The Varet glacier

📍 Arc 2000

A space to raise of glaciers on the Varet terrace

At the top of the Varet cable car, a glacier area is being unveiled. It's a place where skiers can learn more about the glacier that bears its name and learn more about the glaciers that surround them.

An exhibition to raise awareness of how the Varet glacier has evolved over time and the issues surrounding its existence.

The installation fits in with the architecture of the site and the natural environment, inviting visitors to pause for a moment. A suspended moment that aims to educate, inspire and encourage reflection on our shared responsibility towards nature.

Changing use of the ski slope

The latest studies show that the melting of the permafrost (frozen ground on the glacier) is having an impact on the solidity of the infrastructure of the red slope on this emblematic summit.
Faced with these realities, it's our responsibility to act and adapt. We have decided not to carry out any of the improvements and reinforcements initially planned for the red slope on the Varet glacier. All the structures on the piste will be dismantled.

The site of the Aiguille Rouge, the highest peak in the area, will therefore be accessible to good skiers and pedestrians. Visitors will be able to enjoy an exceptional view of the highest Alpine peaks from the Aiguille Rouge footbridge, which overlooks the Hauts de Villaroger Nature Reserve. Skiers can then enjoy a natural descent on a safe, ungroomed black slope.

The Aiguille Rouge becomes black

For several years now, the Varet glacier has been profoundly affected by global warming. The ice is changing, the slope is becoming steeper and some sections of the descent now reach 45 to 46°, significantly altering skiing conditions.

This change makes the descent much more technical and exposed. The Aiguille Rouge piste is now classified as a black run, reserved exclusively for expert skiers capable of skiing on very steep slopes and glaciers. For intermediate or beginner skiers, the return by cable car is strongly recommended to ensure everyone's safety.

Even though the ski descent is becoming more challenging, access to the summit remains open to all. The cable car and panoramic walkway allow everyone to continue enjoying the exceptional views of the Aiguille Rouge in complete safety.

The ‘Aiguille Rouge becomes black’ operation thus makes it possible to adapt skiing to the evolution of the glacier, while preserving access to this iconic summit.