Northern Alps

OZ 3300

OZ 3300 - Dôme des Rousses

OT Alpe d'Huez

Alpe d'Huez

Pic Blanc - 3330m

Alpe d'Huez - Herpie 3060m

Le signal - 2100m

Lac Blanc - 2700m

DMC 1 - 2100m

Live Herpie - 2735m

Alpe d&rsquo;Huez, situated in the Is&egrave;re region of France, is a renowned resort in the heart of the French Alps, celebrated for its high-altitude skiing, reliable snow conditions, and breathtaking views across the Grandes Rousses massif. With a base elevation of 1,860 metres and a summit reaching 3,300 metres, it boasts a significant vertical drop of 1,440 metres. The resort offers access to an expansive skiable area of 817 hectares and 251 km of pistes, served by 84 lifts. Annual snowfall averages around 432 cm, complemented by extensive snowmaking facilities that ensure consistent coverage throughout the season.
Families and first-time visitors will appreciate Alpe d&rsquo;Huez&rsquo;s pedestrian-friendly centre, diverse accommodation options, and range of activities beyond skiing. Ski schools, childcare services, and beginner zones create a welcoming environment for those travelling with young children. Meanwhile, experienced skiers and snowboarders enjoy its vast terrain and the well-connected neighbouring villages&mdash;including Auris-en-Oisans, Oz-en-Oisans, Vaujany, and Villard-Reculas&mdash;all part of the Grand Domaine ski area.
Alpe d&rsquo;Huez balances world-class skiing with a lively atmosphere. It is one of the most energetic resorts in the French Alps, regularly hosting major events such as Tomorrowland Winter, attracting visitors looking for both adventure and vibrant apr&egrave;s-ski. From wide-open pistes catering to beginners and intermediates, to iconic challenges such as the 16 km Sarenne run, the resort provides a mix of accessible terrain and exhilarating descents. A thriving apr&egrave;s-ski scene, two snow parks, and direct access to high-altitude skiing further cement its reputation as a favourite among British holidaymakers.

Alpe d&rsquo;Huez is well connected, offering several transport options to suit different budgets and travel preferences. The nearest major airport is Grenoble Alpes&ndash;Is&egrave;re Airport, approximately 105 km away, followed by Lyon-Saint Exup&eacute;ry (150 km) and Geneva (220 km). Seasonal coach services and private transfers operate from these airports, providing direct access to the resort. Travellers arriving by train can reach Grenoble station via TGV services from Paris and other major cities, with regular coach and shuttle connections running from Grenoble to Alpe d&rsquo;Huez.
Driving is another convenient option, especially for families or groups carrying ski gear. The resort is accessible via the D1091 and the mountain road from Bourg d&rsquo;Oisans, which features a series of hairpin bends but remains well-maintained and open year-round, weather permitting. Once in Alpe d&rsquo;Huez, free shuttle buses connect key sectors and neighbouring villages, making it easy to navigate the area without a car. For many British visitors, flying into Grenoble and booking a coach transfer remains the most practical and cost-effective travel choice.

Alpe d&rsquo;Huez offers a variety of accommodation options to match different budgets and preferences, including self-catering apartments, traditional chalets, family-friendly lodges, and luxury hotels. Many properties feature ski-in/ski-out access, providing direct convenience to the pistes and lifts. Couples and groups can enjoy boutique hotels with spa facilities, while families benefit from larger residences with play areas, ski storage, and flexible dining options. Modern apartments near the Bergers and Vieil Alpe sectors provide easy access to the slopes, along with nearby shops and restaurants.

Breakfast
<a href="http://www.alpedhuez.com/en/winter/resort/restaurants?id=sitraRES467385">Au Trappeur</a>, Rond Point des Pistes, 38750 Alpe d&rsquo;huez (04 76 79 29 34). Open from 7am for toasted sandwiches, croissants and good coffee on the terrace or at the bar. A great start to the day before catching the first lift up the mountain.
<a href="http://www.alpedhuez.com/en/winter/resort/restaurants/fast-food-restaurants?id=sitraRES754329">Caf&eacute; Gourmand</a>, La Menandiere, 38750 Alpe d&rsquo;Huez (09 82 61 05 51). Great place for a quick stop-and-grab breakfast. Serves crepes, waffles, paninis and croquet-monsieurs to scoff on the ski lift or eat on the south-facing sun terrace. Wash it down with a hot chocolate, tea or coffee. Open from 8:30am.
Lunch
<a href="http://www.restaurant-lesairelles.com/index-en.php">Restaurant Les Airelles</a>, Domaine de l&rsquo;Alpe d&rsquo;Huez, Vaujany, Montfrais (04 76 80 79 78). This traditional mountain hut is built into the rock and is renowned for its roaring log fire. There&rsquo;s a daily set menu offering salads, soups, omelettes, grilled meats and specialities like burgers with Reblochon cheese and &lsquo;pot au feu&rsquo; with truffles. Sit in one of three dining areas or out on the large sun terrace. From the second stage of the Vaujany-Alpe d'Huez cable car, you can reach Les Airelles by following the Les Rousses piste as far as the middle station of the cable car at Alpette, then follow signs for Montfrais. You can also get there on foot via the Montfrais bubble lift&nbsp;and a short travelator.
<a href="http://www.aublenoir.fr/">Au Ble Noir</a>, Chemin des Bergers, 38750 Alpe d&rsquo;Huez (04 57 30 00 73). Housed in a beautifully restored old barn in the centre of town, serves traditional French dishes like crepes and fondues as well as wood fire specialities. Open from 12-2pm and 7-9:30pm.&nbsp;
Dinner
High-end
<a href="http://www.alpedhuez.com/en/winter/resort/restaurants?id=sitraRES466589">Au P&rsquo;tit Creux</a>, Chemin des Bergers, 38750 Alpe d&rsquo;huez (04 76 80 62 80). Housed in a beautifully restored alpine building with a south-facing sun terrace and cosy pine interior. Typical French dishes are served for lunch and dinner and average around &euro;48. House favourites include foie gras, carr&eacute; d&rsquo;agneau and mango tatin.
Mid-range
<a href="http://www.alpedhuez.com/en/winter/resort/restaurants?id=sitraRES465846">Au Grenier</a>, Avenue de Brandes, 38750 Alpe d&rsquo;huez (04 76 80 64 11). This reasonably priced restaurant serves traditional French dishes.&nbsp; Specialities include veal with Beaufort cheese and Cassolette de St. Jacques (scallop casserole). Open for lunch and dinner with a large south-facing terrace and cosy interior.
<a href="http://www.smithystavern.com/smithys_adh_main.html#restaurant">Smithy&rsquo;s Tavern</a>, Route du Coulet, 38750 Alpe d&rsquo;Huez (04 76 11 32 29). This centrally located bar and restaurant appeals to all ages and has a solid reputation as a good-value eatery (mains start at &euro;13). The Tex-Mex menu features nachos, fajitas and burritos as well as plenty of bloodier options for enthusiastic carnivors, like homemade burgers, fillet steaks and the rack of ribs. Also has a lively apr&egrave;s-ski scene with live music. Opens from 5pm Mon-Fri; from 10am Sat; from 2:30pm Sun.
Economy
<a href="http://www.alpedhuez.com/en/winter/resort/restaurants?id=sitraRES754353">Pizza Tchao</a>, Galerie de l&rsquo;Ours Blanc, 38750 Alpe d&rsquo;Huez (04 76 80 38 98). Serves a choice of 70 pizzas, as well as fondue and raclette, to eat in or takeaway. Buy four pizzas, get fifth one free.
Apres/Nightlife
<a href="http://www.alpedhuez.com/en/winter/resort/bars-nightclubs-cafes?id=sitraLOI768039">The Underground</a>, Chemin de la Chapelle, 38750 Alpe d&rsquo;huez (04 76 80 31 19). This bar in Vieil Alpe has a cool vibe &ndash; with beer mats on the walls and snowboards on the ceiling. Popular with both locals and visitors, The Underground is a renowned bar in these parts and hosts live music most nights. It also offers Sky Sports and snacks.
<a href="http://www.alpedhuez.com/en/winter/resort/bars-nightclubs-cafes?id=sitraLOI786575">The Sporting</a>, Avenue des Jeux, 38750 Alpe d&rsquo;Huez (04 76 80 33 45). This is one of the few late-night bars in town and isn&rsquo;t cheap but is the place to be for VIPs and party lovers. Live DJ music most nights. Expect to pay &euro;10 for a beer.
&nbsp;

Alpe d&rsquo;Huez boasts a vast and diverse terrain, covering 251 km of interconnected pistes across several satellite resorts, offering a true sense of exploration. The Grand Domaine ski area encompasses Auris-en-Oisans, Oz-en-Oisans, Vaujany, and Villard-Reculas, each providing distinct skiing experiences. The resort&rsquo;s 84 lifts include high-speed gondolas, chairlifts, and surface lifts, minimising wait times and ensuring efficient connections across the mountain. The primary sector above Alpe d&rsquo;Huez features broad, open slopes with reliable sunshine, making it particularly appealing for beginners and intermediates.
With 28% of its runs designed for beginners, Alpe d&rsquo;Huez offers excellent learning conditions, including nursery slopes with free lifts and accessible greens and blues. The Les Bergers and Rond Point sectors provide gentle terrain for confidence-building, with easy lift access such as Romains and the Tron&ccedil;on cable car. Intermediate skiers, who account for 30% of the resort&rsquo;s visitors, can enjoy long descents towards Oz and Vaujany, as well as red runs offering a gradual challenge.
Advanced and expert skiers have plenty to explore, with 30% of the pistes classified as advanced and 12% marked for experts. The legendary Sarenne black run, at 16 km, is one of Europe&rsquo;s longest descents, beginning near Pic Blanc and winding through varied alpine scenery. Other demanding options include steep drops from Clocher de Macle and Col de Cluy, which offer space for confident carving while avoiding crowds.
Snowboarders and freestyle skiers benefit from two snow parks, featuring jumps, rails, and boardercross tracks. While the advanced park challenges experienced riders, the beginner-friendly setup allows newcomers to develop their skills. Snow coverage remains reliable throughout the season, supported by the resort&rsquo;s altitude and snowmaking systems.
Beyond the marked pistes, Alpe d&rsquo;Huez offers exceptional off-piste terrain. High-altitude bowls and couloirs near the Glacier de Sarenne and Combe du Loup attract adventurous skiers, though guided exploration is strongly advised due to avalanche risk. The panoramic views from Pic Blanc are another highlight, providing breathtaking vistas over the French Alps.

For optimal snow conditions and quieter slopes, late January to early February is an excellent time to visit. These weeks typically offer prime skiing weather while avoiding the peak holiday crowds. Mid-week sessions are particularly enjoyable, with peaceful runs towards Villard-Reculas and Montfrais in Vaujany, which see fewer visitors than the central resort areas. After fresh snowfall, the upper slopes near Le Tunnel retain powder longer due to their elevation and aspect, making them ideal for early-morning runs.
For a different experience, taking the lift to Pic Blanc at sunrise offers a stunning perspective over the surrounding peaks, followed by an exhilarating descent down the Sarenne. Lunchtime crowds can be avoided by heading to La Plage des Neiges above Auris, where hearty meals and a quieter atmosphere provide a welcome break. The bars in Vieux Alpe are worth exploring for their intimate, local feel, often featuring live music in a more traditional apr&egrave;s-ski setting.
Outside of skiing, Alpe d&rsquo;Huez offers several unique activities, from ice skating in the resort centre to an underground ice cave at 2,700 metres, showcasing intricate sculptures carved from the glacier. For families, the floodlit sledging area near Bergers is a lively evening option, while night-time snowshoe hikes provide a serene way to experience the mountain after dark.

The nearest major airport to the Alpe d'Huez ski resort is Lyon-Saint-Exup&eacute;ry Airport (LYS), located approximately 2 to 2.5 hours away by road. Skiers seeking alternative flight options may also consider Grenoble Alpes-Is&egrave;re Airport (GNB), which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, offering additional choices for reaching the breathtaking slopes of Alpe d'Huez.

Far from crowded beaches and the hustle and bustle of city life, Alpe d&rsquo;Huez invites you to gain altitude and explore a suspended continent where everyone can live at their own pace. Situated at 1,860 metres on the Grandes Rousses massif, the resort has been welcoming guests since 1936. Its iconic Pic Blanc peak rises to 3,330 metres, offering a breathtaking panorama over the &Eacute;crins National Park and prestigious summits such as La Meije, Mont Blanc, and the Belledonne range. Here, there&rsquo;s no need to choose between relaxation and adventure, culture and nature: everything is possible at Alpe d&rsquo;Huez.
In summer, Alpe d&rsquo;Huez offers a wealth of activities to suit every taste. Mountain biking enthusiasts can enjoy over 309 km of trails and discover the Bike Park, with routes for beginners and experts alike, including the legendary Megavalanche descent. Families and walkers will appreciate the 260 km of marked paths leading to a dozen alpine lakes and spectacular viewpoints. For a change of pace, try the rail sledge for a thrilling ride, or join a guided walk to discover the local flora and fauna. The AgorAlp leisure centre also offers indoor and outdoor activities such as climbing, mini-golf, archery, aquafit, and much more.
Alpe d&rsquo;Huez is not just about sport: it&rsquo;s also a place to recharge and reconnect with nature. Enjoy the heated outdoor pool, treat yourself to a wellness massage, or explore cultural sites like the medieval mining village of Brandes or the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges church with its unique stained glass windows. Free shuttle buses make it easy to reach lakes, alpine gardens and leisure areas. Whether you&rsquo;re seeking adventure, family moments, or a peaceful escape, Alpe d&rsquo;Huez promises a summer where every day is shaped by your own desires.

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Isere

L’Isère, formerly known as the Dauphiné, is a land of contrasts.

When we speak of Isère, we are bound to think of the massif du Vercors, a paradise for potholers with its many caves and chasms. The Vercors, a mountain of moderate altitude, and the Chartreuse region are ideal leisure areas for young and old: Nordic skiing in Autrans, and downhill skiing in Villard de Lans. In summer, marked trails and forest tracks offer numerous opportunities for walking.

With both Alpine foothills and steep slopes, Isère is characterised by terraced landscapes. The Belledone range, with its mountainous slopes, requires a more technical approach, and is perfect for downhill skiing and rock climbing. Finally, in the heart of the Grenoble region, the Oisan with Chamrousse, les Deux Alpes and l’Alpe d’Huez are all major resorts in their own right.

(Source : <a href="http://www.franceguide.com" target="_blank">Maison de la France</a>)

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