Vanoise Express, Cable car system in Les Arcs and La Plagne, France
Vanoise Express is an aerial cable car connecting Les Arcs and La Plagne with two double-deck cabins that carry 200 passengers total. It crosses the Ponturin Valley over a span of about 1.8 kilometers without requiring intermediate support towers.
The system was built in 2003 by POMA to directly link two major ski areas for the first time. This connection created the region now known as Paradiski and set records for size and passenger capacity at the time.
The station buildings blend wood, metal, and concrete in ways that echo traditional mountain architecture of the region. This combination shows how contemporary structures fit naturally into the landscape here.
The journey takes about four minutes and connects the Peisey-Vallandry and Les Coches stations. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and prepare for mountain conditions, especially in the transition areas around the stations.
The cabins feature transparent floor sections that let passengers look straight down into the valley below. This unusual design element makes the crossing a memorable experience for many visitors.
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