Les Arcs Weather Today

Climate and Weather in Les Arcs, France

Les Arcs is a popular ski resort located in the Tarentaise Valley of the French Alps. It is known for its stunning mountain scenery, world-class skiing, and charming alpine villages. The climate in Les Arcs is influenced by its high elevation and proximity to the mountains, resulting in unique weather patterns throughout the year.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is the peak season in Les Arcs as it offers excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions. The weather during this time is cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F) in December and January. February tends to be a bit milder, with average temperatures around -3°C (27°F).

The resort receives a significant amount of snowfall during the winter months, with an average of 150cm to 200cm (59 inches to 79 inches) of snow accumulating each month. This provides for excellent ski conditions and ensures a long ski season from December to April.

It is important to note that Les Arcs is located at a higher altitude compared to some other ski resorts in the region, which means it may experience colder temperatures and more snowfall.

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Les Arcs brings milder temperatures and longer days. Average temperatures gradually increase during this period, ranging from -1°C (30°F) in March to 5°C (41°F) in May. As the winter snow begins to melt, it creates a fantastic opportunity for spring skiing on the higher slopes.

Although March can still have some snowfall, April and May are generally less snowy, and the resort starts to transition into a more vibrant spring atmosphere. The days become longer, allowing for more time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Les Arcs is a time of lush greenery and pleasant weather. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in June to 20°C (68°F) in August. The region experiences plenty of sunshine, with up to 8 hours of sunshine per day during the summer months.

Les Arcs offers a range of activities during the summer, including hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, and golfing. The surrounding mountains and valleys provide stunning scenery and a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.

The summer months also bring occasional rainfall, which helps to maintain the green landscapes and support the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Fall (September to November)

Fall in Les Arcs is characterized by cooler temperatures and changing colors as the leaves on the trees transform into vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. Average temperatures range from 9°C (48°F) in September to 1°C (34°F) in November.

September and October offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking. However, as November approaches, temperatures drop, and the first snowfalls of the season can be expected, marking the beginning of the upcoming winter season.

Weather Variations by Altitude

Les Arcs is a ski resort that spans across different altitudes, and the weather can vary depending on the elevation. The lower villages, such as Bourg-Saint-Maurice, have a milder climate compared to the higher-altitude ski areas.

At higher altitudes, the temperature is generally cooler, and the snowfall is more abundant. This allows for better ski conditions and a longer ski season in the higher parts of Les Arcs.

Summary

Les Arcs experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for both winter sports enthusiasts and summer adventure seekers. The winter season offers excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions with cold temperatures and abundant snowfall. Spring brings milder temperatures and longer days, while summer provides pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Fall showcases the beautiful autumn colors before transitioning into the winter season again.

Whether you are looking for a winter wonderland or an outdoor playground during the summer, Les Arcs has something to offer all year round.