Resort information for Alpe-d’Huez

Alpe-d’Huez is a large, modern resort on a high, open, sunny mountainside. It’s a big-league resort, ranking alongside giants like Val d’Isere or La Plagne for the extent and variety of its slopes. Practically all the slopes are above the tree line, and there may be precious little to do when a storm socks in. Alpe-d’Huez is unique among major purpose-built resorts in the Alps in having mainly south- or south-west facing slopes.

The strong southern sun means that late-season conditions may alternate between slush and ice, but, in midwinter the runs are relatively snow-sure, thanks to extensive snowmaking. Even in French holiday periods, the modern lift system ensures there are few long hold-ups. Over much of the area a greater problem than lift queues is that the main pistes can be unbearably crowded. Mountain restaurants are generally good, with some excellent rustic huts – even self-service places are welcoming.

Although developed for skiing, Alpe-d’Huez has grown in a seemingly unplanned, sprawling fashion. It spreads down a gentle slope in a triangular shape from the main lift station at the top corner. The nearest thing to a central focus is the main Avenue des Jeux in the middle, where you’ll find the swimming pool, ice skating and some of the shops, bars and restaurants. The buildings come in all shapes, sizes and designs. Towards the bottom end of the triangle is the original core of the resort, with a couple of streets that have a slightly more traditional feel. Alpe-d’Huez has dozens of restaurants, some of high quality; many offer good value by resort standards. There’s a wide range of bars, some of which get fairly lively later on. Shops are numerous but limited in range.