What’s new and entertainment this winter

• 2 December 2023
• by:  Fiona Rolian 
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The winter season starts soon! The Espace Diamant Ski Area will open from Saturday 23 December 2023 to Friday 5 April 2024. It will offer snowtubing (rubber tyres on the snow) at the foot of the Praz-sur-Arly slopes and a new Verdets ski left at Les Saisies.

The winter will see the completion of the Saint-Victor Chalets, with the first shop opening at Christmas, a delicatessen and a second shop for l’Epicurie after Megève. This will be a major milestone in the Town Centre project.

 

At the same time, at the Flumet entrance to the village, Yoann DEBRAY will be opening a La Choco outlet, also a laboratory, to add to his bakeries/pastry shops/chocolateries in Megève and Les Saisies. He will be offering workshops on chocolate, also known as “brown gold”. During the season, 3 new events will be added to the programme in January 2024: the 1st Mountain Aerology and Weather Week; the 1st White Trail; and the 1st Raclette at the Summit to break a world record for tasting the famous cheese!

More information: https://www.prazsurarly.com/temps-forts-hiver-2024/

The season is gearing up in Praz sur Arly with the arrival of the snow in the village. It’s a season with new features in the ski area, in the shops and with new activities for an unforgettable winter in the Espace Diamant region.

Another new feature: you can now book ESF group ski lessons directly from our Reservation Centre. Faster, easier and more economical, this all-in-one service is ideal for preparing your ski holiday with complete peace of mind.

To reserve: https://booking.prazsurarly.com/

 

1st White Trail – Sunday 21 January 2024 – Inscriptions open

• 6 November 2023
• by:  Fiona Rolian 
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1st White Trail – Sunday 21 January 2024

To help you stay in shape this winter and prepare for your next trail season, we’re delighted to present our 1st White Trail! Set off on an original course of 7km and 270D+ that will take you through the Praz sur Arly area. With a profile accessible to as many people as possible, this white trail is nonetheless a sporting challenge, so don’t underestimate the short climbs and descents that follow one another in the snow!

The course

Practical Information

Parking: Free parking at the foot of the slopes (think about carpooling )

Village departure: Meeting point at the foot of the slopes beside the Ski Lifts Ticket Office

Pick-up of race number bibs: The previous day at the Tourist Office, or on the spot between 7.30 and 8.30

Departure: 9.00

Time limit: 10.30 at the arrival (1.30 race time)

Refreshments: Refreshments available at the arrival

Obligatory equipment: Survival blanket and clothing suitable for the prevailing weather conditions at the time (the organizers reserve the right to disqualify any participant wearing unsuitable clothing).

Inscriptions

Cost: 13€ before 31/12/2023 – 15€ up to 20/01/2024

Valid FFA Licence or a medical certificate stating that there are no contra-indications to running in competition.

Unlimited skiing thanks to a season skipass at reduced rates

• 20 October 2023
• by:  Fiona Rolian 
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“PETITS ASTICOTS” FESTIVAL – “Ce matin-LÀ” Show – Friday 27 October in Praz sur Arly

• 19 October 2023
• by:  Fiona Rolian 
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This summer discover a fun new Hiking trail and a new comic book “La Thonnaz ne sonne plus!”

• 22 June 2023
• by:  Fiona Rolian 
• note:  0 Comments 

 

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A fun new hiking trail!

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Following on from the success of the Smugglers’ Trail, the commune of Praz-sur-Arly is opening a fun new hiking trail on 1 July, this time on the south-facing slope in the direction of the Plan de l’Aar refuge. It includes a treasure hunt with clues in a new comic book set during the French Revolution.

Opening of swimming lake, Aquapark on Saturday 8 July 2023 and Accrobranch Saturday 24 June 2023

• 16 June 2023
• by:  Fiona Rolian 
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New swimming lake (free access)

Access to the swimming lake: The main access to the swimming lake is from the Belles Leisure Park via a footbridge over the Arly River.

Thanks to a footpath created right around the lake, accessible to people with reduced mobility from Les Belles or the Cassioz road, users will be able to reach the beach and the reception building in which sanitary facilities, a lifeguard’s room, a storage room, a snack bar and a reception office are planned. They will also be able to reach the Accrobranch tree climbing course on the banks of the Arly.

New: A shuttle service (free) will also give you easy access to the swimming lake : timetable

Aquapark

Come and discover our giant water playground for up to 60 people! The aquapark for big and small is a series of different inflatable modules:

AIRBAGS, PLATFORMS, UNSTABLE LOGS, SLIDES, TRAMPOLINE, etc.

This sports course allows you to challenge your family and friends in a fun way. If you fall into the water, handles located all along the course allow you to get back up easily. A qualified supervisor is present on the course for the safety of all. Located a few meters from the shore, access to the aquapark is by swimming. It is therefore essential (especially for the youngest) to be at ease in the water and to know how to swim. The obligatory life jackets will be provided by the aquapark team.

Opening 2023: from 8 July to 3 September, 11.00-18.00, daily – from 3 September to 17 September 2023, 11.00-18.00, Wednesdays and weekends.
Cost: 11€ per hour.
Conditions: from 5 years and knowing how to swim / children under 10 years must be accompanied by a responsible adult / no reservation required / life jacket obligatory for all.

Accrobranch Park

We have 4 circuits to suit everyone, with a continuous lifeline system for added safety. What is a continuous lifeline system? For you, it means peace of mind: no carabiners to manipulate throughout the route. All you have to do is slide the pulley from one end of the circuit to the other and, above all, think about… having fun!

Our 3 courses give you access to 4 circuits in total, each made up of 12 to 15 workshops, for a good dose of fun for all the family! The level of difficulty is established in the same way as for the ski runs: Green, Blue, Red and Red +.

Opening: Saturday 24 June 2023

Contact and reservation: praz-lac-aventures.com (FR only)

Dates of main events of summer 2023

• 23 May 2023
• by:  Fiona Rolian 
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JULY 2023

SATURDAY 1 JULY AND SUNDAY 2 JULY: THE MB RACE

Passage and refreshment in the church square of the competitors in 2 of the MB Races: the MB Ultra (up to 170 km and 7,000 metres of altitude difference) and the MB Explore (a single-distance course of 55 km and 2,800 metres of altitude difference). On both days, from 8.20 to 12.30. Come and cheer on the racers, free access.

SUNDAY 9 JULY: MOUNTAIN WELL-BEING

On the programme: workshop and initiation with speakers on the theme of nature and well-being: naturopathy, reflexology, occupational therapy, herbalist… Free access. From 10.00 to 12.00 and from 14.00 to 18.00. Belles Leisure Park. More information (FR only)

THURSDAY 13 JULY: CONCERT “BAROQUE FESTIVAL IN THE PAYS DU MONT-BLANC”

For its 25th anniversary, the Festival will be under the sign of nature – both terrestrial and human. Join us in Praz sur Arly on the banks of the new swimming lake at 18.00 for a concert: “La Volière Magique” with Constance Luzzati and Claire Gonnard. Harp music and an aerial acrobat for a poetic moment at the water’s edge. Free access.

FRIDAY 14 JULY: FRENCH NATIONAL DAY  “TELEPHONE TRIBUTE” CONCERT AND FIREWORKS

At 21.00, free concert in the Town Hall square by the JEAN-LOUIS & CO group: tribute to the greatest French rock group TELEPHONE.  At 23.00: fireworks.

SUNDAY 16 JULY AND WEDNESDAY 19 JULY: PASSAGE OF THE TOUR DE FRANCE

The mythical race will go through the village twice: on the Route de Megève and the Route du Val d’Arly in the 15th and 17th stages of the Tour de France. Entertainment in the village centre during the two stages. Info on road closures (FR only)

THURSDAY 20 JULY and SUNDAY 13 AUGUST: SMUGGLERS’ TRAIL

A hike and a fun way to discover the world of smugglers. A sporty, cultural and playful approach for all the family with Praz Montagne and the company “En visite Simone”. On Thursday 20 July: a new itinerary Summer Smugglers’ Trail “La Thonnaz ne sonne plus!”; and Sunday 13 August, the traditional  “Smugglers’ Trail” via the Crêt du Midi chairlift.

THURSDAY EVENINGS IN PRAZ: 20/27 JULY

This summer, nightfall on Thursday evenings promises to be lively and festive in Praz sur Arly! From 20 July to 24 August, from 19.00 to 23.00, the main road through the village will be closed and accessible to pedestrians. 2 places, 2 different ambiences: at the beginning of the evening from 19.00 to 21.00 in the church square there’ll be an entertainment village for children; and from 19.00 to 23.00, 2 live concerts in the Town Hall square. More information (FR only)

SUNDAY 23 JULY:  PETANQUE TOURNAMENT

Our traditional and fun pétanque tournament with lots of prizes to be won. Inscriptions in pairs on the spot. Drinks stand and snacks available organized by the Praz sur Arly Ski Club. Banks of the River Arly.

SUNDAY 30 JULY: MOUNTAIN PASTURE FESTIVAL

Discover the Plan de l’Are mountain pasture and the work and life of a farmer on this high altitude farm. Picnic lunch with music. La Thonnaz no longer rings! A treasure hunt on this new fun trail with a comic strip as a top-guide to the new fun family trail. From 12:00 to 17:00 at the Plan de l’Are refuge, about 2 hours walk to reach the refuge.

AUGUST 2023

THURSDAY EVENINGS IN PRAZ : 3/10/17/24 AUGUST

This summer, nightfall on Thursday evenings promises to be lively and festive in Praz sur Arly! From 20 July to 24 August, from 19.00 to 23.00, the main road through the village will be closed and accessible to pedestrians. 2 places, 2 different ambiences: at the beginning of the evening from 19.00 to 21.00 in the church square there’ll be an entertainment village for children; and from 19.00 to 23.00, 2 live concerts in the Town Hall square. More information (FR only)

SUNDAY 6 AUGUST: PRAZ ON A MOTORBIKE

A new event – a gathering of all types of motorbikes. With the presence of the Seigneur Motosports Mont-Blanc team and the motorized Gendarmerie. Exhibition and stands, safety workshops and driving tips. From 10.00 to 16.00 in the centre of the village and the Route du Val d’Arly. Giant raclette at 12.00 and free concert at 14.00 with Rémy Boyer (Le Stou). Free access.

THURSDAY 20 JULY and SUNDAY 13 AUGUST: SMUGGLERS’ TRAIL

A hike and a fun way to discover the world of smugglers. A sporty, cultural and playful approach for all the family with Praz Montagne and the company “En visite Simone”. Thursday 20 July: a new itinerary from Bellevarde; and Sunday 13 August, the traditional  “Smugglers’ Trail” via the Crêt du Midi chairlift. More information (FR only)

TUESDAY 15 AUGUST: JUMBLE SALE AND FIREWORKS

From 8.00 to 17.00, shopkeepers’ sale and private individuals’ jumble sale throughout the village, which is closed to traffic (Route du Val d’Arly) for the occasion. Free access. Celtic rock concert by the group Arvester at 14.00 and fireworks at 22.00. More information (FR only)

SUNDAY 20 AUGUST: “RETROMOBILE” VINTAGE CAR RALLY

Gathering of more than 70 vintage cars and rides for the benefit of bone marrow donations with the Sapaudia Association. Musical entertainment, activities for children. From 10.00 to 12.30 and from 14.00 to 18.00 in the centre of the village and the Route du Val d’Arly. Free access. More information (FR only)

SATURDAY 26 AUGUST: 3rd ESPACE DIAMANT CANITRAIL

A mountain trail race with your dog. Second stage in Praz sur Arly: departure and arrival at the foot of the Crêt du Midi chairlift. Over 80 participants will cover more than 35 km in 3 stages in the Pays du Mont-Blanc. Free access for spectators. More information (FR only)

 

 

What’s on in March

• 3 March 2023
• by:  Fiona Rolian 
• note:  0 Comments 

+  Don’t miss these activities

March is here and the school holidays are now over. This is what’s on the programme, including: a welcome drink in the church square on Sunday evenings at 18.00; on Tuesdays there are puzzles to solve and win a reblochon cheese; on Wednesdays you can discover unusual snow equipment at the foot of the slopes. And in the art and culture department, there is the new exhibition PRAZ SUR ARLY, A MOUNTAIN OF INSPIRATION which brings together 12 paintings at the Tourist Office reception and 12 others along the banks of the Arly River.

See the full programme (FR only)

The Tourist Office is open from Monday to Sunday from 9.00 to 12.00 and 14.00 to 19.00.

-> Snowshoe outings with the Megève Mountain Guides’ Office. Go off and discover our mountains off the beaten track with a mountain guide. Inscriptions at the Tourist Office (Snowshow outing programme).

-> A reblochon cheese to be won on Tuesdays from 14.30 to 15.00. Only 30 minutes, not a minute more! Figure out our puzzles via our Face book stories and Instagram, the first three to find the right answer will win a reblochon cheese!

-> Initiation to Watercolour Painting with Babeth on Thursdays from 14.00 to 17.30. Registration obligatory at the Tourist Office, by Thursday 12.00 pm at the latest. Discover the art of watercolour painting with Elisabeth (Babeth) Socquet-Meilleret, a Praz artist for forty years, who will give you all the advice you need. 15€ per person – material provided.

Also don’t miss: 

-> THE TOWN COUNCIL’S CUP: (Cancelled due to bad weather forecast)  The people of Praz, permanent residents or visitors, young or old, are invited to ski a fun giant slalom race for the Town Council’s Cup on SUNDAY 12 MARCH. Fancy dress is strongly advised! By inscription.

-> SNOW FOR REFUGEES. Praz sur Arly has a big heart and and invites young refugees in the Haute Savoie region for a discovery day of skiing on THURSDAY 16 MARCH.

-> VAL D’ARLY SMUGGLERS’ TRAIL 2023  (Cancelled) An unusual hike following in the footsteps of the smugglers and customs officers of yesteryear. A really fun walk on SUNDAY 2 APRIL.

As well as…

-> BE A SKI PATROLLER FOR A DAY on Thursdays at 8.40. A unique opportunity! Set off with a ski patroller and make your first tracks before the ski area opens.

-> DISCOVER THE TETRAS LYRE on Wednesday 15 March from 9.00 to 16.00: A stand to discover the local fauna.

-> CRAZY SNOW SPORTS every Wednesday at the foot of the slopes from 15.00 to 16.00: Free loan of sledges and yooners!

+ Ski Area

+ State of the roads

+ Weather

Chamonix and Mont Blanc Area Weather Forecast in English: chamonix-meteo.com

The Val d’Arly Smugglers’ Trail – CANCELLED

• 27 February 2023
• by:  Fiona Rolian 
• note:  0 Comments 

This is a lovely way for tourists and people of Praz, seasonal workers and inhabitants of the Pays du Mont Blanc region to meet up for a fun day’s outing! Check out the photos of the 2022 edition: ©Hervé Leibolt: https://www.prazsurarly.com/chemin-des-contrebandiers/

21st SMUGGLERS’ TRAIL, SUNDAY 19 MARCH 2023 (Cancelled)

Go off and discover the magnificent summits around Praz-sur-Arly, either on snowshoes or sealskin skis, with the Praz Montagne Club. An unusual hike following in the footsteps of the smugglers and customs officers of yesteryear. It’s a really fun walk!

 

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3 DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TRAIL

> LITTLE SMUGGLERS’ CIRCUIT:  Very easy – About an hour-and-a-half walk with 300 metres of negative altitude difference. For occasional walkers and children.

> THE MONT DE VORES CIRCUIT:  For regular hikers. About 3 hours’ walk of 6 km (200m of positive and 500m of negative altitude difference).

> THE GRAND VERY CIRCUIT:   For experienced hikers.  4 hours’ walk of 8 km (300m of positive altitude difference).

N.B. :  After the picnic you will still have to walk 200m of positive altitude difference (3/4 of an hour) to get back to the chairlift.

RATES

(including chairlifts, snacks and picnic at the arrival)

18€ per adult (over 12 years) – Inscription online

9€ for under 12 years – Inscription online

Groups (20 pers) : 15€ (+12 years) and 6€ (-12 years) – paper inscriptions only

Inscriptions on the spot: 20€ and 10€

 

Gathering point on the Varins parking lot from 8.45! 

   Departure of the hikers by the Crêt du Midi chairlift at 9.15

 

Dates of Main Events of Winter 2022/23

• 24 February 2023
• by:  Fiona Rolian 
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14 events this winter and a programme of activities for the whole family. A new event with all the Espace Diamant resorts: the Diamond Cup. The challenge cup replaces the Pure Diamond Days for season skipass holders. A new solidarity event: the 1st edition of Snow for Refugees.

December 2022

18-31 DECEMBER 2022: CHRISTMAS IN THE PAYS DU MONT-BLANC AND NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

During December and January, the 14 villages and resorts of the Mont Blanc region will be offering more than 120 events during the festive period. The programme includes illuminations, street shows, sports activities and, of course, Christmas parades and markets, in the heart of traditional villages and snow-covered landscapes… An exceptional and eclectic programme which should delight young and old and the many holidaymakers present during this festive period. Christmas in the Mont Blanc region is also an opportunity to discover or rediscover the traditions and stories of these 14 villages located at the foot of Europe’s highest peak, to share encounters with the men and women who live there and perpetuate their know-how, a time to simply experience magical moments with family and friends. More information (FR only)

January 2023

SATURDAY 7 – SUNDAY 8 JANUARY 2023: THE INTERNATIONAL MONTGOLFIADES

Benefiting from ideal aerological conditions, the resort of Praz-sur-Arly has become THE spot for mountain hot air ballooning in France. Hot air balloon flights are possible all year round thanks to the Alpes Montgolfière team. But, during one weekend, a real hot air ballooning festival awaits you in this small village! There will be many fun activities for the whole family (creative workshop on the theme of air, games, competitions).

29 JANUARY 2023:  11th PRAZ YOONER CHALLENGE (Cancelled, see revised programme below)

Come and discover the Yooner, with initiation and tests on Saturday and then challenge your friends and family to a race in the derby on Sunday. Strong sensations and lots of laughs are guaranteed! More information (FR only)

February 2023

DRAZ’S MARDI GRAS DAYS: TUESDAYS 14-21-28 FEBRUARY 2023: 
Every Tuesday during the February school holidays is devoted to children! Creative workshops, children’s show with Opoual, meetings with Praz-sur-Arly’s gentle dragon mascot, Draz. Lots of activities to create unforgettable memories of our resort.

PRAZ SNOW AND AIR DAYS: WEDNESDAYS 8-15-22 FEBRUARY 2023:
For just one day, leave aside your skis and discover other new snow sports:  fat bike, yooner, snooc for different fun sensations!

MONDAY 27 FEBRUARY – FRIDAY 3 MARCH 2023: MOUNTAIN PROFESSIONS WEEK

Come and learn about the mountain professionals who work in extreme conditions. Drivers of snow-grooming machines, ski patrol, ski-tow men… they’ll all be here to show you their jobs. More information (FR only)

March 2023

1 and 2 MARCH 2023: MATRA VTT SNOW CROSS TOUR

The Matra Snow Cross returns to Praz sur Arly for a new edition of this fun FAT-BIKE competition. The Matra Snow Cross is an e-FatBike (electric mountain bike) championship, which takes place in several stages. This unique competition is open to all: beginners, amateurs, sportsmen or experienced riders, and will allow you to test your limits on snowy circuits. Free inscription. More information (FR only)

SUNDAY 12 MARCH 2023: THE TOWN COUNCIL’S CUP (Cancelled due to bad weather forecast)

As is done every year, the people of Praz, permanent residents or visitors, young or old, are invited to ski a giant slalom race for the Town Council’s Cup, held either on the Thomas Fanara stadium or the Quezet piste (one run only). A friendly ski race, free of charge, with no sporting stakes, just for the pleasure of getting together at the end of the season. The ESF will propose a pro and non-pro ranking, men and women, by age category and a family ranking (1 child + 1 adult from the same family). Fancy dress is highly recommended and rewarded.  More info (FR only): https://www.mairie-prazsurarly.fr/actualites/journal-ligne/46e-coupe-conseil-12-mars

THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023:  SNOW FOR REFUGEES

A day of discovery of snow sports for the refugees and migrants of Haute-Savoie. Praz sur Arly has a heart and all the actors are mobilized to offer an unforgettable day to its young refugees.

SUNDAY 2 APRIL 2023: THE VAL D’ARLY SMUGGLERS’ TRAIL (Cancelled)

On snowshoes or trekking skis, take part in an historic and fun mountain walk! Three different levels of trails are available so that all the family can participate together and then enjoy a Savoyard buffet at the end! More info: https://www.prazsurarly.com/en/18th-smugglers-trail-sunday-22-march-2020/