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Looking for the best things to do in Les Arcs for kids? This family-friendly ski resort is packed with adventures both on and off the slopes, making it the perfect destination for children of all ages. From exciting Les Arcs kids ski schools to fun activities away from skiing, Les Arcs has plenty to keep little ones entertained while parents can enjoy their own time on the mountain. Whether you’re planning your first family ski holiday or returning for another snowy escape, here’s how to make your trip truly magical for the kids.
Childcare and Family-Friendly Holidays in Les Arcs
Family-friendly chalets with in-chalet childcare lets parents ski while children stay in familiar surroundings. With flexible hours to fit around ski school, nap times, or lazy mornings, it means children stay happy and relaxed while parents enjoy the mountains guilt-free.
Nici Hardy, Associate Director of VIP SKI, says:
“In Les Arcs specifically, families really value the range of gentle beginner areas, which provide a safe space for little skiers to build confidence. At our Bear Lodge hotel in Arc 1950, families particularly enjoy our children’s playroom, private cinema, and indoor pool – all perfect for entertaining little ones off the slopes. Our advice is to mix structured ski time with moments that feel like a holiday for everyone -whether that’s an early-afternoon family ski, a non-ski activity in the village, or simply downtime back at the chalet.”
Planning Tips: Where to Stay, Getting Around & Kid-Friendly Amenities in Les Arcs
When planning a family trip to Les Arcs, choosing the right village makes all the difference. Arc 1950 and Arc 2000 are popular with families thanks to their car-free streets, easy ski-in/ski-out access, and plenty of kid-friendly accommodation. Getting around is simple with free shuttle buses connecting the villages and the funicular linking Bourg-Saint-Maurice to Arc 1600 in minutes. You’ll also find essentials like childcare services, play areas, and family-friendly restaurants, ensuring parents can relax knowing the kids are well catered for.
Evening Fun for Kids in Les Arcs: Shows and Family-Friendly Nights
The fun doesn’t stop when the lifts close in Les Arcs. Families can enjoy evening shows, from lively music and entertainment in the village squares to magical torchlight descents that captivate kids of all ages. For something more relaxed, head to the local bowling alley or enjoy a family movie night at the cinema.
Many hotels and residences also offer games rooms and organised kids’ clubs in the evenings, giving little ones the chance to make new friends while parents enjoy some well-earned downtime. Whether you’re looking for high-energy activities or cosy nights in, there are plenty of ways to keep the whole family entertained after dark in Les Arcs.
Things to Do in Les Arcs for Kids in Winter
Ski Schools and First Turns
Les Arcs is renowned for its family-friendly ski terrain. Gentle slopes and expert instruction ensure young skiers feel confident from the start. At New Generation Ski School, lessons are specially designed for children, blending safety with fun. From our beginner children’s ski lessons all the way up to our ProRide team, we provide the opportunity for skiers of all ages and abilities to progress at their own pace. Book ahead in peak weeks.
Things to Do in Les Arcs When It Rains
Rainy days don’t have to spoil the fun in Les Arcs – in fact, they’re the perfect excuse to explore a different side of the resort. Kids can burn off energy at the indoor swimming pool or enjoy the play areas designed just for them. The resort also has a cinema for a cosy family movie day and bowling alleys that are always a hit with children and teens. If you’re after something a little more relaxing, try a family spa session where kids can splash around in warm pools while parents unwind. With so many indoor options, there are always fun things to do in Les Arcs for kids, even when the weather isn’t ideal.
Mille 8 (Arc 1800)
A family hotspot, Mille 8 combines toboggan runs, gentle ski zones, and play areas into one lively activity hub – ideal for both new skiers and energetic kids.
Off-Slope Fun in Les Arcs
Winter in Les Arcs goes far beyond skiing. Families can enjoy tobogganing, snowshoeing, igloo villages, sled-dog rides, yooners, and paragliding. Spots like Rodeo Park and Mille 8 are must-visits for high-energy fun and offer alternative things to do in Les Arcs for kids who don’t want to ski 24/7.
6 Alternative Things to Do in Les Arcs
- Patinoire Naturelle (Ice Rink) is a natural outdoor ice rink in Les Arcs 2000, ideal for a great day out with the family. Remember to bring your gloves—skate hire is available on site.
- Bowling Arc 2000: Perfect for bad weather days, the billiards, games room, and bowling are located in the centre of Les Arcs 2000. There is also free internet, snacks and drinks.
- Snowshoeing: Half-day guided walks suitable for all ages and abilities.
- Village Igloo Aperitif and Dinner: Fondue in an igloo. Suitable for families.
- Horse-drawn skiing: Available at Arc 1600 and Arc 1800. Short taster sessions work best for children.
- Le Coeur d’Or Cinema, Bourg Saint Maurice: 390-seat cinema at the bottom of the mountains.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Les Arcs in Summertime
Hero Pass and Hero Camp
In summer, the Hero Pass unlocks more than 30 attractions – from trampolines and mini golf, to zip lines and inflatable fun zones. Meanwhile, Hero Camp provides structured group adventures, available for a day or week.
High-Rope Courses and Water Slides
If you’re looking for things to do in Les Arcs for active children, check out the Aquatic Centre – Bourg Saint Maurice. Kids can climb, balance, and bounce on rope trails, cool off on water slides, and test their courage on climbing walls, all while surrounded by stunning Alpine views.
Mountain Bike Trails and Hiking
Les Arcs is perfect for families who love exploring by bike or on foot. Trails range from beginner-friendly to adventurous, ensuring everyone gets a taste of the mountains. Here is a helpful Guide on Mountain biking in Les Arcs.
Culture, Wildlife and Creative Fun
Beyond sports, Les Arcs offers circus-themed workshops, marmot spotting, cheese farm visits, and bustling local markets. A funicular ride down to Bourg-Saint-Maurice adds a cultural twist to any family holiday.
Les Arcs – A Great Family Holiday Destination
Whether you’re chasing powder in winter or sunshine in summer, Les Arcs delivers a well-rounded family holiday filled with adventure and discovery. In the colder months, kids can dive into ski lessons, try their hand at tobogganing, or enjoy hot chocolate after a day on the slopes, while parents carve out their own mountain time. Come summer, the mountains transform into a playground for hiking, biking, and zip lines, with gentle trails perfect for little explorers. Beyond the outdoor thrills, families can discover cultural workshops, explore local markets, or simply relax together with a quiet picnic while spotting marmots in the meadows. With so many things to do in Les Arcs for families, every season brings new opportunities to laugh, learn, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQs: Everything Parents Want to Know About Les Arcs with Children
What to do in Les Arcs if not skiing?
There are plenty of fun activities beyond the slopes. Families can go ice skating, swimming, bowling, or enjoy a movie at the cinema. Kids can also take part in cultural workshops, snow play areas, or even sledding adventures – proving there are lots of things to do in Les Arcs for kids even without skis on.
Is Les Arcs lively?
Yes, Les Arcs has a vibrant atmosphere with a great mix of family-friendly activities and lively après-ski options. While some areas are quieter and perfect for families with young children, villages like Arc 1800 offer more energy with events, shops, and entertainment.
What are Les Arcs known for?
Les Arcs is famous for its extensive ski area, stunning alpine views, and easy access via the funicular from Bourg-Saint-Maurice. It’s also known for being very family-friendly, with excellent ski schools, a wide range of kid-focused activities, and both winter and summer adventures.
How long does the Les Arcs funicular take?
The funicular ride from Bourg-Saint-Maurice up to Arc 1600 takes around 7 minutes. It’s a quick, scenic, and eco-friendly way to reach the resort, making it convenient for families traveling with kids.
Is Les Arcs a good ski resort for families with children?
Absolutely! Les Arcs is one of the best alpine resorts for families. With ski schools, childcare, gentle beginner slopes, and lots of off-slope activities, it’s easy to keep kids happy and entertained.
What can kids do in Les Arcs if they don’t ski?
Children can enjoy sledding, ice skating, indoor swimming, or even creative workshops. The resort also has cinemas and bowling alleys for family fun away from the snow.
Are there things to do in Les Arcs for kids in the summer?
Definitely! Summer in Les Arcs offers hiking, biking, zip-lining, and wildlife spotting. Families can also join summer camps or enjoy peaceful picnics in the mountains.
At what age can children start ski lessons in Les Arcs?
Most ski schools welcome children from the age of 3 for beginner lessons. For younger ones, there are snow play areas that introduce kids to the mountain environment in a fun and safe way
