Bourg Saint Maurice – Ski village with Roman roots Bourg Saint Maurice (850 m)

Aqueducts, old bridges and temple ruins, the origin of the ski village Bourg Saint Maurice can still be recognised today. The history of the present day winter sport resort at the foot of the skiing region Les Arcs began as a Roman settlement. The ski resort at 850 metres elevation was ultimately the small 15th century town of Saint Maurice, and thus received its name. The numerous mediaeval buildings, churches, castles and cloisters in and around Bourg Saint Maurice are further evidence of the history of the valley resort of Les Arcs, and give the village a particular charm to the place.

The friendly mountain village is at the same time the gateway to an enormous piste area. The ski holidaymaker can reach Les Arcs 1600 in only 7 minutes from Bourg Saint Maurice using a modern mountain railway. From there, either the entire range of pistes in Le Arcs or a one of the largest skiing regions in France - Paradiski - is available to you.

Ski holidaymakers, who concentrate of the network of pistes of Les Arcs, can choose between over 100 slopes. Around 60 lifts bring winter sports people from the four high stations Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950 and Arc 2000 to each of the desired points in the skiing region. Additionally, the individual stations are connected by shuttle buses.

Direct connection with the XXL skiing region

For beginners there are a total of three generously sized practice areas right at the ski resorts, in which they can improve their piste assurance, safely and in their own area. The skiing region of Les Arcs also offers a real challenge for experiences skiers, especially the slopes at high elevation and the numerous powder snow pistes. In particular, real professional should not miss the black pistes and freeride area below the Aiguille Rouge peak. Additionally, there are a total of 3 slalom courses in the whole skiing region.

A unique highlight, in the true sense of the word, of the Les Arcs skiing region is only recommended, however, to skiers with good nerves. Any volunteer can participate in the yearly high-speed race on the High Speed Course over Arc 2000. In order to reach the bottom and receive a certificate, only the 76 % steep slope must be completed, which corresponds to the speed class Kilomètre Lancé (KL). The most up to date of the numerous world records that was achieved on the speed course of Les Arcs is over 250 kilometres / hour.

Boarders can left off steam in the freestyle park between Arc 1600 and Arc 1800, and the boardercross course at Col de la Chal peak. Here at 2,600 metres elevation, there also begins a 3 kilometre long toboggan run in the so-called Rodeo Park, which also promises a real speed thrill.

To enjoy the beautiful landscape immediately surrounding Bourg Saint Maurice on skis, here 15 cross-country kilometres are waiting for fans of the Nordic discipline. Additionally, 3 further routes can be found in the areas of the high altitude ski resorts.

Finally, ski holidaymakers, who wish for even greater choice in pistes, are also catered for. Since 2003, the skiing region of Les Arcs has been directly connected with the piste area of La Plagne, via the neighbouring high altitude ski resorts of Peisey/Vallandry, and thus forming the XXL skiing region Paradiski. The double-decker gondola, Vanoise Express, brings winter sports people straight from Vallandry to the ski resort Les Coches, and from there they can travel directly with a lift to La Plagne.

Bathing paradise included

With regards to off-piste leisure activities, Bourg Saint Maurice also has a lot to offer its guests. The picturesque surroundings round about Bourg Saint Maurice can by enjoyed perfectly on winter rides and snowshoe hikes, or trips with snowmobiles and skijoring rides. Whoever is looking for more adventure should not miss a paraglider flight and an ice-climb.

For relaxation, there is a large bathing centre in Bourg Saint Maurice. In a 25-metre pool, you can swim your lengths and then relax in the sauna. Entrance is free with a 6-day ski pass for Les Arcs or Paradiski.

As far as après ski goes, ski holidaymakers in Bourg Saint Maurice also get their fill and can end the day in the numerous restaurants, bars, in the disco or in the cinema.