In a departure from the conventional ski hill offer, the French resort of Les Arcs, part of the Paradiski region,has announced plans to open a sector of its slopes for more than 10 hours a day, seven days a week, all season long.
In addition to 'just' skiing and boarding, the area, to be known as "Mille 8" will feature a wide range of snow fun activities including a toboggan trail track (intriguingly slated to include video screens and a tunnel – details yet to be explained), snow sculptures, an enclosed and secure children's area and igloos.
In terms of ski and boarding facilities there'll be an illuminated discovery piste through the forest, a blue run for beginners, a freestyle fun course for all ability levels and a baby snowpark.
A new indoor/outdoor 3780m2 Aquafun Centre swimming and leisure complex with a view of Mont Blanc is part of the overall project, which is located above the largest Les Arcs village at 1800. It has an outdoor pool, covered fun pool with massaging jets, jacuzzis, waterfalls, caves, water games areas for children, wellness area and fitness area.
The whole area, which will also be open in summer under the same operational model with summer activities replacing the snow ones, is being seen as a major new investment for Les Arcs with a price tag of €36 million.
Most activities are included in the regular lift pass but the toboggan will be €8 (from 3.30 to 7.30pm) and a special night riding price option for using the facilities from 5pm to 7.30pm of €15 will also be an option.
The sector will be open until 7.30pm, seven days a week and a new gondola is being built to access it, that's scheduled for completion in 2015, but the new attractions will open at the start of the coming season in December, accessed initially by existing lifts.
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