Everything you need for your Alpe d'Huez ski holiday.
24th April, 2025
5 min read time
With its expansive 250 km (155 mi) of sun-kissed, high-altitude terrains, Alpe d’Huez is a haven for both seasoned skiers and newcomers. Set on a sunlit plateau and enveloped by a magnificent snow bowl, this resort is one of the premier French ski resorts, offering thrilling runs and enticing off-piste adventures.
We've created this guide to make planning your Alpe d'Huez ski holiday easy. You'll discover everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and even the best places to grab a bite or relax after skiing. At the end, you'll also find a downloadable resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.
Alpe d'Huez is located in southeastern France, in the Isère department, approximately 60 km (37 mi) southeast of Grenoble.
Nearest airport
Grenoble Alpes Isère Airport: 100 km (62 mi)
Transfer time
Grenoble Alpes Isère Airport: 1hr 31
Alpe d'Huez the resort
Resort altitude: 1,869 m (6,131 ft)
Resort permanent residents: ~1700
Alpe d'Huez, renowned as a sun-drenched haven with its epithet l’Isle au Soleil (The island in the sun), boasts over 300 sunny days annually. The resort is a modern marvel that celebrates its sprawling terrain and breathtaking panoramas across the Southern Alps. While it is acknowledged for its vivacity, especially with iconic après-ski venues like the Folie Douce, Alpe d'Huez maintains a layered charm with its distinct quarters, ranging from the bustling Avenue des Jeux centre to the charming, historical Vieil Alpe sector. The expansive ski domain is a constellation of five ski resorts, interwoven with two picturesque mountain villages including Vaujany and Villard-Reculas. Vaujany, with its rustic allure, provides a serene alternative linked conveniently to Alpe d’Huez by chairlift. Families gravitate towards the resort for its affable ambiance and diverse accommodation spectrum, which spans from contemporary apartments to traditional chalets, and from luxurious hotels to cozy B&Bs.
Pros
Cons
Massive, and diverse ski area
Beginners ski area is above tree line, therefore vulnerable to extreme weather
Amazing off-piste opportunities
Difficult public transportation to the resort
High sunny slopes, and amazing views
Sprawling resort with a mis-match of accommodation styles
Efficient, and modern lift network
Overcrowded ski runs in high season
Here is how Alpe d'Huez looks like
This short video provides a glimpse of everything Alpe d'Huez has to offer.
Alpe d'Huez, as part of the vast Alpe d'Huez Grand Domaine ski area, offers over 250 km (155 mi) of ski runs, comprising 41 green, 34 blue, 40 red, and 16 black pistes, all accessible via 84 lifts. The ski area is divided into several unique sectors:
Auris-en-Oisans: this sector is known for its family-friendly environment and sunny slopes. With a variety of green and blue runs, it's perfect for beginners and intermediates looking to enjoy a relaxed skiing experience with stunning views.
La Garde and Le Freney: these areas offer a quieter, more traditional mountain village feel. The runs here are great for those seeking a serene skiing atmosphere away from the busier main slopes of Alpe d’Huez.
Oz-en-Oisans: characterized by its accessibility and compact nature, Oz-en-Oisans is ideal for families and beginners.
Vaujany: this sector combines charm with modern facilities and offers diverse slopes suitable for all levels.
Villard-Reculas: known for its rustic charm and scenic routes, Villard-Reculas runs are suitable for a range of abilities, offering both challenging and leisurely options.
Skiing in Alpe d'Huez
Beginners
Beginners have access to a range of gentle nursery slopes and complimentary lifts for initial practice before advancing to the numerous green runs within the main ski area.
Intermediates
Intermediate skiers will find Alpe d'Huez to be a paradise, with broad, gliding blue and red runs across the Sarenne and Marmottes sectors, and access to the vast Grandes Rousses ski domain. With a multitude of options at every level, including some of the highest skiable slopes on the Pic Blanc, intermediate skiers are spoiled for choice.
Advanced
Alpe d'Huez doesn't shortchange the seasoned skiers and snowboarders either, with its demanding moguls, steep black runs, couloirs, and outstanding off-piste opportunities. Standout runs include the formidable Sarenne and the challenging mogul fields of the Tunnel.
Off-piste
The best off-piste areas include the Glacier de Sarenne, the Combe Charbonniere, and Pic Blanc, providing an assortment of challenging trails with diverse and thrilling terrain.
Snowboarding
Catering to both beginners and advanced riders, the resort boasts two dynamic snowparks. The main snowpark, strategically located by the DMC, is lauded for its innovative design, encompassing everything from an introductory beginner line to a challenging big airbag jump. Depending on snow conditions, boarders can also enjoy a half-pipe, boardercross, and a variety of rails. For those starting out or seeking a more relaxed experience, there's a secondary, smaller park above Vaujany equipped with a few kickers and bumps.
Alpe d'Huez ski season dates
The ski season in Alpe d'Huez typically runs from early December to late April. While the official 2025/26 opening and closing dates have not yet been confirmed, we’ll update this page as soon as they are announced. Please note that these dates can vary depending on snow conditions and other operational factors. Planning ahead? Don’t forget to check out our Alpe d'Huez ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Alpe d'Huez snow history
Alpe d'Huez offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 39 cm (15.3 in) and 33 cm (12.9 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.9 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 29 cm (11.4 in) but occurs more frequently, averaging 3 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the second week of December, traditionally the snowiest week in Alpe d'Huez, with an impressive 50 cm (19.6 in) of snow over 3.2 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 20 cm (7.8 in) of snow over 3.1 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
The resort boasts a rich tapestry of dining options, from traditional Savoyard eateries to innovative gourmet establishments. Highlights include:
La Fruitiere: situated at the top of the Marmottes lift and adjoining the Folie Douce, the restaurant offers a gourmet cuisine including Savoyard specialities.
La Plage des neiges: easily accessible, and open for both lunch and dinner the restaurant offers homemade traditional French cooking.
L'Altiport: a gastronomic restaurant renowned for its great quality, beautiful terrace and amazing views.
Au Montagnard: a popular choice among tourists and locals alike
La Crémaillère: situated in a rustic log cabin, it is known for its family-style roasted meat dishes and raclette.
Au Grenier: renowned for its homey feel, and traditional French cuisine.
La Petite Taverne: an inviting restaurant known for its friendly atmosphere and Savoyard gastronomy
La Pomme de Pain: adored for its panoramic views, it offers an inventive menu that highlights the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Things to do in Alpe d'Huez
Paragliding
Indoor climbing
Horse-drawn sleigh rides
Snowshoeing
Swimming
Spa & wellness
Ice skating
Hot air ballooning
Cinema
Tobogganing
Snowmobiling
Dog sledding
Helicopter flying
Alpe d'Huez après-ski and nightlife
Alpe d’Huez is renowned for its energetic après-ski scene, offering a plethora of venues, including:
La Folie Douce: a celebrated après-ski venue that can be reached via the Marmottes chairlift. This hotspot offers a unique fusion of mountaintop revelry with live DJs, performers, dancers, and its signature Champagne showers.
Underground Bar: located at the base of the Signal chairlift, it is known for its dynamic après-ski parties showcasing live music performances daily.
Smithy's Tavern: a sought-after gathering place that regularly hosts live music and DJs.
Freeride Café: a popular bar renowned for its fun-filled parties and traditional French vin chaud
