quickly spread to the hottest spots in the country. The Isère River was pivotal in the early development and honing of rafting as a sport. Jump to 1984, Arc Aventures in born! After bringing a boat over from the States, the team worked to introduce rafting to the public who became immediately infatuated. Thus it was here that the first groups of rafters got a taste for the sport and the sudden high demand wasn’t a problem as the Isère River is the only river in France that provides a steady flow and good water levels all through the summer months.  It was official, rafting was here to stay! 

Les Arcs and Bourg St Maurice, the epicenter. When you think about it, it's no surprise that rafting took off so fast in Bourg St Maurice as its unique location in the valley with a river that is practically made-for white water activities combine perfectly with the reputation of the Les Arcs, Bourg St Maurice area as the place for outdoor summer sports.  The summer rafting season brings people to Bourg St Maurice from all over and has also been great for tourism up in Les Arcs (the mountain resort directly above Bourg). Arc Aventures has always been at the heart of the action; organising many events like the Grand Prix de France de Raft, the Descente Infernale and the Raft des Entreprises Open. They are still remembered as great successes that had an explosive energy, mixing amateurs with professionals and the public with VIPs and celebrities! 
Rafting for the environment (not just for fun!) Our wonderful natural playground is very important to us and sometimes it needs a little maintenance to be at its best in this ever changing climate. Arc Aventures is always ready to lend a hand with the initiatives working to preserve the local flora and fauna. We think it’s important to share this information with the public to raise awareness about the current issues.  For many years, we have offered our boats, guides and equipment for the use of certain local teams (the S.I.S.A.R.C & A.P.T.V) so that they can monitor and maintain the riverbanks of the Isère and the surrounding areas. The team has also been assisting a botanist from Ameten in an investigation of the current environmental situation.

Closer to home (on the very stretch of river we use for rafting), we work together with local fishing societies, the EDF and the tourism offices to keep the fish that live in the Isère happy and healthy. The goal is to respect the natural reproduction cycles of the fish and keep the quieter nooks of the river clear for trout to shelter in, away from the hustle and bustle. It only takes a small daily effort from each of us to keep the local wildlife ticking over nicely. It goes without saying that Les Arcs and Bourg St Maurice are the hubs for outdoor sports and summer leisure activities. There is something for everyone! Not only is it one of the best spots in France for rafting, there is also Hydro-speed swimming, canyoning and kayak-rafting! Whatever happens you'll never have a dull moment on the Isère.  Coming to us for a holiday puts you at the heart of the action. We love to push the limits, be adventurous, scream, laugh, live! Don't worry if you've never been, all our activities are adapted for different ages and levels so that everyone can have an amazing time.

Want to come and have a go? We'll be waiting!

1: The full- white water experience in Bourg Saint Maurice

Day 1
Calling all young adventurers! We’ve got an extreme ride in store for you on the Isere River that twists and turns through our valley, get ready for big waves and prepare to get drenched!

Come with family, with friends or as a couple; you choose who you want in the boat but you should all be ready to give it everything you’ve got. In rafting, everyone has to pull their weight or risk ending up in the the river. You’ll have to paddle hard, follow your guide’s instructions to the letter and work as a team through the rushing waters. The rapids on the Isere can be quite a challenge but it’s worth it to see some of this region’s most beautiful nature spots.

From the river you can see a whole new side of the valley and discover some lovely hidden gems that are inaccessible by land. 

When you’ve conquered the river it’s off to the Base Camp Lodge just along from the Arc Aventures white water base (www.hotel-basecamplodge.com/fr/chambres.html) It’s the perfect spot to catch your breath and have a drink with your group to unwind after all your hard work.

The Base Camp Lodge is the newest landmark in Bourg Saint Maurice. It is has an authentic, timeless atmosphere (much like our mountains!) and is perfect for relaxing. With its bar, restaurant, and many planned events you’ll want for nothing.

The hotel has a wide range of rooms to choose from, each with its own unique character and exceptional views of the mountains. If you are more suited to community life you can always opt for the dormitory accommodation for a much livelier scene!

Day 2
The next morning, you might be feeling a bit achy! It’s completely normal so take your time over a hearty breakfast to regain your strength and then we’re off for another day of excitement.

For the second day of adventure we will be taking the white water activities up a level with Hydrospeed swimming and canyoning.

Hydrospeed swimming means leaving the safety of the rafts and facing the full force of the river head on. Don’t worry though we don’t just toss you in and hope for the best! You’ll be kitted out with an inflatable body board to protect your torso and fins to help you navigate the obstacles. You will be in the heart of the action with our trusty guides to show you the safest path along the river and with a little practice you’ll be playing in the whirlpools and counter currents in no time.

After a packed lunch in the picnic area, it’ll be on to the canyoning site a bit further down the valley.

Equipped with your neoprene wetsuit, harness, carabiners and helmet, you’re ready to go on an even bigger adventure; following the path of the rivers that have carved their way right through the rock of the mountains.

Canyoning is a very diverse sport full of adrenaline and lots of different challenges. You may start off wading through an innocent looking stream but when you come to the 10 metre waterfall a little further down you’ve got to decide:“Am I jumping it or abseiling down?”  A bit later you might come to a natural slide carved into the rock and you’ll need to decide if you’re taking the plunge or would rather the guide lowered you down by your harness. These moments are full of adrenaline and emotion but doing them as a team is a great experience. The scarier bits are broken up by plenty of calm moments; walking along the riverbed and swimming in the deeper pools not to mention gazing up at the gorgeous views all around you.

-> Here we are already at the end of our 2 day programme. As you can see, it’s an action packed time we’ve got in store for you. Extreme sports in the heart of the beautiful mountain valley: with thrills, serene moments of reflection and a jolly time for your group.

Don't wait any longer to book your visit to our river.

We offer the special package of these three activities at the special price of € 169 per person *

(* 1 X Full Raft Isère, 1 X Hydrospeed Swimming Discovery Isère, 1 X Canyon Discovery // Price does not include transport, accommodation or catering // Offer subject to conditions)

 

2: Multi-activity pack in Bourg St Maurice and Les Arcs
For this second package, you will be taken on a journey full of discovery, which will allow you to try several types of mountain activities between the town of Bourg Saint Maurice and Les Arcs. You’re in for a great time that will not fail to amaze you with the beauty of our landscapes and you’ll make many wonderful memories.

Day 1
White water Rafting and Hydro speed swimming

Nothing beats rafting to start off the day!

“PADDLE HARDER! … TO THE LEFT! … NO, THE OTHER LEFT! I MEANT AWAY FROM THE BOULDER”

Rafting is the best way to see all the features of the Isère River. The rapids, the calmly rippling waters and the winding paths are yours to explore and enjoy. After going down the river, a picnic at the Arc Aventures white water base is definitely in order as everyone, all that paddling builds quite the appetite.

We’re not done with the river yet though: Plouf! We dive back into the Isère for some Hydrospeed Swimming. Hang on tight to your body board and swim as hard as you can with the current to avoid obstacles and get to the calmer waters where you can let yourself float along without a care.

After your day in the river, we suggest a jump from 800m up to 1800m for the next step.

Have a wonderful dinner and spend the night in Arc 1800 courtesy of Julie at the l'Aiguille Grive Chalets-Hotel

At Julie’s you’ll be well fed and can relax and recharge your batteries in the cosy, comfortable surroundings. The hotel has many services to over, including concierges, room service and handy luggage storage. Guests can also enjoy the sauna and breakfast.

Day 2
Mont-Blanc Treetop Adventure Course

Day two and it’s time to take to the treetops! The adventure course is handily located in Arc 1800, only a short walk from the Aiguille Grive hotel and offers a fun challenging time for all. You can work your way up the many different levels of the course by striding along rope bridges, crossing monkey swings, wobbling over balancing beams, whizzing along zip wires and much more!

Don’t worry, we won’t let you fall! You’ll be fully kitted out with the necessary safety equipment and given a detailed briefing and demonstration that will allow you go through the course safely, overcoming all the obstacles.

Lunch at the Chalet Grillette(https://www.chaletgrillette.com/)

It's midday, and you’ll be getting a little peckish but we’ve got you covered!

A short cable car ride and quick walk will take you to the Chalet Grillette. It’s a family friendly restaurant offering simple, tasty, local food that you can enjoy out on the terrace with a great view of the Mont-blanc golf course and the surrounding mountain peaks.

Paragliding

To finish off with a bang, Arc Aventures will take you even higher with a tandem paragliding flight that mixes anadrenaline filled take off with the serenity of gliding weightlessly over the valley.

Experience for a moment what it’s like to be a bird drifting on the winds over beautiful countryside. The feeling of freedom and the rush as you’re lifted gently on the thermal air currents. Take in the majestic mountain ranges stretching away as far as the eye can see and the snow-capped peaks all around you (including, of course, the Mont-Blanc!)

We offer the special package of these four activities at the special price of € 240 per person *

(* 1 Integral Raft Isère, 1 Hydrospeed Swimming Discovery Isère, 1 Treetop Adventure Course, 1 Tandem Paragliding Discovery Flight // Price does not include transport, accommodation or catering // Offer subject to conditions)

Don’t hesitate to email or call us with any questions or to book.

See you soon!

In 1980, Arc 2000 had to find its place among the other ski resorts that were already filling with international superstars and create its own identity. Alain Gaimard, a mountain guide, having just been named Technical Director, had a dream to expand and develop the youngest of the Les Arcs villages. Being one of the largest resorts, it had huge potential for winter sports just waiting to be explored. In this new resort full of possibilities, Alain began testing…he tried monoskiing for two winters (hardly known in France at the time) and brought boards back from America. The Aiguille Rouge became the test lab and playground for snow sports enthusiasts.

 

When the experiments were over, he began getting his friends together for a new project, the likes of which had never been imagined in the Alps: a ski film. The film was ‘Ski Espace’; filmed in 1982 with a few talented young instructors from the resort: Régis Rolland, James Blanc, Jean-Yves Perry, Pierrot Beguin, Lino Ortuno, Jean-Michel Zucchi and Claudie Blanc. It was an instant hit and took the ski-world by storm. The instructors were completely at ease on monoskis as well as snowboards, an unheard-of concept. The only ones who came close were Alain Revel and Philippe Lecadre who monoskied at the Grands Montets in Chamonix and were described as being more like professional dancers than athletes. Both joined the team in Arc 2000 and the group was completed with the additions of Alain Didierjean and William Arnaud. Finally they could to begin filming the Apocalyse Snow saga. These were three short films shot between 1983 and 1985 that followed the story of Régis Rolland ‘the snowboard genius’ and his rider girlfriend as they race around the world hotly pursued by an evil band of monoskiers intent on stealing ‘the secret of the glide’. The film was effortlessly brilliant without taking itself too seriously, a revelation for the whole industry. It featured breath-taking scenery, staggering technical ability, crazy stunts, fearless heroes, evil villains, catastrophic summersaults, helicopters, avalanches, thrills, chills and loads of fun…a legend was born.

 

Last in the line was the very beautiful Canon Surf with Régis Rolland and Jean Nerva which rounded of the filming adventure in 1986.

 

Running the show behind the scenes of these films were Patrice Aubertel, Patrice Lafond, Laurent Chevallier who are also renowned for their exploits on the slopes of Les Arcs, Haute-Tarentaise, North America and Japan.

 

The films were shown throughout France and have been seen by every ski-fanatic. The films’ went way beyond the promotion of Arc 2000 and became a catalyst for innovation in skiing and snowboarding. The new movement had begun. Towards the end of the 80’s more than 20,000 snowboard and monoski enthusiasts were invading the resorts and the industry quickly jumped on the trend. Techniques were honed, methods were developed by the ESF and competitions sought a federal framework to follow, a whole new market had been created. Skiers were now far from being the only kings of the slopes.

 

Let's just say it, Arc 2000 and Apocalypse Team were at the heart of the monoski and snowboard movement with their films that enchanted the public and professionals alike. Their influence can still be felt here in France and around the world.

 

APOCALYPSE SNOW

  

By Alain Gaimard 

Mountain guide, Arc 2000’s first technical director in 1980 and co-creator of the film trilogy: Ski Espace, Apocalypse Snow and Canon Surf.

  

During the shooting of the five films that went on for five years, the Apocalypse team learned a lot. We grew together. The experience we gained from 1983 to 1987, from Ski Espace to Canon Surf with the three Apocalypse Snow films in the middle, changed everyone’s outlook. I was no exception. It was the constant discovery that motivated the team and enriched the experiences of the individuals. We progressed in our techniques while filming scenes that were often very difficult and sometimes even dangerous. The dedication of the group is what allowed us to succeed in filming the more challenging parts. We were also exploring the world of cinema which was completely foreign to us. We played around with different monoski and snowboard techniques to make original films. We created as a team, always pushing ourselves to keep innovating. We experimented with different ways of filming to best show off the technical side of the sports and came up with new techniques to create more interesting scenes. We wanted to show another side of skiing. Through the hard times of filming and the excitement and passion of creating something new, we were joined together by a fierce friendship. It was a wonderful time.

 

 

 

Apocalypse Snow, Ed. EPA Sports – 1986 

From the Apocalypse Snow team