Paradiski (Les Arcs – Peisey Vallendry – La Plagne)

The French ski area Paradiski is made up of the three resorts Les Arcs, La Plagne, and Peisey Vallandry. The 425 kilometres (264 miles) of slopes and 130 lifts at the Vanoise massive are all connected. Its terrain parks, off-piste areas, and runs for all skill levels make Pradiski a diverse wintersports region. Since the ski area boasts two glaciers, and 70 percent of its runs are above 2000 metres, snow is guaranteed until late April. The resorts are connected through the impressive double-deck Vanoise Express cable car. It takes wintersportsmen from Les Arcs/Peisey Vallandry to La Plagne or back in only four minutes.

You can start your ski day here right from your bed, as the slopes are basically at your doorstep - long access routes are passé. Furthermore, a special focus lies on family-friendliness, as shown, for instance, by the numerous care facilities and ski schools available.

Restaurants and bars where you can grab a bite to eat or a few drinks are available all along the slopes. Take a break at the top station of the gondola on Bellecôte for example. Here at the highest point of the ski resort, all meals are served with a unique view. La Grande Rochette is another great opportunity to stop and recharge.

All of the valley towns can be reached on valley runs. The longest of them is the red run going from Les Verdons to Champagny en Vanoise. It is 6 km (3.7 miles) long and features a vertical drop of 1,250 metres (4,101 ft).

The most challenging run of La Plagne, however, is the black Les Étroits. It starts at Le Biolley at 2,350 metres (7,710 ft) above sea level and overcomes a vertical drop of 550 metres (1,804 ft) over the course of 2 km (1.2 miles).

The fun doesn't end when you leave the slopes. One of many highlights is a visit at the ice cave. Home to numerous ice sculptures, it can be visited from mid-December to late April, between 10:00 and 15:00.

Adrenaline junkies might prefer a swift run in a bobsleigh. A maximum of four people can race down together in one bob. Children need to be at least 14 years old and 1.30 metres tall in order to be allowed to ride accompanied by their parents.

Climbing the ice tower is not for the faint-hearted either. Beginners, intermediates, and experfs find climbs of different inclines. If you'd rather take it slow, the region has romantic winter hiking trails or guided show-shoe tours and dog-sledding in store for you.

Le Code Bar is located right at the centre of Champagny en Vanoise. Enjoy a few drinks in good company or treat yourself to a yummy pizza.

If you're looking for excellent dinner and a nightcap, you should eat at Le Bouquetin in Champagny en Vanoise, and later check out their in-house bar.

In the ski towns you will find numerous restaurants that feature French-Alpine treats. Le Bouquetin in Champagny en Vanoise serves traditional Savoy cuisine made of local produce. Furthermore, the restaurant features a cosy terrace with an amazing panoramic view.

Another tip for friends of traditional cuisine: Les Rochers at the entrance to Champagny en Vanoise. Authentic Savoy specialities are served on a cosy terrace.

Paradiski is located about 120 kilometres (75 miles) north-east of Grenoble. During the winter, it can only be accessed via Albertville-Moutiers, as all the other passes are closed at that season. The mountain roads down to the valley towns of the ski resort are well built and easy to drive on.