Do you have the soul of a tireless explorer, always ready to push back your limits? In Les Arcs, summer is a huge playground for those who want to move, vibrate and marvel endlessly. Here's our selection of 5 must-do activities for a 100 % active holiday in the Haute Tarentaise.
1. Cycle touring: freewheeling in the mountains
Here, cycling is king, and all its disciplines have pride of place. Whether you're into downhill mountain biking, pump track, cycle touring or electric bikes, you'll find a route to suit you. Enjoy the changing panoramas around every bend, climb some of the Tour de France's legendary mountain passes, or go for a ride on the estate's safe cycle paths. An adventure on two wheels with a view of the summits.
Information, itineraries and hire : lesarcs.com
2. Paragliding: flying with the eagles
Fancy a little (or a lot) of height? Treat yourself to a first flight in a paraglider! Soar over the Alps, admiring the forests, mountain pastures and villages below, in soothing silence. Supervised by experienced instructors, the flight is accessible to all, summer and winter alike. A breathtaking sensation of absolute freedom.
Flights departing from Bourg Saint Maurice, Arc 1600 or Arc 1800 - Bookings on site or via lesarcs.com
3. Hiking: conquering the summits
With over 200km of signposted trails and a total vertical drop of 6,700m, Les Arcs is a hiker's paradise. Gentle family walks, interpretation trails or sporting challenges: there's something for everyone.
At dawn or dusk, it's a chance to observe the local wildlife, listen to the deer bellow in autumn or contemplate the alpine flowers in spring.
Maps and advice available from the Les Arcs / Bourg Saint Maurice Tourist Office
4. White water sports: take the plunge (and without restraint)
When the heat rises, head for the bubbling rivers of the Haute Tarentaise! Energetic paddle strokes in rafting, technical descents in canyoning, kayaking, hydrospeed or white-water swimming... thrills guaranteed from June onwards. A must? A sunset session to experience the mountains in a different way, between adrenalin and freshness.
Bookings at the Bourg Saint Maurice whitewater centres
5. Mini-golf: a 9-hole adventure!
Just a stone's throw from the Bourg Saint Maurice water sports centre, a brand new themed mini-golf course has opened its doors. Each hole illustrates one of the destination's outdoor activities: skiing, mountain biking, paragliding, rafting or climbing. It's fun, original and ideal for families or friends to make the day go a little more smoothly (or competitively!).
Bourg Saint Maurice miniature golf course - free access, equipment on site - lesarcs.com