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Les Arcs 1600, 1800, 1950 or 2000? How to Choose Your Base
Planning a ski trip to Les Arcs? Don’t make the rookie mistake of assuming it’s one single village. Les Arcs is actually a collection of purpose-built ski-in/ski-out resorts spread along the mountainside, each with its own altitude, style, and strengths.
Some are great for families. Some are made for après-ski. Some offer luxury. Others offer altitude and access to deep powder. And if you don’t know the difference before booking you might find yourself far from the vibe or terrain you were looking for.
Here’s a clear, honest breakdown of Les Arcs’ four main bases and how to get to each of them from Geneva Airport without the usual confusion.
Arc 1600: The Quiet Original
Arc 1600 was the first village built in the Les Arcs resort back in the 1960s and it still holds its own charm today. With mid-century alpine architecture, easy access to the slopes, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s ideal for those who want to ski hard by day and relax by night.
It’s also a favourite for families and weekenders, thanks to its practical layout and direct funicular connection from Bourg-Saint-Maurice train station, one of the easiest public transport links in the Alps.
What to expect:
- Peaceful nights and quiet mornings with no booming après-ski scene
- Fast slope access, but fewer bars and restaurants than higher-up villages
- A shorter transfer time if arriving by train + funicular combo
Perfect for:
- Families with kids
- Skiers on a short trip
- Anyone who values simplicity and proximity over luxury
Arc 1800: Lively, Central, and Full of Options
If you’re after energy, entertainment, and easy access to the ski area, Arc 1800 might be your match. It’s the most dynamic and sociable of all the Les Arcs villages - a true hub for après-ski, shopping, and dining, without sacrificing terrain access.
Split into several mini-districts (like Charvet and Villards), Arc 1800 has a broad mix of accommodation styles, from budget apartments to stylish lodges. It’s also right in the heart of the resort, making it easy to ski across the whole Les Arcs–Peisey–Vallandry area and beyond into La Plagne.
What to expect:
- Bustling après-ski, bars, and restaurants
- Good lift access in multiple directions
- Plenty of rentals, ski schools, and services on your doorstep
Perfect for:
- Groups of friends
- Sociable couples
- Intermediates who want to explore
Arc 1950: Fairytale Feels and Ski-in/Ski-out Convenience
Built in the early 2000s as a purpose-designed, pedestrian-only village, Arc 1950 offers a rare combination in the Alps: authentic charm, modern convenience, and true ski-in/ski-out access.
Every building here fits the same alpine aesthetic with timbered façades, cobbled squares, and twinkling lights in the evening. Despite the luxury look and feel, the village is surprisingly family-friendly, with plenty of space to roam safely and direct access to wide intermediate pistes.
What to expect:
- Premium accommodation with wellness spas and heated pools
- Ski-in/ski-out lodgings no matter where you stay
- A compact, walkable village with a boutique atmosphere
Perfect for:
- Families who want convenience without compromise
- Couples seeking a romantic, high-end base
- Anyone who prefers car-free, stress-free holiday settings
Arc 2000: High Altitude, Hardcore Skiing
Perched at the highest elevation of all the Les Arcs villages, Arc 2000 is the place for serious skiers and snowboarders who want maximum access to snow-sure slopes and steep terrain.
It sits directly beneath the Aiguille Rouge glacier (3226m), offering the most reliable snow conditions and quick access to black runs, off-piste zones, and high-speed lifts. The vibe here is more focused on skiing than shopping, expect fewer frills and more thrills.
What to expect:
- Snow reliability all season long
- Quick access to glacier skiing and advanced terrain
- A quieter, no-frills atmosphere with fewer shops and après-ski spots
Perfect for:
- Advanced skiers and powder chasers
- Mixed groups staying close to 1950 but wanting steeper options
- Visitors who value first tracks over fine dining
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Getting to the Arcs from Geneva: What You Need to Know
Les Arcs is accessible, but only if you plan your route properly. While the resort may feel remote and peaceful, it’s actually well-connected to Geneva Airport, especially with the right transfer.
Transfer time:
Expect 2.5 to 3.5 hours from Geneva, depending on your destination village, traffic, and weather. Arc 1600 is the quickest to reach, while Arc 2000 being highest can take longer in snow conditions.
Transfer Options:
- Private Transfer: The simplest and most direct choice. A private vehicle can take you door to door, no matter which Arc village you’re staying in. Especially recommended for families, late arrivals, or anyone with lots of gear.
- Shared Shuttle: Budget-friendly, but check which Arc(s) it stops at. Most shared transfers serve Arc 1600 or Bourg-Saint-Maurice, meaning you may need to continue via funicular, taxi, or resort shuttle.
- Train + Funicular: Geneva to Bourg-Saint-Maurice by train, then up to Arc 1600 via the Les Arcs Express funicular. Scenic, yes, but potentially complicated with bulky luggage or tired kids.
Pro tip: No matter your route, know which village you’re heading to before you book, and double-check that your transport gets you there directly, especially in winter conditions.
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Luggage, Elevation & Timing Tips
Les Arcs is a high-altitude resort, and getting there isn’t always straightforward, especially if you’re arriving late or with a lot of gear. A few smart planning tips can make a big difference.
Know Your Altitude
Arc 1600 and 1800 sit lower on the mountain, with faster road access. Arc 1950 and 2000 are higher, and road conditions can be trickier after fresh snowfall especially on weekends or during peak weeks.
The higher the village, the longer the transfer and the more important it is to book something direct and reliable.
Arriving Late?
If your flight lands in Geneva after 18:00, you may be cutting it close to reach Arc 2000 the same evening, particularly if you’re relying on shared or public transport. In this case, a private transfer is your safest bet, as it allows flexible pickup times and direct delivery to your village.
Luggage, Kids, and Multiple Stops
Dragging skis, snowboards, and tired kids across different lift stations or resort shuttles is not ideal. If you’re staying in Arc 1950 or Arc 2000, skip the faff: book a transfer that gets you to your door.
Also, double-check your accommodation’s access point. Not all addresses in Les Arcs are accessible by road, especially in pedestrianized areas like Arc 1950. Make sure your driver knows where to drop you and where you’ll need to walk.
Pick the right Arc, plan your arrival smartly, and you’ll be skiing while others are still figuring out where the lift pass office is.
Want to get straight to the slopes? Let us handle the roads and book your private Geneva to Les Arcs transfer today.
