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What’s new in the 2018-2019 Season

A new season starts for us all on Saturday 22 December 2018 until Friday 6 April 2019. So what’s new? The creation of a slalom stadium, a new dog sledding operator, new accommodation – the Belle Bubble Lodge, new library premises and changes in our shops. On the entertainment side, it’s our 80th anniversary and that will serve as the common thread for the whole season!

 


SKIING  & ACTIVITIES


 

A SLALOM STADIUM

Creation of a new ski piste – a slalom stadium – parallel to the Chars run, reserved for competition skiing.

 

It will be named the “Thomas Fanara” piste in honour of our ski champion. The stadium will be inaugurated this winter by Thomas himself and the children of the Ski Club who will set a giant slalom run for the occasion.

 

Primarily designed for training and competitions, the stadium will also be open to the public outside Ski Club and ESF sessions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A NEW DOG SLEDDING OPERATOR

A new company will be offering dog sledding in Praz sur Arly, around the cross-country track (from the foot of the slopes to Cassioz). Take a ride or, better still, try driving a team of dogs yourself! The operator is Evolution 2 with the musher Natacha. Reservations here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


ACCOMMODATION


 

THE BELLE BUBBLE LODGE ON THE PISTES:  apartments and 4 B&B rooms at the foot of the slopes! Situated at the start of the old Combe Noire ski-tow, which was transformed into a hotel in the 70s (The Darbelo), the building has been completely renovated. Karin and René are the new owners of the Belle Bubble Lodge.

Internet site: www.labblodge.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


SHOPS AND SERVICES


 

 

A NEW LIBRARY: the new premises of the Praz sur Arly library were inaugurated this autumn: more space, new services, more reading material (magazines, etc.), longer opening hours to include Wednesday afternoon, and a home delivery service for those who are unable to come to the library. The new address: 65, route du Val d’Arly (opposite the Tourist Ofice).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The CRÊT DU MIDI GARAGE has moved. The Legoux family and their team are now at the Flumet entrance to Praz: 1381 route du Val d’Arly, for the sale of new and second-hand cars, as well as rentals, mechanics and bodywork.

New this winter: take advantage of their offer to deliver and mount chains on your car at your residence! More information: 04 50 21 90 30.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTERMARCHE has undergone a major transformation this autumn. After the opening of the “Comptoirs de la Bio” store this summer, the Intermarché itself has been completely renovated by Stéphanie and Emmanuel Boulay’s team. You will find products grouped in specific areas, with particular importance given to local and regional products.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE END OF AN ERA AT EMONET SPORTS: Patricia Emonet and René Blanc have handed over to Jean-Charles Vernet who is the new manager of the SKISET shop at the Megève entrance to the village. Patricia and René were particularly appreciated for the warmth of their welcome and their professionalism.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MY DREAM HOME: Flore and Ryan GREEN are the new managers of the My Dream Home estate agency. This Franco-British agency specializes in the sale of chalets and apartments in the French Alps.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE BELLES: The Belles is also open in the winter! Jude and Emmanuel GUILLET will open the Belles snack bar during the holidays with a new sheltered terrace.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


ENTERTAINMENT & EVENTS


This winter is the 80th anniversary of our resort and this will be the common thread of our activities throughout the winter.

 

+ DECORATION OF THE VILLAGE all winter: the shops, hotels and private renters will decorate the village around the theme of skiing and the ski lifts.

+ EXHIBITION all winter: “80 years of the ski lifts” in photos at the Tourist Office and a new exhibition of monumental sculpture honouring Louis Chabaud, Praz’ pioneering outsider artist and sculptor.

+ PHOTO COMPETITION all winter: take a photo of yourself in the photo frame at the bottom of the Crêt du Midi chairlift and take part in the competition for the best shots.

+ NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY, Monday 31 December 2018: bring in the New Year in style with a DJ, fireworks and a fancy dress competition on the theme of the 80th anniversary of our resort.

+ ANNIVERSARY DAY, Sunday, 27 January 2019. On the programme: tests of new snow sports (yooner, snowscoot, wingjump), tasting of local products in the ski area! In the evening: torchlight descent, retrospective in images of the history and principle actors of our resort, fire show, anniversary cake for all and fireworks!

+ VIP DAYS IN THE ESPACE DIAMANT 2/3 February 2019: spa, massage, tests and initiation to new snow sports, Savoyard buffet on the pistes… For season ticket holders!

+ THE TOWN COUNCIL’S CUP, Sunday 31 March 2019: the locals and holidaymakers, big and small, are invited to participate in the Town Council’s Cup, a not-too-serious one-run giant slalom. Two new competitions: an obstacle race on snow and a yooner challenge. Fancy dress strongly advised!

 

The programme of entertainment has been updated with some new activities:  scrapbook workshops, fairy tales along the banks of the River Arly, snowman and selfies competitions.

 

 

Order your season ski pass now!

Buy your ESPACE DIAMANT SEASON SKI PASS before 1 November 2018 and take advantage of a SPECIAL OFFER of 489€ (1) instead of 667€!

 

Ski on 192km of pistes connecting 6 village resorts!

+ 9 days of free skiing (2)
+ 1 VIP day of your choice from 6 possible dates (3)

 

(1)  On the basis of one adult ski pass bought before 1 November.
(2)  See the conditions in each resort and on our reservation site.
(3)  See the 6 possible dates below.

 


On the programme :


  • > new snow activities with our champions
  • > massage and relaxation in an outdoor spa
  • > tasting of local gastronomic products
  • > trying out of snow vehicles

 


Choose 1 day from these 6 possible dates:


> Les Saisies – 12 & 13 January 2019
> Praz-sur-Arly – 02 & 03 February 2019
> Crest-Voland – 16 & 17 March 2019
> After ordering your season ski pass, in order to participate in one of these 6 days, you will receive a newsletter with a link to sign up.

News and Dates of Main events of Summer 2018

Praz sur Arly has prepared a great summer 2018 season for you with all sorts of new activities and events. Our huge natural playground is growing bigger for even more dynamic holidays in the mountains.

Initiation to “trail”
Alban FIERS, an accompanying guide in Praz-sur-Arly, will be offering initiation to trail running in our weekly programme of activities. If you’re an occasional runner or just a beginner, come and run along with Alban.

Anakonte Exhbition

Louis Chabaud has invited Anaka to present her project during the 2018 edition of his Outsider Art Festival which he has been organizing with Paulette for over 20 years now. The theme of this exhibition is the 2018 edition of “Anakonte d’Artistes”: 29 French outsider artists have participated in this project with images of the symbolic game created by Anaka.

A new version of the Activities Pass

Praz-sur-Arly is proposing a new pass for access to unlimited activities including the Crêt du Midi chairlift, mini-golf and tennis. The pass also offers reductions with our associated partners and other activities can be added to the card in the surrounding Pays du Mont-Blanc villages (summer sledging, skating, biotope lake, swimming pools…). More information: 0450219057; www.prazsurarly.com

New in the Belles Leisure Park

Jude and Manu are taking over the running of the Club House which has been renamed the Belles Bar. There will be new activities on offer like Roller-Hockey (with the Roller Hockey Club of Praz sur Arly), bubble-foot and a new children’s game.

A BIO Supermarket

The commercial zone is growing with the opening of the biggest BIO shop in the Pays du Mont-Blanc, right beside the Intermarché.

 

New events: Woodcutting competition, Performing Arts Week, Outdoor Cinema, Retro-gaming… and plenty of other entertainment for a fun summer!

There will be plenty of events and entertainment for young and old this summer in Praz sur Arly! Sport, music, gastronomy, art, culture and heritage… those are the main themes this summer that you shouldn’t miss!

The new tourist guide is a brochure and information guide (FR only) all in one document! You’ll find all the information you need in it: new events, accommodation, activities, map of the village, useful addresses, etc.

 

 

THE MAIN DATES


Saturday, 7 and Sunday, 8 July – MB RACE


Ophélie David

Time: As of 13.45

Place: In front of the Praz sur Arly Church.

The MB RACE ULTRA, the most difficult mountain-bike race in the world, will be passing through Praz sur Arly on Saturday afternoon on its 140km stage! Come and join us at the refreshment point in the Church Square to cheer on the champions and enjoy the musical entertainment.

On Sunday, you can watch the MB Classic and the MB Classic E-Bike passing through in the morning.

 

 

 

 


Friday, 13 to Sunday, 20 July – 2018 OUTSIDER ART FESTIVAL


Time: Various

Places: Various

Louis CHABAUD has invited ANAKA to present her project during this 2018 edition of his Outsider Art Festival. “Anakonte d’Artistes” is a gathering of 29 French outsider artists around the theme of images of the symbolic game created by Anaka. Concerts, exhibitions and creative workshops. jpg2pdf

For further information, see: http://www.anaka.org/

 

 

 

 

 


Saturday, 14 July – BAROQUE MUSIC FESTIVAL IN THE PAYS DU MONT-BLANC and 14th OF JULY FESTIVITIES


Time: 14.30

Place: Top of the Crêt du Midi Chairlift

The theme of this 21st Pays du Mont-Blanc Baroque Music Festival is “The Baroque Croissant, from Venice to Prague” – baroque music and concerts, ancient instruments, and fun entertainment at the top of the Crêt du Midi chairlift.

14.30: EOLUS Concert in the arrival area of the Crêt du Midi chairlift. Playing trumpets, Alpine horns, bassoons and other instruments used in outdoor baroque music, the Eolus Ensemble will delight you with music from Vivaldi, Telemann and Handel in a sumptuous decor.

 

14th of July Fireworks

Time: 22.30

Place: Varins Parking

Join us in the Varins Parking lot for the traditional 14th of July fireworks followed by various festivities offered by our partners (programme to follow).

 

 


Sunday, 15 July – INTERNATIONAL WOODCUTTING COMPETITION


Time: As of 10.00.

Place: Behind the Praz sur Arly church.

4 teams of 8 candidates of different nationalities (Italian, Swiss, French, Benelux) will be competing in this friendly woodcutting competition in Praz sur Arly.

On the programme: An Australian challenge with qualifying round in the morning, and final and runner-up final in the afternoon.

 

3 musical shows during the day by Jacques Pissenem. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xpl5PP3p2oE.

In between the shows, he will be showing you how to make fun little sculptures.

 

A representative of the National Forestry Organization will be present to explain the importance of the protection of mountain flora and fauna.

 

You will also be able to make your own mountain balm with Michel Rostalski.

 

 


Sunday, 22 July – MOUNTAIN SPORTS FESTIVAL


Time: As of 14.00.

Place: Belles Leisure Park.

 

A day of outdoor sporting activities in the Belles Leisure Park with initiation to cani-rando, mountain biking, climbing wall and many other sports.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Saturday, 28 July – FANARA’S CUP


Time: As of 11.00.

Place: Banks of the Arly River.

Price: 10€/per pers. 20€ for a team of two.

The traditional pétanque competition organized by the Thomas Fanara Fan Club. Inscriptions on the spot at 11.00. All day long: giant BBQ, bar and music for a fun ambience! Start of the tournament at 12.30 and prize-giving at the end of the day.

 

 

 

 

 

 


From 27 to 29 July – TASTE FESTIVAL


Time: Various, see the detailed programme.

Places: Portes de Megève, Praz sur Arly Town Hall Square

 

The Taste Festival will take place at the Portes de Megève this summer! A tasting competition will start off the festivities on Friday evening, followed by Taste workshops on Saturday, ending with a friendly coffee in the village square on Sunday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Tuesday, 31 July – MONT BLANC YOUNG TALENTS’ FESTIVAL


 

Time: 18.00

Place: Praz sur Arly Church Square

 

Don’t miss the Young Talent’s Festival and discover the future stars of the French music scene! And… it’s free! After the Frero Delavega, Joyce Jonathan, Emji (winner of the 2016 New Star award) INCANTÈSIMU and BEAR’S TOWERS, discover Pays du Mont-Blanc performers including Jeanette Berger, a talented singer who has won numerous prizes in Pays de Savoie festivals. Here is an extract from her new album which she will be presenting.

 

 


Friday, 3 August – EVASIONS LYRIQUE CONCERT


 

Time: 21.30 – 22.30

Place: Praz sur Arly Church

A show by three passionate performers: an opera singer, a pianist and a young actress. An attractive and eclectic programme of music and texts.

An habitué of big international stages, (Paris Opera, Les Arts Florissants…) with a warm and powerful voice, Patricia Ponselle likes to be close and complicit with her audiences. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ejlWGnR42A

Actress: Valentine Venezia

Pianists

– Yves Lavigne

– Hugues Denolly

– Noel Ielantin

 

 


Saturday, 4 August – EVENING MEAL AND MYSTERY ENQUIRY WITH THE COSTARD CRAVATE COMPANY


Time: As of 19.30

Place: Maison de la Montagne

 

For the first time, Praz sur Arly is welcoming the Costard Cravate Company who are organizing a mystery enquiry meal. Will you be able to solve the mystery they have dreamt up, working as a team and making logical deductions? A fun time for all is guaranteed at this unusual event.

 


Sunday, 5 August – THE CURIOUS TALES OF PRAZ SUR ARLY


Time: As of 10.00.

Place: A circuit

Price: 5€

 

Through this theatrical visit, we want to highlight the changes that have taken place and how we have reinvented the infrastructures in our mountain village resort. Discover the hidden heritage of Praz sur Arly in the XXth century with this unusual trip back in time.

 

 

 

 

 


8 to 10 August – CINEMA IN THE MOUNTAINS


Times: Various.

Place: Behind the Praz sur Arly Church.

 

During the day, workshops open to all on inscription, with Gaïné offering initiation to sound-recording and image-mixing. In the evening, free outdoor projection of recent films on such themes as The mountains, a decor for cinema.

 

 

 

 

 

 


11 to 17 August – PERFORMING ARTS WEEK


Times: Various – see below.

Places: Various – see below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Saturday, 11 August – THE FUEGOLOKO COMPANY INVITE YOU TO THEIR FLAMMENKUCHE SHOW


Flammenkuche is much more than a fire show, it’s an intense moment of clowning around where the audience is constantly solicited, in a swing and groovy style, interspersed with graceful classical interludes, all of it, yes, a bit crazy. In other words, great fun!

 

Bande annonce du spectacle To-Bô-Dom

Publiée par Fuegoloko sur Mardi 4 novembre 2014

 

 


Tuesday, 14 August – “LES COLPORTEURS DE RÊVES” SHOW IN THE TOWN AND ON STAGE


Theatre, music, circus acts blend together with strong public interaction: the show is them, the show is you!

An explosive tale of festivity, solidarity and musical interactivity. An invitation to young and old to never give up reaching for their forgotten dreams…

 


Wednesday, 15 August – JUMBLE SALE and 15th OF AUGUST CELEBRATIONS


Time: As of 10.00.

Places: Various.

Shopkeepers’ end-of-summer sale and the locals’ jumble sale all over the village, closed for pedestrians for the occasion.

In the evening, fireworks in the Belles Leisure Park at 22.30 and dancing with DJ Julien.

 

 

 

 

 

 


Friday, 17 August – THE INSTITUTE OF MUSIC-HALL ARTS SHOW


The Institute of Music-Hall Arts is coming to Praz sur Arly to present a show of dancing, singing, juggling and theatre. A very unique performance which will delight all ages.

 


Saturday, 18 August – RETRO-GAMING


Time: As of 10.00.

Place: Behind the Praz sur Arly Church

 

Old people spend their days remembering the games of yesteryear and want to pass on their skills and memories. If you like dusty old games, you’ll really enjoy this!

 

 

 

 

 

 


Sunday, 19 August – VINTAGE CAR FESTIVAL


Time: As of 10.00.

Place: In front of the Praz sur Arly Church.

Come and take part in this fun vintage car gathering with about 20 cars offering initiation rides for the benefit of the Sapaudia Association (bone marrow donation). Musical entertainment, waffles and sale of mini cars.

The Satin Doll Sisters will provide great retro musical entertainment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Must-do Summer Activities

Find out what activities you must try out this summer in Praz sur Arly! You’ll see magnificent scenery with the Mont Blanc as a backdrop when hiking in our mountains, or you can enjoy a game of mini-golf and discover our very unusual works of art!


THE SMUGGLERS’ TRAIL

Chemin des contrebandiersBased on the history of the region, with a comic book as a guide, this walk is a treasure hunt for children in the mountains. Fun educational panels lead you to a secret code to solve a mystery at the top of the Crêt du Midi chairlift. A two-hour family walk at 1,700m to find Fanfouétomas’ treasure!  Fanfouétomas comic book (44 pages, 6€) on sale in shops and at the Tourist Office.

 

 

Buy the comic book online: Le trésor de Fanfouétomas

For more information: www.prazsurarly.com/le-chemin-des-contrebandiers

 

 


CRÊT DU MIDI CHAIRLIFT

Reach the summits of Praz-sur-Arly in only a few minutes with the 6-seater Crêt du Midi chairlift. Climb to 1,700 metres in 10 minutes! The top is the start of numerous hikes including the Smugglers’ Trail.

Rates:  Adult ascent (from 17 years): 6.90€. Child ascent (6-16 years inclusive): 5€. The descent is free. Adult day ticket: 15€/Child: 12.50€.

Opening Days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 9.30 to 16.30.

For more information: prazsurarly.labellemontagne.com

 

 


HIKING STARS

Praz_sur_Arly_shooting_rando_LR-david malacrida-2133 walks, 3 levels: from the easiest to the most difficult! It’s simple: on presentation of a photo of the young walker (camera, smartphone) on one of the three summits, a diploma and medal (in the shape of an edelweiss) will be awarded depending on the level of difficulty. All three walks are less than 2 hours.

Ban Rouge (GOLD STAR) One of the highest summits in Praz sur Arly. At 1,983 m, you have a 360° view of 3 mountain ranges: the Aravis, the Beaufortain and the Mont Blanc! Altitude gain: 253 m (from the Crêt du Midi chairlift). Walking time: 2 hours.

The Evettes Lake (SILVER STAR). This is an easy walk of about one hour and 50 minutes. The mostly forested itinerary brings you to the banks of a little mountain lake. Altitude gain: 270 m. Walking time: 1 hour 50 mins.

The Epines Blanches (BRONZE STAR). This is a panoramic circuit facing the Mont Blanc range and the whole of the Val d’Arly. A chance to discover numerous old farms dotted along the way before arriving at the forested part. Altitude gain: 190 m. Walking time: 1 hour and 15 mins.

 

 


HIKING AND THE GRAND WALKING TOUR OF THE PAYS DU MONT-BLANC

Refuge du Plan de l'Are sur le GR Tour du Pays du Mont-BlancThere are 15 hiking trails between 1,035 and 2,000 metres in Praz-sur-Arly. There is also the Grand Walking Tour of the Pays du Mont-Blanc: 160 km of marked paths, accessible to all levels of hikers. The Alpine pastures, villages, traditional Alpine lifestyles and the escarpments of the highest summit in Europe are a veritable hikers’ paradise. Mountain lovers can enjoy one of the most beautiful hikes in the Haute-Savoie. Two mountain refuges – the Plan de l’Are and the Petit Tétras – are on the Grand Tour and you can reserve on www.monrefugepaysdumontblanc.com

 

The Grand Walking Tour of the Pays du Mont-Blanc: A 3 to 12 day circuit, with many possibilities, crossing 5 nature reserves. A choice of trails for all levels of hikers and a complete FFRP topographical guide.

 

 


THE BELLES LEISURE PARK AND OUTSIDER ART MINI-GOLF

visuel site 1The Belles Leisure Park is a favourite place for families. Activities include: children’s games, tennis, beach-volley, a climbing wall, multisports ground, a giant chequers game, skate park, pétanque ground, etc.

It also has an unusual 18-hole landscaped mini-golf and 20 original works of art. Come and discover the cycling rabbit, the Swiss Dahu, the black and white cow, the man of the mountain tops …

You can reserve the tennis court or mini golf at the Barabelles Club House. They also serve drinks, ice creams and light snacks.

Opening hours: Open daily from 10.00 to 18.00.

Rates: 1 to 3 people = 6 €;  4 to 8 people = 5 €;  8 people and more = 4.5 €

 


PARAGLIDING AND HOT AIR BALLOONING

prazvillagebisPraz-sur-Arly is well known for its hot air balloon flights. Flights leaving from the village are possible all year round, in all four seasons. It’s an amazing sight. The view from the basket is magical as the balloon lifts up over the mountain tops. It’s like an open balcony on the Mont Blanc range, the Aravis Chain,  the Beaufortain, and part of the Swiss and Italian Alps … Thanks to the exceptional aerological conditions of this part of the Alps, the resort of Praz sur Arly has a hot air balloon company on the spot all year round.

 

And what about paragliding? Discover the unique sensation of a flight taking off from the summits of Praz sur Arly or Megève. Your initiation will take place in magnificent scenery gliding over the foothills of the Mont Blanc range and the Aravis Chain.

 


WATER AND FISHING

Pêche, Gael Joncour, 2014 (3)The River Arly runs through the village and is a lovely spot in summer to relax on the banks or cool off in the water!

 

The Pays du Mont-Blanc is a magnificent place to fish. The Tourist Office organizes workshops for children in the summer. Fishing permits are on sale at the Tourist Office reception.

 

 

The Val d’Arly Smugglers’ Trail, 25 March 2018

Breathtaking scenery, trails for all levels of hikers, good humour and fun company, those are the ingredients of the success of this wonderful annual hiking excursion.

It’s a simple formula: participants go up in the two chairlifts to reach the top of the Ban Rouge without too much effort, from where the trails start. There are 3 marked snowshoe and ski trekking circuits. All along the way you’ll meet smugglers and customs officers dressed in old-fashioned costumes with their old-fashioned skis. Some might even try to smuggle in some local produce, but it’s true that the customs officers are not generally paying much attention. In short, it’s a really fun outing!

 

PROGRAMME

As of 8.45: Gathering in the Varins parking lot.

9.15:  Departure of the hikers for the Crêt du Midi chairlift.

As of 12.00: Picnic offered by Intermarché.

 

INSCRIPTIONS

Download the 2018 Flyer

Online inscription for adults

Online inscription for children

 

 

Three marked circuits are available:

The 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 Vorès Circuit

About 3 hours with a distance of 6 km (200m of positive and 500m of negative altitude difference). For regular hikers.

The Grand Véry Circuit

The longest (about 4 hours with a distance of 8 km, 300m of positive altitude difference). For experienced hikers.

 

And at the end of it all, a lovely picnic awaits everyone at Chevan. It’s a simple formula, not a competition, but one which seems to delight the many hikers who come back year after year.

The International Hot Air Balloon Meeting in Praz sur Arly on 13 and 14 January 2018

A unique event in the Pays du Mont-Blanc on the weekend of 13 and 14 January 2018!


PRAZ-SUR-ARLY has become famous for its hot air balloon flights.

About 20 hot air balloons with French, Belgian and Swiss pilots will be present at the 28th “Montgolfiades” in Praz sur Arly.

On the programme:

4 long distance flights during the weekend.

2 free fixed-line flights open to all.

2 days’ of entertainment with the mini-hot air balloons from the Lilliput Balloon Club of Reims, family workshops for making balloons, kites and gliders.

 

 


Saturday, 13 January 2018


>9.00 BRIEFING, PREPARATION AND TAKE-OFF OF THE HOT AIR BALLOONS

CHILDREN’S WORKSHOPS: making of illuminated hot air balloons with the Ballons Pirates Company. Belles Leisure Park or Salle de la Montagne in the village.

>10.30 DEMONSTRATION OF RADIO-OPERATED MINI HOT AIR BALLOONS

With the Lilliput Balloon Club of Reims.

>14.00 BRIEFING, PREPARATION AND TAKE-OFF OF HOT AIR BALLOONS

Flight or initiation flight – 14.30 to 16.30

>CHILDREN’S WORKSHOPS: making of illuminated hot air balloons with the Ballons Pirates Company. Belles Leisure Park or Salle de la Montagne in the village.

>15.00 FIXED-LINE HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHT

Inscriptions on the spot (reception chalet) – free.

DEMONSTRATION OF RADIO-OPERATED MINI HOT AIR BALLOONS with the Lilliput Balloon Club.

The Club House (reception chalet at the Belles Leisure Park) will be open, offering drinks, snacks and children’s games.

 


Sunday, 14 January 2018


>9.00 BRIEFING, PREPARATION AND TAKE-OFF OF THE HOT AIR BALLOONS

CHILDREN’S WORKSHOP: making of illuminated hot air balloons with the Ballons Pirates Company. Belles Leisure Park or Salle de la Montagne in the village.

>10.30 DEMONSTRATION OF RADIO-OPERATED MINI HOT AIR BALLOONS

With the Lilliput Balloon Club of Reims.

>14.00 BRIEFING, PREPARATION AND TAKE-OFF OF HOT AIR BALLOONS

Flight or initiation flight – 14.30 to 16.30

>CHILDREN’S WORKSHOP: making of illuminated hot air balloons with the Ballons Pirates Company. Belles Leisure Park or Salle de la Montagne in the village.

>15.00 FIXED-LINE HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHT

Inscriptions on the spot (reception chalet) – free.

DEMONSTRATION OF RADIO-OPERATED MINI HOT AIR BALLOONS with the Lilliput Balloon Club.

>16.00 Snack offered by ST MICHEL Biscuits.

The Club House (reception chalet at the Belles Leisure Park) will be open, offering drinks, snacks and children’s games.

>18.00 WELCOME DRINK – Church Square.

Presentation of the week’s programme of entertainment and activities with a “Hot Green” (Chartreuse), hot chocolate or mulled wine offered by the Union of Economic Partners of Praz sur Arly.

montgolfiere-praz montgolfiadesvue-sur-les-portes-de-megeve-et-val-soleil


The Pilots and Crews


Alain PARIS Flight Director
Bastien LE FRANCOIS Deputy Flight Director
Gérard ISSARTEL PRAZ SUR ARLY MONTGOLFIERE
Benoît OSCAR ALPES MONTGOLFIERE
Christian POUPINAIS ALPES MONTGOLFIERE
Gérard COLIN ONYX INFORMATIQUE-VILLE DE YUTZ
Sébastien REY BALLON SEB
Janine MAIROT ARLEQUIN
Brigitte et Bernard DE COLIGNY MARELAU 2
Christophe/Benoît TILLY/LOUYOT VILLE DE METZ
Jean-Philippe ODOUARD CERISE
Didier COCCO REGION AUVERGNE RHONE ALPES
Gilles ROULET AIR AGENCE IMMOBILIERE RENAUD
Patrick POUSSARDIN PRIMAGAZ
Constant ZUIN AIRSHOW
Guy CINQUIN MERCUREY
Gauthier HAYT PRINCESSE CLAIRE DE BELGIQUE
Michel BONNET EURE
Charles GOURMET BELGIUM BALLON
Alexis BEJAT PETIT PRINCE

 


Our Partners


 

logo-st-michel logo-cg74 logo-region-rhone-alpes primagaz
logo-labellemontagne logo-le-dauphine-libere belambra champagne-cuillier-blason

Why a hot air balloon meeting in Praz-sur-Arly?

In 1990, professional air meeting organizers came to Praz and discovered a large flat area devoid of any construction at the entrance of the village. For them it was the ideal spot for hot air balloons to take off. A year later, the first meeting took place with 12 balloons registered for the event. As of the following year the staff of the Tourist Office organized the event themselves.

 

In the last 27 years, we have had many well-known Flight Directors for this event: Guy Garcia, Daniel Dupuis known as “Papy”, Alain Paris and Jo Roulet.

“THE” place for hot air ballooning in the mountains in France

With its ideal aerological conditions, in just a few years the resort of Praz-sur-Arly has become THE place for hot air ballooning in the mountains in France.

 

Hot air balloon flights are possible year-round, thanks to the Alpes Montgolfière team.

 

But, for one weekend in January, a real ballooning festival awaits you in our little village.

What’s new in the Winter 2017-2018 Season

NEW ENTERTAINMENT

New snow entertainment: zumba on the slopes, astronomy with “La tête dans les étoiles” (Head in the Stars).

A magical Christmas week with Félix, French magic champion: magic workshop, fireworks display, balloon sculpting and stilts.

For season skiers: 3 VIP days with spas at altitude and in the snow, driving on ice and gastronomy festivals!

Praz sur Arly is a dynamic resort with its welcome drink every Sunday evening, concerts, artistic workshops, children’s entertainment and events: 12 MAIN EVENTS in all, from the Christmas Magic Festival to the Easter Weekend Festival on the last weekend of the opening of the ski area. Here is the list with all the dates!

 

NEW ACTIVITY: PHYSIO-PILATES

Pilates for everyone in Praz sur Arly! Refine your silhouette and your deep muscle tone, work on your posture, improve your flexibility and balance, or just take some time out for yourself – whatever your goal is, Pilates can be for you! Beginner to advanced level, in the morning, at noon or in the evening, whatever suits you best.

More information: http://www.supersaas.fr/schedule/Physiopilates/PhysioPilates

 

NEW ACCOMMODATION: Les Portes de Megève

16 independent chalets and 7 new apartments in a little hamlet.

Inaugurated on 26 September 2017, “Les portes de Megève” offers a concierge service, sauna and Turkish steam bath for relaxing and care-free holidays. Everything has been thought of to facilitate your stay. Parents, children and friends all have their own space and bathrooms. Televisions in every room, Wifi, Bluetooth audio system, dishwasher, washing machine and dryer, fully equipped kitchen, bed linen provided, garage, etc.  More info: www.lesportesdemegeve.com

 

THE FREE SKI-BUS ROUTE WILL BE EXTENDED ALONG THE ROUTE DE MEGEVE, FROM THE RAFFORTS ROUNDABOUT TO THE “PORTES DE MEGEVE” COMPLEX

 

AN INCREDIBLE OFFER: RESERVE AT CHRISTMAS, YOUR EASTER WEEKEND IS FREE!

From Saturday 23 to Saturday 30 December 2017, reserve your holiday at the Reservation Centre and you can have the same accommodation with skipass and ski equipment free for the Easter weekend (30 March to 2 April 2018). An incredible offer, depending on availability. The offer starts on 2 October 2017.

To take advantage of this offer:

  • Reserve your Christmas week in one of the participating furnished accommodations
  • Reserve your weekly Espace Diamant skipass
  • The same accommodation for the Easter weekend, with skipass and ski equipment, is free for the same number of people as reserved at Christmas.

Dates of Main Events of Winter 2017-2018

DECEMBER 2017

 

MAGICAL CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL, SUNDAY 24 to FRIDAY 29 DECEMBER 2017

In Praz-sur-Arly, there’ll be lots of fun entertainment on the theme of magic to enchant all the family, young and old! Christmas characters, fire show, fireworks display, magic workshops will transport you into the magical atmosphere of Christmas with Félix, the French national magic champion.

 

 

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY, SUNDAY 31 DECEMBER 2017

To bring in the New Year in style, the Church Square is transformed into a giant open-air dance floor! Drinks bar available on the spot and gifts for everyone!

 

JANUARY 2018

 

INTERNATIONAL HOT AIR BALLOON MEETING, SATURDAY 13 and SUNDAY 14 JANUARY 2018

20 hot air balloons assemble for the weekend for flights, initiations or simply for the pleasure of our eyes. There’s lots of fun entertainment for all the family (creative workshop on the theme of the air, games, competitions, etc.).

 

SKI AND SNOW FESTIVAL SUNDAY 21 JANUARY 2018

A celebration of snow and skiing. Opening of the pistes with the snow machines, biathlon initiation and discovery of new snow sports.

 

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2018

 

PRAZ YOONER CHALLENGE,  SATURDAY 3 and SUNDAY 4 FEBRUARY 2018

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 fun are guaranteed!

 

“MARDI GRAS”, TUESDAY 13, 20 and 27 FEBRUARY and 6 MARCH 2018

Every Tuesday during the February school holidays is devoted to children! Make-up and creative workshops, meetings with Praz-sur-Arly’s mascot Draz, the gentle dragon. Lots of activities creating unforgettable memories of our resort.

 

PRAZ FREESTYLE DAYS, WEDNESDAY 14, 21 and 28 FEBRUARY 2018

Discover the new snow sports:  the snow-scooter, the yooner, speed-riding, wing-jumping, the fat bike and other freestyle sports for amazing sensations!

 

MOUNTAIN PROFESSIONS WEEK, MONDAY 5 to FRIDAY 9 MARCH 2018

Come and learn about the mountain professionals who work in extreme conditions. Snow-grooming machine drivers, ski patrol, ski-tow men… they’ll be here to show you their professions. You’ll really be surprised!

 

 

MARCH/APRIL 2018

 

NATIONAL SNOWSCOOTER OPEN, SATURDAY 10 and SUNDAY 11 MARCH 2018

2 sensational races to crown the very best: the dual and the derby after the pistes are closed in the evening! At the same time, initiations open to all to try out this new snow sport.

 

TASTE FESTIVAL, FRIDAY 16 to SUNDAY 18 MARCH 2018

2nd Taste Festival in the mountains with top chefs. Workshops and cooking demonstrations, conferences and tastings in the village but also on the ski slopes.

 

SMUGGLERS’ TRAIL, SUNDAY 25 MARCH 2018

On snowshoes or hiking skis, take part in a historic mountain walk! 3 different levels of itinerary are available so that all the family can do it together!

 

EASTER WEEKEND FESTIVAL, 31 MARCH, 1 and 2 APRIL 2018

It’s Easter weekend! A good reason to party all over the village to the sound of musical groups in the shops, bars restaurants and on the ski slopes! There’ll also be some good deals in the sports shops on this last weekend of the opening of the ski area.

Partial advance opening of the Praz sur Arly ski area on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 December 2017!

It’s all schuss in the Val d’Arly this coming Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 December 2017! Partial opening of the Val d’Arly ski domain: Praz sur Arly (Crêt du Midi chairlift sector) and Notre Dame de Bellecombe (Mont-Rond 1350 sector). “1st snow” one-time price of 15 € per day per person (+ 2€ for the free-pass card).

 

More information on the opening of the ski lifts and runs in the next few days:

http://prazsurarly.labellemontagne.com/hiver/domaine-skiable/infos-pistes-bulletin-neige-meteo/

 

– PRAZ sur ARLY, Crêt du Midi chairlift sector:

– Crêt du Midi chairlift
– “Baby” ski-tow
– The Cassioz cross-country ski trail will be prepared.

 

– ND de BELLECOMBE, partial opening of the Mont-Rond (1350) sector:

– Mont-Rond chairlift
– Gueux chairlift
– Combe 2 ski-tow.

Ban Rouge Webcam on Saturday, 9 December 2017

 

“1st snow” one-time price:  15 € per day per person (+ 2€ for the free-pass card)

 

See you on Saturday at 9.00 for the first runs of the season!

Dates of Main events of Winter 2016/2017

Get out your diaries, here are the dates of the main events this winter! Sports, music, magic and lots of fun are on the programme this winter in Praz-sur-Arly. Discover our annual events like the Magic Snow Festival and the International Hot Air Balloon Meeting and find out what’s new!


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December:

  • From 19 to 25 December 2016, 7th Magic Snow Festival
  • 31 December 2016, New Year’s Eve Party

January

  • 14 and 15 January 2017,  27th International Hot Air Balloon Meeting
  • 22 January 2017, Ski and Snow Festival
  • 28 and 29 January 2017, Praz Yooner Challenge

February:

  • 7, 14, 21, 28 February, Mardi Gras
  • From 17 to 19 February, Food Festival
  • 25 and 26 February, 2nd Praz Adrenaline Contest

March:

  • From 6 to 10 March, Mountain Professions Week
  • 18 March, 3rd Snowscoot Open
  • 25 and 26 March, Spring Music & Shopping Festival

I want to know more!

54 Route du Val d'Arly, 74120 Praz-sur-Arly, Haute-Savoie, France
Open every day from 9.00 am to 12.00 am and 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm