The Flying Kilometre, on the steep mountainside above Arc 2000 and Arc 1950, was the site of many an attempt on the world speed skiing record. Some were gloriously successful (Simone Orgone achieved an almost unbelievable 251.4 kmh on the course in 2006) and some ended in painful or even tragic failure. But now there is a new, much safer and more accessible way to hurtle down this mountain at high speed because a zipline has been built over the old speed skiing course. You can either go by yourself or on a dual ride, and reach speeds of approximately 130km – not as quick as Simone but more than fast enough for most people. The cost for the 2121/22 season is €55 but one ride is included in the Premium pass and there is a 50% discount with the Essential pass.
And whilst hardcore skiers might be sad that the actual flying kilometre ski run is no more, there is still plenty of tough, steep skiable terrain on this moutainside, with 4 official ungroomed black runs nearby – Lanches, Robert Blanc, Dou de l’Homme and Cretes – and lots of unofficial routes best explored with a guide.
For more information about Les Arcs, including how to get there, accommodation, and ski schools and guiding, please see the Ultimate-Ski guide to Les Arcs.