General Information
La Plagne which lies in the Paradiski area of the French Alps is a combination of six high altitude resorts with four village resorts. Skiing in La Plagne is very popular among tourists who choose France to spend their holiday in. La Plagne is one of the largest ski resorts in the world which covers a network of 220 km pistes. The high altitude resorts are at elevations ranging from 1,800 meters to 2,100 meters or 5,900 feet to 6,900 feet. The village resorts are at elevations ranging from 1,250 meters to 1,450 meters or 4,100 feet to 4,750 feet. There are 89 ski lifts in the area. The cable car can be taken to restaurants and view points up the mountain. The Vanoise express connects an area of 420 km pistes altogether.
Winter Activities
During the winter, there is plenty of skiing. With 89 ski lifts covering the slopes, there is something that will suit both beginner and expert level skiers. La Plagne has a vertical descent of 6,500 feet; an expert skier can begin from Roche de Mio at 8,775 feet and plunge down to Montchavin at 4,062 feet when there is good amount of snow or could descent down from Bellecote to Les Bauches which is a clean 4,000 feet sweep. Besides catering to downhill skiers, cross-country skiers and snowshoe-hiking are also at the disposal with several miles of trails. There are ice caves nearby for those who want to explore them. The other winter sports available are bob-sledding, ice skating, ice climbing, and dog sledging and all can have guided tours if wanted. Glacier walking is an added attraction for families who prefer hiking.
Summer Activities
Hiking is popular during the summer months. Rollerblading, skateboarding, mountain biking, rock climbing, and Nordic walking are commonly seen as well. There are specially designed scooters for use on the mountain trails. The adventure park located outside the resort has several routes of zip lines and rope bridges high up in the trees. There is a mini-golf course and a paintball. There are guided trips down the fast running creeks for those interested in hydrospeeding – river-rafting on a body board- or canyoning, which is using the waterbed as an obstacle course on a waterslide. Rock climbing can either be done outdoors or on an indoor rock wall in the sports centre. Horseback riding is another activity and can include lessons. Hot air balloon rides are available.
Other Information
The Vanoise National Park is nearby for those who wish to explore the fauna and flora of the French Alps and travel even more miles of trails. There is an alpine history museum. Tours of farms where visitors can see farm animals, ride ponies, or learn how to make cheese are available. Keep in mind that there are a lot of affordable and luxury apartments in La Plagne. There are many festivals and organized events throughout the year that cover many types of activities.