TL;DR
Les Arcs is set to introduce a high-speed gondola in Villaroger and open a zero carbon bistro for the 2026 season, alongside other developments aimed at enhancing the ski experience and addressing environmental concerns.
Les Arcs Invests in Infrastructure and Sustainability
Les Arcs – Bourg Saint Maurice is making significant moves for the 2026 season, headlined by a new high-performance gondola in Villaroger and the opening of a zero carbon bistro. These developments come as part of a broader push to enhance the resort's offerings while addressing climate change concerns – a balancing act many ski areas are attempting with varying degrees of success.
The centrepiece of Les Arcs' 2026 plans is a €19 million gondola replacing the Replat and Plan des Violettes chairlifts in Villaroger. This 10-seat lift will whisk skiers from 1200m to 2119m in 7 minutes, shaving about 10 minutes off the previous journey time. While improved lift infrastructure is always welcome, it's worth noting this represents a significant investment in a lower altitude area (Villaroger starts at 1200m) at a time when climate change is putting pressure on lower slopes.The resort is touting this as a way to 'rediscover' the Aiguille Rouge run – a 7km, 2000m vertical descent from 3226m down to Villaroger. It's a marketing-friendly angle, but experienced skiers know this run has always been accessible. The real benefit is faster uplift from the resort's lowest point, which could help distribute skier traffic more evenly across the mountain.On the sustainability front, Les Arcs is opening 'Chez FiFine', billed as a zero carbon bistro in Arc 1600. Located near the funicular top station, it's positioned for easy access from major cities. While the zero carbon claim needs scrutiny (especially regarding food sourcing and waste management), it's a step in the right direction for on-mountain dining.Other developments include a 'speed education run' in Arc 1800 – a concept that sounds useful in theory but will need careful implementation to avoid becoming a de facto racing strip. The Hostellerie du Petit Saint Bernard in Bourg Saint Maurice has also reopened after a 9-year closure and renovation, potentially adding some much-needed bed base at the resort's lower altitude.
