Les Arcs (Villaroger)
Small, traditional French alpine village with backdoor access to the Paradiski ski domain
Villaroger resort guide - a general overview
Villaroger is the lowest of the ski villages that make up the Les Arcs ski area and it is also the most secluded of the accommodation centres. However, therein exists its charm. The village is pretty much untouched by commercial tourism and retains much of the original charm of the old alpine village that it once was, and in many ways, still is. There is no nightlife and the après ski scene is limited too but for keen skiers looking for a great value base from which to explore the excellent Les Arcs (and La Plagne) ski areas it is ideal. Most of the accommodation is at the base of the chairlift in the hamlet known as Le Pre. However, the old village of Villaroger is lower down the hill about 2km from the bottom of the 'home piste'.
The value of the accommodation and the unhurried, relaxed atmosphere make Villaroger a great choice for families as well as keen skiers looking to max out their time on the mountain. Children can wander around the small village without fear - it's impossible for them to get lost and no traffic to mention.
For powder hounds it's good to know that off piste conditions can remain in great condition here long after the bowls of Tignes, Val d'Isere and nearby Ste Foy have been well and truly tracked out. There is a legendary back mountain trail leading from the top of the Aiguille Rouge peak (well over 3,000m) which descends uninterrupted all the way down to Villaroger. This 20km route offers over 2,000 metres of vertical descent!
Resort stats
425km
1,200m - 3,225m
Level of skiing
- Beginners
- Intermediates
- Experts
- Snow sure
- Off-piste
- Ski area
Qualities
- Charm factor
- Non-skiers
- Nightlife
- Resort layout
- Fine dining
- Short transfer
- Resort value
Airports
- Chambery
- 2hrs 30mins
- Geneva
- 3hrs
- Lyon
- 3hrs
Pros and Cons
Pros
- A great value destination considering the huge, snow-sure ski area at your disposal
- Mainly East facing ski area keeps good conditions to the end of the season
- Easy access to the Aiguille Rouge mountain with its great off piste terrain
- Quiet village life makes Villaroger a great choice as a family ski holiday destination
Cons
- Those looking for nightlife will be disappointed as there isn't any
- No off slope diversions for non skiers
- Older chairlifts out of the village can be frustrating
Restaurants
Les Arcs (Villaroger) Mountain Restaurants
Like in most large ski areas there is plenty of choice. Although the mountain resaurants in Les Arcs can be quite unremarkable they are fine for a quick spot of lunch on the go and most have great views over the valley from their terraces. If you are after something a bit more flavoursome and charming, then it is best to head towards the lower villages. On the Vallandry side, a short taxi ride will bring you to the Ancolie, a traditional auberge with fantastic food, you will need to book ahead as it is quite small, or towards Le Pre, try the Belliou La Fumee at Pre-St-Esprit, The Ferme or the Aiguille Rouge are all friendly with very good food.
Les Arcs (Villaroger) Apres Ski
Not applicable
Les Arcs (Villaroger) Nightlife
Not applicable