Alpe d'huez ski and snowboard resort

Alpe d’huez is a large winter sports resort with an extensive choice of high altitude, snow sure skiing throughout the winter season. The lift system extends down to Vaujany and other smaller satellite villages, offering a varied and interesting area for skiers, snowboarders and telemarkers. Alpe d’huez is an excellent winter resort for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Beginners will find the wide open slopes above the town perfect for boosting confidence. Intermediate, advanced skiers and snowboarders will find plenty of action on the long and sometimes challenging terrain.

Over the years Alpe d’huez has grown in all directions along a sunny balcony above the beautiful Oisans Valley. Lifts link the various sectors of the village, which provide a practical base for some excellent skiing, snowboarding and telemarking for all abilities. The lift system in Alpe d’huez also extends to the satellite village of Vaujany offering extensive skiing and snowboarding options. A qualified ski instructor, snowboard teacher or mountain guide will let you make the most of this extensive region.

Alpe d’huez is one of Europe’s top winter resorts and is the centre for the fifth largest ski area in France. Alpe d’huez first started operating back in 1936 with a few hotels and chalets and has now grown into a major ski and snowboard resort of considerable reputation. It was also a venue for the 1968 Winter Olympics based in nearby Grenoble. Alpe d’huez is also well known for a famous stage on the Tour de France cycle race as it winds up the 22 hairpin bends from the valley floor, finishing in the centre of town.

Beginners	Excellent
Intermediates	Excellent
Advanced	Very good
On piste	Excellent
Off piste	Very good
Snowboarding	Excellent
Extensive area	Excellent
Restaurants	Very good
Night life	Very good
Snow record	Excellent
Resort charm	Average

Grenoble	2 hours
Lyon	2.5 hours
Resort altitude	1860 m
Vertical drop	1120 m - 3330 m
Up lift capacity	85 lifts
Piste KM	240

Alpe d’huez has an abundance of choice when it comes to eating out on the mountain. Try La Cabane du Poutat beneath the Marmottes gondola for serious gourmet dining. For simple dishes and the added bonus of an alpine museum, head to La Bergerie which is on the way down to Villard-Reculas. L’Altibar, which is beside the altiport runway, is a real favourite with the locals. Le Signal, offers panoramic views of the whole area.

Alpe d’huez has a huge selection of restaurants, bars and Cafés. Try the Au P’tit Creux with an intimate atmosphere and an excellent reputation. For good value the Passe Montagne is highly recommended. There is an abundance of bars to try in Alpe d ’huez. Try the Underground and Le Sporting where festivities go on until the early hours. Also popular and highly recommended are the Crowded House and the O Bar.