Whether you are taking your first foray beyond the piste markers, you are an experienced powder hound, or you want to try ski touring for the first time, this resort has a lot to offer.

Arêches-Beaufort is not just a ski resort – its an exciting base for ski touring, ski mountaineering and a host of other snow-related activities taking advantage of the pristine natural environment, the abundant snowfall and the easily accesible peaks which encircle the traditional mountain village.

The main nursery slopes are located up in the village of Le Planay, where the ‘Espace Première Trace’ (First Tracks) is a dedicated novice area which enjoys a good friendly atmosphere, in a sheltered Alpine setting. On your first day you can take a ski-bus to this area.

The equivalent area of Le Cuvy, above the village of Arêches, is where you will enjoy some great confidence-building, tree-lined runs, for when you’re ready to go to the next level.

The skiing below the Col de la Forclaz, whilst more exposed, has a good selection of blue runs for skiers looking to gain in confidence, having progressed beyond the nursery slopes.

For intermediate skiers, the varied selection of groomed pistes includes some surprisingly steep but wide runs on which to build fitness and confidence, along with enough gentler terrain lower down to entertain intermediates still looking to develop their turns.

Although only offering 50km of pistes – there is a good range of terrain, aspect and scenery from the different ski sectors, which makes the resort feel bigger than it is. With great views across to Mont Blanc and quiet pistes, you can really relax whilst skiing and enjoy the feeling of open space.

The resort also offers the intermediate skier a wonderful opportunity to experience the freedom of going back country, both downhill and uphill! The easily accessible off-piste terrain, along with the waymarked ski touring tracks, makes this the ideal resort for intermediate skiers looking to extend their skills on skis beyond the piste.

The resort is actively encouraging visitors to come and try ‘ski touring’ or ‘ski-randonee’ and they have easy options to rent the equipment (skis, skins and boots, avalanche kit etc), enjoy tater-sessions and you could easily head out on your own or of course you can always hire a guide.

On the mountain they have prepared way-marked trails for the climbing element (skinning up), and you can then either ski down the pistes, or venture into the recomended off-piste zones. For an experienced skier – it’s a whole new dimension waiting to be discovered.