La Plagne, France
Introduction
There are 10 resorts that compose the La Plagne boarding area, ranging from traditional villages to modern purpose-built high altitude resorts, some of which are horrible (such as Aime la Plagne, a great big apartment block). La Plagne is mainly suited to intermediate boarders as there is not that much steep terrain and only a few challenging runs.
There are some good wooded areas which can be a blessing in whiteouts, especially around the areas of Les Coches and Champagny en Vanoise. This resort is ideally suited to people who stick to the piste, with mile after mile of motorway cruising.
2003 saw the opening of the Vanoise Express cablecar which links La Plagne with Les Arcs, thereby creating the Paradski ski area and giving you access to 238 runs totalling 425km. Vertigo and claustrophobia sufferers should note the Vanoise Express is 2km long, holds 200 people, and there's 380m between you and the ground - so you may want to keep your eyes closed for the 4 minutes it takes.
With a pass for both La Plagne and Les Arc, there is a huge ski area in which to play, with more than enough for a good few days riding without retracing your tracks.
For example, get an early start at Plagne Centre, make your way across to Montchavin les Coches where you pick up the Vanoise Express. From Les Arc at the top, make your way up to the Aiguille Rouge at 3226m, with brilliant views of the surrounding mountains. Here you can see Mont Blanc in all its glory. With a long leg-burning run down to Villarodger at 1200m, a rest will definitely be needed. From here you begin your journey back to Plagne Centre, with a selection of open but challenging reds and some more relaxed fun blues all the way back. An excellent day of riding by anyone's standards.
New for season
05/06: Arpette chairlift increased to hold 8-people. Extra 250 acres of snowmaking. new Pro-park in centre of La Plagne.
04/05: 2 new 6 seater chairlifts at Bijolin and La Salla, increased snow making, and first phase of their electronic lift access plan.
Resort Statistics
Resort Type:
Alpine
Winter: Dec to April
Summer: None
Lifts
Total Lifts: 86
Cable cars: 2
Gondolas: 7
Chair lifts: 35
Drag lifts: 61
Other lifts: 2 magic carpets
Max people per hour: 120,899
Board Leashes required: Yes
Mountain
Total pistes/trails: 134
Total ride area: 225km
Longest run: 15km
Top lift: 3250m
Vertical drop: 2000m
First lift: 1250m
Piste suitability
Green runs: 67%
Red runs: 25%
Black runs: 8%
Lift Passes
Lift Passes:
1 Day pass 39 euros
2 Day pass 74 euros
6 Day pass 186 euros
Season pass 650 euros
Paradiski pass 6days ?205
Lift times:8.30am to 4.30pm
Snowfall
Average annual snowfall: 5.2m
Artificial snowmaking coverage: 95h%
Facilities
Night Riding: :
Yes
Snowboard Schools:
17 schools to take your pick from
Snowboard Hire:
Plenty of local shops to choose from
Heliboarding: :
Yes
Snowmobiles:
Yes

