Pierre & Vacances Premium Residence Arc 1950 Le Village

Entirely pedestrianized, this 2002-purpose-built resort is ski-in, ski-out. Colorful and lively, well-paved streets with shops, restaurants, and bars divide eight residences. The charming village has chalet-style buildings in various hues with painted shutters and flower-filled balconies, cobbled streets, and traditional lanterns. Lugging skis is a thing of the past here, with ski lifts right outside and free shuttles to farther slopes. Each residence has its own lobby and basement ski lockers, but these aren't heated, and temperatures have received equal criticism at the resort's outdoor pool and four hot tubs. Choose Prince des Cimes for direct pool access and note only half the residences have hot tubs. A full spa is relaxing but can get crowded, as can lines for the lifts or supermarket. Daily activities are varied and cater to the primarily family crowd. 

The resort has a real village feel, with pretty much everything on your doorstep. Depending on the residence, it's a one- to five-minute walk (or ski) for lifts, including Bois de L'ours, Marmottes, Saint Jacques, and Varet and free shuttles run to farther slopes. Les Belles Pintes Pub is a two-minute walk, as are multiple restaurants, including Hemingway's, La Vache Rouge (travelers will recognize its French translation of "The Red Cow" from outside), and Nonna's for great pizzas. A supermarket, bakery, and ski school are the same distance, as is the Deep Nature Spa. Bourg-Saint-Maurice town and station are a 30-minute drive; Chambery Airport is two hours by car; and Geneva Airport is close to three hours.

Rooms range from compact Suites to Four-Bedroom Apartments for up to 10 people. Their traditional lodge design includes lots of knotty wood, red (and often patterned) carpeting, mismatched wood furniture, landscape artwork, and fabrics either in neutral tones, plaid prints, or skiing motifs. Some of the decor is on the dated side, though it has a homey vibe. Although many units have lovely mountain vistas, some balconies are closed and not accessible. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, phones, desks with chairs (or full living areas in larger rooms), and fully equipped kitchenettes with electric hobs, microwaves, dishwashers, kettles, cookware, and dishes. Fridges are empty on arrival, although a grocery delivery service operates in winter (at a fee). Housekeeping isn't regular, but kitchen cleaning supplies are provided. Sofa beds and cribs are available, and upgraded rooms get slippers and robes. Some units have Nespresso machines (capsules not provided) and all have free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms come with shower/tub combos, basic hairdryers, and free toiletries.

Restaurants in the complex offer a la carte or buffet meals and range from French to Italian, plus there are some pubs for an après-ski vibe. Deep Nature Spa includes a fitness center, massage rooms, and pools, all available for a fee. A sauna, hammam, and relaxation room are free to use, as are hot tubs and outdoor pools, though guests have reported them being cold at times. Various activities are offered for travelers of all ages, and the La Cariboo nursery club looks after babies and toddlers. Wi-Fi is free throughout the resort.