Les 2 Alpes: Transformative Upgrades Redefine French Ski Resort for 2024-2025
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Les 2 Alpes Revolutionises Ski Experience with €135 Million Upgrade Les 2 Alpes is set to open its doors on November 30, 2024, revealing a €135 million transformation that promises to redefine the ski resort experience. At the heart of this ambitious project is the new Jandri 3S cable car, a technological marvel that represents the most significant development in the French Alps in the last decade.Since SATA Group-Aeon took over operations in 2020, Les 2 Alpes has embarked on a series of large-scale projects designed to secure the resort's future for the next 50 years. These include the Super Venosc gondola and three new telemix lifts: Diable, Vallée Blanche, and Belle Étoile. However, the Jandri 3S stands out as the crown jewel of these improvements.The Jandri 3S, replacing the 1985 Jandri Express, boasts impressive features:6.4 km length with only 7 pylons (compared to 17 for the old lift)1,480 meters of vertical climb55 cabins, each holding 32 people (24 seated, 8 standing)Maximum speed of 28.8 km/hourCapacity of 3,000 people per hourTravel time of just 17 minutes from 1,650m to 3,200mAbility to operate in high winds (up to 28 m/s)
The base station of the brand new lift. Credit: Les 2 Alpes Resort The project prioritises environmental responsibility. Karum, an environmental impact assessment company, provided recommendations to preserve biodiversity, water resources, and soil. The construction process involved careful soil management and re-grassing efforts. Energy efficiency is a key feature, with heat recovery systems and on-board intelligence in cabins.Accessibility is another focus, with cabins designed to accommodate people with reduced mobility, wheelchairs, and strollers. The new stations offer improved customer facilities, including airport-style sales areas, public toilets, and technical maintenance rooms.Other significant improvements include:A redesigned beginner area at the Front de NeigeRedevelopment of the Vallée Blanche area for better visitor distributionRenovation of the funicular connecting 3,100m to 3,400mNew panoramic terrace for the "3200" restaurantFuture development of facilities for ski federations and clubs at 3,200m
The new cabins which are huge and fit 32 passengers. Credit: Les 2 Alpes Resort The project has been a boon for the local economy, involving around 20 local and regional companies alongside the renowned French ski lift constructor POMA. At its peak, the construction mobilized up to 450 workers, with a dedicated living base set up at 2,600 meters.Fabrice Boutet, CEO of SATA Group-Aeon, emphasizes the project's comprehensive impact: "This project is a signature for the next 50 years! It integrates economic, social, and environmental dimensions, ensuring the wellbeing of locals while protecting the territory we live in."As Les 2 Alpes prepares to unveil these transformative changes, skiers and riders can look forward to a resort that combines cutting-edge technology, environmental stewardship, and an enhanced mountain experience. The 2024-2025 season promises to mark a new era for this iconic French ski destination.