The Vanoise Express is the “one of a kind” cable car that links the ski areas of Les Arcs and La Plagne.
The Vanoise Express
Inaugurated in January 2004, the lift can carry 2,000 people per hour in its two huge double-decker cable cars.
Travelling at a world record speed of 45km/h, it takes less than four minutes to span the 2km between Plan Peisey (1,612m) and Les Coches (1,548m) and when it first opened, it was the biggest, longest and fastest cable car in the world!*
The final design of the lift was created from a set of demanding specifications that aimed to maximise capacity whilst causing the least impact on the surrounding environment. The designers, POMA, and the investors, SELALP (Societe d’Exploitation de la liaison Les Arcs La Plagne), opted for a link with no interim towers; stretching in a single span from one station to the other and therefore minimising the areas that required development. By using double-decker cabins, their volume is significantly reduced which consequently limits their impact on the natural surroundings. The aesthetics of the lift stations were also taken into consideration by POMA, and their resulting streamlined shape and larch cladded exteriors blend in well with the local surroundings.
Each car can hold a maximum of 200 people (over two levels) and they run independently of each other on two separate cables. This means that in the event of a technical hitch on one side, service can continue as normal on the other. The aerodynamic shape of the cabins and their dual-cable technology also ensures that they have good wind stability for a more comfortable journey. Customer surveys conducted at the end of its first winter revealed that, of the 400000 skiers that had used the lift, over 95% of them were delighted with the service provided, comfort and above all the views of the new installation.
In the summer, hikers, bikers and sightseers still flock to use the cable car; if only to enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding peaks or down into the Ponthurin valley, 380m below.
Costing €15 million, the Vanoise Express is the largest aerial lift of its kind ever built.
*The Canadian resort of Whistler's Peak2peak Gondola is the only one in the world that links two mountain peaks - the Whistler and Blackcombe mountains. In terms of distance between towers (3.03km) and height above the valley floor (446m) it's the biggest.
Vanoise Express – the stats
- opened: December 2003
- cost: €15 million
- designed by: POMA
- links: Plan Peisey (1,612m) in Les Arcs to Les Coches (1,548m) in La Plagne
- distance: 1,830m
- height: 380m above the valley floor
- cabins: two double-decker cable cars holding 200 people each
- capacity: 2,000 people per hour
- speed: 12.5 km/h
- journey time: four minutes
Hotels nearby
Hotels in Les Arcs
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Arc 1950 Premium Apartment Residence
5 star rated aparthotel in Les Arcs
Pierre & Vacances offers you a wonderful ski experience in Arc 1950 through our 8 top-of-the-range residences. A car free village, free from turmoil and nuisance, our residences are built of stone, timber and stone roofing slabs, inspiring desires and well-being while offering comfortable, spacious accommodation. Services include bars, restaurants, free internet connections, individual ski lockers, outdoor pool a fitness room and much, much more.
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Arc 1950 Le Village Residence
A concept-village that is unique in Europe
This 5-star concept village with "Green Key" accreditation offers ski-in/ski-out access, swimming pools overlooking the snow-capped mountains and a Deep Nature® Spa for families and skiers to enjoy! Fully pedestrianised, it offers a wide range of activities and spacious apartments.
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Aiguille Grive Chalet Hotel
Charming alpine retreat with fantastic restaurant and ski-in/ski-out access
This chic modern hotel is situated right next to the slopes, making it the ideal retreat where you can easily access the pistes.
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Le Belmont Apartment Residence
A four star apart-hotel in Les Arcs
Facing Mont Blanc, in the village of Charmettoger, the Pierre & Vacances Le Belmont Residence at Arc 1800 has been refurbished to a high standard, and offers an exceptional panoramic view and snow as far as the eye can see. It has an excellent position on the edge of the forest 500m from the centre of the resort, and 300m from the Les Villards shopping centre and ski lifts. Arc 1800 is a car-free resort.
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Le Roselend Apartment Residence Apartment
Fresh air and breathtaking views in Les Arcs
Located just 500m from the centre of Arc 1800, the Le Roselend premium residence boasts breathtaking views of Mont Blanc!
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Les Alpages de Chantel Premium Apartment Residence
A 3 star aparthotel in Les Arcs
Located on the hillside of the resort, in Les Arcs 1800, “Les Alpages de Chantel” residence offers a magnificent panorama overlooking the valley, and direct access to the skiing slopes. The two buildings in stone and wood, standing in a forest setting, provide a welcome and restful change of scenery. Home to newly upgraded apartments!
Things to do nearby
Things To Do in Les Arcs
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Rafting In The Alps
Half and full day white water rafting for all abilities from eight years-old
White water rafting is accessible to all who love the natural environment and who are in search of a bit of adventure. These excursions will leave you with some unforgettable memories.
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Snowshoeing
Half day guided snowshoeing walks suitable for all ages and abilities
This is a perfect way to discover the charm and serenity of the mountains away from the busy pistes.
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Village Igloo Aperitif & Dinner
Traditional fondue dinner in an Igloo, suitable for all the family
A dining experience like no other! A spectacular and unique 180m2 ice grotto, bar, restaurant and mini hotel in Les Arcs, where you'll enjoy a typical Savoyard cheese fondue or aperitif in a unique setting.
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Mille8 aquatic and fitness centre
Swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms and relaxation areas
This huge 3800m² centre incorporates an outdoor and indoor swimming pool, water jets, bubble beds, massage jets, fitness room with gym and cardio equipment, spa with two steam rooms and two saunas, relaxation room and showers.
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Hydrospeeding
Half-day white water swimming/hydrospeeding. This is fast, fun and unforgettable
This activity is accessible to those comfortable in water, no need to be a professional diver or swimmer, you just have to be smart at using the water movements, obstacles and waves.
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Heliskiing/boarding
Heliskiing/boarding trip in Valgrisenche, The Courmayeur Valley and the Col de Petit St Bernard Pass.
For backcountry adventures, this independent company operates in and around the following three heliski destinations: Valgrisenche, The Courmayeur Valley and the Col de Petit St Bernard Pass. They have pioneered 32 drop zones within these three broad valley regions giving you a huge choice of terrain, snow conditions and mountain orientation to ensure you have a day best suited to your ability and preferences.
Restaurants nearby
Restaurants in Les Arcs
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La Folie Douce - La Fruitière Restaurant
Contemporary cuisine in a trendy setting at the famous La Folie Douce
Located at the top of the Villards gondola in Arc 1800, within the celebrated La Folie Douce après-ski and gourmet hotspot, La Fruitière serves delicious modern dishes based on traditional flavours.
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Aiguille Grive Restaurant
A vibrant and stylish piste-side restaurant with great service and even better food
This chic piste-side restaurant is situated just above Les Arc 1800, close to the Chamettoger chairlift and accessible via road or on foot from the resort centre.
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La Folie Douce - Le Butcher Restaurant
Stop by for a bite to eat at La Folie Douce located at the top of the Villards gondola
Le Butcher at La Folie Douce in Les Arcs serves up quick, tasty burgers, sandwiches and snacks right on the slopes. Ideal for a speedy lunch before heading back to the ski runs or joining the lively party on the terrace, it caters to both eat-in and takeaway guests. With its energetic atmosphere and prime location, Le Butcher is a favourite spot to enjoy good food while soaking up the buzz of one of Les Arcs’ most vibrant après-ski destinations.
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La Folie Douce - La Petite Cuisine Restaurant
Canteen-style restaurant in the famous La Folie Douce mountain hotspot
La Petite Cuisine is La Folie Douce's gourmet-quality, canteen-style restaurant. They serve a perfect mix of high-class local cuisine in a friendly, family atmosphere.
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Le Chalet du Friolin Restaurant
Auberge and mountain restaurant located between the ski areas of La Plagne and Les Arcs at an altitude of 1,800m
You can dine on the sun terrace with fantastic views of the mountains or in the warm and cosy dining room with log fireplace.
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Wood Bear café
A small café-restaurant in Les Arcs 1950 with a varied menu including gluten-free dishes
Divided into two levels, this small café is a great place to enjoy a hot drink with a snack or a larger lunch.
Nightlife nearby
Bars & Clubs in Les Arcs
See all Bars & Clubs in Les Arcs-
La Folie Douce
Accessible on foot and skis via the Gondola des Villards, La Folie Douce offers it's classic apres-ski party in Paradiski
High in the mountains above Les Arcs, La Folie Douce brings its legendary energy to the slopes, transforming every afternoon into a spectacular celebration. Known for its vibrant mix of music, dance, and performance, this iconic après-ski venue is where the mountain meets the party in true Folie Douce style.
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Le 2134 Rooftop Bar
Panoramic rooftop views with high-end local produce
Le 2134 Rooftop Bar is the go-to spot in Arc 2000, offering one of the most impressive panoramic views in the resort. Set above the rooftops, its spacious terrace looks out over the surrounding peaks, creating a breathtaking backdrop for relaxed afternoons and memorable evenings in the mountains.
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Mojo Bar
Après-ski bar near the lifts in Vallandry with great cocktails and happy hour every day
Right in the heart of Vallandry, Mojo Bar is, as the English say, the place to be! Easily accessible on foot, it’s the perfect spot for anyone who loves a lively après-ski and long, festive evenings.
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Mont Blanc Bar and Restaurant
Bar and restaurant at the foot of the pistes with regular live music in the evenings
Perfectly situated opposite the Grizzly Lift in Vallandry, Bar Mont Blanc is a true Les Arcs legend. Famous for its lively atmosphere and unbeatable mountain views, it’s a favourite meeting spot for skiers, snowboarders and mountain enthusiasts. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink between runs, catching up with friends, or simply soaking up the scenery, Bar Mont Blanc offers a welcoming, energetic setting that captures the spirit of the mountains and the fun of après-ski life.
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Benji's Pub Restaurant
Piste-side restaurant serving steaks, Tex-Mex, burgers, beers and cocktails with a large sunny terrace
Benji’s in Les Arcs 1800 is a lively, no-nonsense spot serving Tex-Mex dishes, juicy steaks and hearty burgers right by the piste. Its sunny terrace is ideal for a relaxed lunch or a refreshing après-ski drink while soaking up the mountain views. With generous portions, a welcoming pub-style atmosphere and a convenient location, Benji’s is a favourite for skiers and snowboarders looking for satisfying food, good drinks and a fun, relaxed vibe in the heart of the resort.
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Chalet de Luigi Bar
Restaurant, bar and nightclub all in one venue with a large south-facing balcony
Perched at an altitude of nineteen hundred and fifty metres in the heart of Les Arcs 1950, Chalet de Luigi is both a bar and restaurant - a true must-visit in the resort. This cosy Savoyard chalet, with its large south-facing terrace of four hundred square metres, sits right next to the Marmottes slope, making it a perfect meeting point for skiers in winter and walkers or hikers in summer.
Sights nearby
Sights in Les Arcs
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Grotte de Glace Ice Caves
Explore the ice caves & wonderful carved ice sculptures
Situated at the top of the Transarc gondola in Arc 2000, the “Grotte de Glace” is quite an extraordinary place to visit. Dozens of sculptors from all over Europe spend a week here at the start of each season, carving wonderfully exotic figures out of the snow and ice.
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Maison de la Pomme
Museum including a mill and workshop for pressing apples
Exhibits and short films about pressing apples in the Savoie region which includes information about experiments conducted to see how to preserve the juice.
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Vanoise National Park
The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the Tarentaise region
The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the Tarentaise region.
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Minerals and Fauna of the Alps Museum
Wildlife and mineral collections
Alpine collection of minerals from around Bourg St Maurice and Mont Blanc and slideshows on the wildlife of the Alps.































