Les Arcs – An Icon Of Alpine Modernism And Architectural Heritage, Offers Winter Guided Architecture Tours For Skiers And Visitors

An icon of Alpine modernism, the resort of Les Arcs has fascinated visitors for over fifty years with its architecture and seamless integration into the landscape. Combining functional design, a humanist vision and respect for the mountains, each building tells a story. For visitors to Les Arcs this winter, guided tours offer a captivating insight into this architectural heritage shaped by pioneer Charlotte Perriand.

A UNIQUE HERITAGE TO (RE)DISCOVER

Listed as “Remarkable Contemporary Architecture” in 2016, the architecture of Les Arcs stands out for its clean lines, buildings embedded into the slope, and wooden façades that blend naturally into the mountain environment. Across the different villages of Les Arcs, a true lesson in urban planning emerges, where every detail was designed to preserve nature and encourage social interaction.

ARCHITECTURE, HUMANISM AND NATURE: THE SOUL OF LES ARCS

In Les Arcs, architecture engages with the mountain and those who inhabit it. Born from a desire to preserve the natural landscape, the resort embodies an architectural approach rooted in humility and respect for the mountains. Guided by Charlotte Perriand and Guy Rey-Millet, the team of architects designed buildings that integrate discreetly into the mountain, following its curves and contours. This visionary approach has made Les Arcs a model of Alpine architecture, where nature and innovation coexist in perfect harmony.

Faced with demanding topography and a harsh climate, the architects of Les Arcs transformed constraints into a source of creativity. By prioritising local materials and innovative technical solutions, they designed architecture that is sustainable, functional and perfectly integrated into the mountain environment.

The architecture of Les Arcs places people at the heart of its design. Conceived to be functional, welcoming and in harmony with nature, it encourages social interaction, comfort and respect for the landscape.

GUIDED TOURS TO UNDERSTAND THE SPIRIT OF LES ARCS

Throughout the winter season, guided tours are offered to allow visitors, architecture enthusiasts and the curious to delve into the history and philosophy of this project. The tours are led by Jean-Marie Chevronnet, a guide and lecturer who is as passionate as he is engaging. These guided walks invite participants to see buildings and perspectives differently, and to understand how the resort was conceived:

• Focus on architecture (Arc 1600) – discovery of the most beautiful photographic viewpoints in Les Arcs.
• Archi ski (Arc 1800 & Arc 1600) – a tour on skis to understand the concept of “building on the slope” that was favoured at Les Arcs.
• Les Arcs by night (Arc 1800) – a unique walk to discover the resort from a new perspective
•  Arc 1600 – an architectural laboratory - Arc 1600 is where a vast number of concepts were conceived: no overlooking neighbours, terraces opening onto the landscape...

An architecture that continues to inspire.

More than fifty years after its creation, the architecture of Les Arcs remains a global benchmark for professionals and enthusiasts alike. By combining aesthetics, innovation, and sustainability, the resort still embodies the same ambition: to inhabit the mountains without being dominated by them.

For more information: lesarcs.com/destination-darchitecture