With its expansive 250 km 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.
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Alpe d'Huez is located in southeastern France, in the Isère department, approximately 64 kilometers southeast of Grenoble.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
| 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 |
(Ref: Alpe d'Huez Tourist Office)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The ski season in the Alpe d'Huez for 2024/25 is expected to start on November 30th and run until April 21st. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to the Alpe d'Huez this season, be sure to explore our Alpe d'Huez ski deals for the best ski offers available.
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 and 33 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.9 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 29 cm 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 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 of snow over 3.1 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 39 cm | 3.0 days |
| January | 33 cm | 2.9 days |
| February | 29 cm | 3.0 days |
| March | 32 cm | 3.3 days |
| April | 20 cm | 3.1 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Situated at the top of the Marmottes lift and adjoining the Folie Douce, the restaurant works with local producers, and offers a gourmet cuisine including Savoyard specialities.
Easily accessible, and open for both lunch and dinner the restaurant offers homemade traditional French cooking.
A gastronomic restaurant reknowned for its great quality, beautiful terrace and amazing views.
A popular choice among tourists and locals alike, Au Montagnard offers extremely tasty traditional food at fair prices.
Situated in a rustic log cabin, La Crémaillère is known for its family-style roasted meat dishes and raclette.
Au Grenier is renowned for its homey feel and offers traditional French cuisine, including fondue and raclette.
La Petite Taverne is an inviting restaurant situated in the heart of Alpe d'Huez. Known for its friendly atmosphere and delectable cuisine, it serves a variety of dishes rooted in French tradition, with a particular emphasis on the local Savoyard gastronomy.
La Pomme de Pin adored for its panoramic views, offers an inventive menu that highlights the rich culinary heritage of the region.
One of the standouts in Alpe d'Huez is the infamous 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.
Another noteworthy spot is the Underground Bar, located at the base of the Signal chairlift. Known for its dynamic après-ski parties, it showcases live music performances daily, followed by a DJ playing crowd-pleasing tunes to keep the party-goers animated.
At the heart of Alpe d'Huez, you'll discover Smithy's Tavern, a sought-after gathering place that regularly hosts live music and DJs.
The Freeride Café, a popular bar renowned for its fun-filled parties and traditional French 'vin chaud', is definitely worth a visit.
Download Alpe d'Huez resort map here
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