La Plagne is undergoing a major transformation in its high-altitude skiing, and we’re excited to test out the first phase of that this winter writes Johanna from Ice and Fire Ski and Snowboard Holidays. Live3000, a remarkable 26 million euro development project situated between Plagne Bellecote and the La Plagne glacier, is set to revolutionize access to the breathtaking 3000m high-altitude skiing terrain in La Plagne.
The biggest change is the installation of a brand-new 10-seater Glaciers cable car, opening for the upcoming winter season. Departing from Roche de Mio, this state-of-the-art cable car will ascend to a mid-station at the Col de la Chiaupe and reach a summit at a breathtaking altitude of 3000 meters; offering visitors a panoramic view of the stunning Vanoise glaciers. As one of only a few resorts in the area offering skiing above 3000m, increasing the accessibility of the glacier is a pivotal strategic decision for the resort.
Paradiski is an eco-conscious resort committed to improving their social and environmental credentials, and this lift development has been designed with the environment in mind. Precious alpine plants growing in the lift line were moved, and old infrastructure removed to create a protected nature area. The eco-conscious design has allowed them to eliminate 21 ski towers and 14 electrical pylons thereby opening up more space for the natural environment. Education will also play an important part in Live3000 and La Plagne plans to use some of the space to educate on global warming, glacier melt and the changing climate.
Construction progress has been impressive to date, with lift stations and pylons already in place and cabling recently completed ready for the cable car's operational debut in early December. The new glacier cable car boasts increased speed, reliability, and significantly expanded visitor capacity. For the 2023-24 season, the surrounding pistes of the glacier have also been redesigned to optimize space utilization and elevate the overall visitor experience.
