The Director of the 2 AlpsEric Bouchet spoke to us ahead of the start of the summer season.
How do you see the summer season in Les 2 Alpes?
The resort relies heavily on the summer season, which is an important period for the economy. Of course, it doesn't generate the same income as the winter season, but it complements it. The summer season has made its mark with a different clientele, attracted by various activities such as summer skiing, mountain biking and, increasingly, hiking and trail riding. And with the more contemplative activities, it creates a real balance.
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The resort's promise to be a "home of ride" comes true in summer. From the end of June, champions come to train in the mornings at the high-altitude resort and come down at midday, while mountain bikers go up, trailers run and hikers stroll around. The aim is to share a common passion for sporting excellence. All the facilities are accessible to as many people as possible, whatever their physical or technical level, without elitism.
And the resort can also count on some real ambassadors...
Mathieu Blanchard (Trail), Yannick Noel (Trail), Adrien Loron (MTB) and Isabeau Courdurier (MTB) are remarkable athletes with a very dynamic character. Locally, these champions have settled here and train in Les 2 Alpes on a daily basis. They are very popular and influential. They are a great source of pride for the resort.
What new features are expected?
The final year of work on Jandri 3S Express cable car marks the end of a cycle of renovation for all the infrastructure. The 3S will be up and running in early December. This summer will also see the launch of a well-structured range of trail activities, as well as hikes and discovery walks. Mountain biking activities are already well structured and have made the resort a success.
The entire park has been revamped, with a new swimming pool and reception facilities. Every year, there is continuous improvement with a view to achieving excellence. The aim is to develop an art of living to enjoy the resort, with a more contemplative, calm, quiet and restful approach.
What are the major advantages offered by Les 2 Alpes?
The figures show that enthusiasts come first and foremost for the activities, with the aim of doing as many of them as possible during their stay in Les 2 Alpes. Whether on their own, with family or friends, they come for the range of activities and facilities available, as well as for the signposted trails. Mountain biking is increasingly becoming their primary motivation. We get a lot of visitors during the school holidays, who are looking for a place where they can get a good night's sleep, with pleasant temperatures at night and warm temperatures during the day. They come looking for a breath of fresh air, activities to keep them fit, and a good night's sleep. The logic is based on contemplation and rejuvenation.
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You realise that the mountains, and Les 2 Alpes in particular, offer an unspoilt setting, away from the crowds. It's a little paradise, an oasis. Problems of safety, violence and incivility are rare. It's a very attractive place where people really come to relax, away from the urban atmosphere. Visitors here are able to sample the effort, even children, through 2-hour hikes, fostering family relationships. Young people aged between 25 and 35 are looking for small adventures, such as hiking, bivouacking and long mountain bike descents. They enjoy speed, risk, discovery and adventure, as part of a trek.
How is the resort structured so that it can live all year round?
There's a big community of seasonal workers every summer, which changes the rhythm of the season. Next year, we're heading for a long season running from 1 December to the end of August. In May, the resort doesn't close but remains open to a very diverse public, including competitors who come to train at altitude, on skis and mountain bikes. Enthusiasts come to spend time with friends and prefer to spend time with their families, making this a much longer season. With 9-month full-time contracts, the seasonal workers are stabilising and contributing to the local dynamism, making the resort a lively place all year round.
The aim is to provide a pleasant living environment. The town council is working hard to renovate many of the buildings and provide year-round residential accommodation. The key to maintaining year-round business is simple: you need a stable population. Unlike the villages in the valley, the resort is lucky enough to have between 2,500 and 3,000 year-round residents on the plateau, with shops, restaurants, a functioning cinema and a sports centre open all year round. In November, there's plenty of life, and that's what makes it so enjoyable.
What are the events not to be missed this summer in Les 2 Alpes?
Le Mountain Of Hell mountain bike is the traditional event to kick off the season. Entries are soaring, with a notable increase in participation from children, women and electric bike users. The event also includes a unique 75-strong evening concert under the stars, which promises to be a great atmosphere. The 'Défi de la Muzelle' is turning away so many people that demand is so high. The resort also hosts the European Mountain Bike Cup and the new 'Urban DH' mountain bike race, an incredible spectacle bringing together the world's top 30 riders. The whole resort, especially the upper part, is mobilised for these events, creating a dynamic and festive atmosphere.