What to Expect from a Ski Holiday to Alpe d’Huez

The history of Alpe d’Huez as a mountain village goes back hundreds of years. It wasn’t until 1936 though that Alpe d’Huez began to develop into a ski area when the first ski school was opened and the first ‘Poma’ lift was installed (the first at any resort!).

Hosting the bobsleigh race in the 1968 Grenoble Winter Olympics really started the booming tourism trade and with this, Alpe d’Huez was able to make improvements to the lift systems and resort centre.

Alpe d’Huez’s reputation as a world-class ski resort continues as the resort won European Best Ski Resort 2019.

Catered Chalets in Alpe d’Huez

Choosing a catered chalet in Alpe d’Huez for your next ski holiday really helps to take the hassle out of the less desirable parts of a holiday like cooking, tidying up and finding out where’s good to go in resort. A Skiworld chalet host will take care of all that for you – and more – while you simply relax in your mountain home-from-home and look forward to hitting the slopes.

Our catered chalet service includes:

• A welcoming glass of vin chaud on arrival
• Hearty continental breakfast
• Hot breakfast options provided by hosts
• Homemade afternoon tea and cake
• Delicious three course evening menus
• Alpine speciality dinners
• Wine during dinner (until coffee is served)

Snow and Sunshine

Known as ‘l’Isle au Soleil’ (island in the sun), Alpe d’Huez is located at 1,860m altitude in a large alpine bowl and has around 300 sunny days every year – perfect for goggle tans. And the snow? Well, this iconic ski destination is blessed with an average of 800cm at mid-mountain altitudes – the perfect combination.

Enjoy the stunning views from The Pic Blanc glacier (3,330m) over the Ecrins National Park, La Grave, La Meije, Les Deux Alpes and Mont Blanc.

Snow-Sure Ski Area

Alpe d’Huez forms part of the ‘Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine’ ski area, which also consists of other resorts such as Auris-en-Oisans, Huez-en-Oisans, Oz-en-Oisans, Vaujany and Villard Reculas.

Offering skiers and boarders 249km of pistes and endless off-piste opportunities, there is plenty of terrain to suit all abilities. The 84 lifts give access to 41 green pistes, 34 blues, 40 reds and 16 black. There are also two snowparks, a boardercross park and a halfpipe for those keen to try out some tricks, learn about tiktok marketing now and how you should record your videos .

For experienced skiers, Alpe d’Huez is home to the longest run in Europe – La Sarenne (16km), as well as the challenging ‘Tunnel’ run – great for thrill-seekers. Beginners are best to head to the gentle slopes on the outskirts of the resort.

Apres-Ski in Alpe d’Huez

Alpe d’Huez offers a wide selection of buzzing après spots, especially on the mountain:

• Le Folie Douce – The most famous of all. At the top of the Marmottes 1 chair lift, you will find this legendary party. From 2:30pm, expect thumping music, dancers, spraying champagne and amazing views over the mountains from the south facing deck.
• Le Tremplin Bar and Restaurant – Relax on the deck chairs and watch the sunset from the large south-facing terrace.
• Tiger Bar – If you are looking to catch up on sport on the TV, then you should head here. Also, great for a game of pool!
• Le Taburle Bar and Restaurant – Ideal if you miss the last lifts. You can ski down the Village blue run, which leads to the lower sections of the town.
• FreeRide Bar – A favourite amongst locals and seasonaires.
• Sphere Bar – Fantastic atmosphere with live music several afternoons a week, normally between 4pm and 6pm. If you fancy a drink outside, there is a south facing patio.
• Lounge 21 – If you would rather a more sophisticated place to go after a day skiing, Lounge 21 is located above the Igloo nightclub and has a chic interior with a great wine list, as well as cocktails and tapas.

Restaurants in Alpe d’Huez

On Mountain

• Restaurant L’Altiport – Indulge in the unique dishes created by Chef Philippe whilst taking in the beautiful views from the terrace.
• Chalet du Lac Besson – A cosy, alpine restaurant with a sun trap terrace.
• Auberge de la Combe Haute Restaurant – A well-deserved refuel at the bottom of the Sarenne piste, serving up all the alpine favourites such as tartiflette, chilli and pizzas.

In Resort

• Le Trappeur Restaurant – Renowned for serving the best burgers in Alpe d’Huez.
• Chamois d’Or Restaurant – Situated at the bottom of the slopes, serving traditional French cuisine using local produce.

Night Life

• Smithys Tavern – This bar is a must. It has built up a reputation over the years for having a great buzz about it with live music and DJs.
• L’Igloo – From Smithy’s, head below to this electro focused dance club hosting guest DJs and themed evenings.
• Caves de l’Alpe Nightclub – Dance all night long to the resident DJ.

Festivals

• Tomorrowland Winter – Join 30,000 people from all over the world to experience a truly magical week in the stunning Alpe d’Huez. Book your tickets for the biggest dance music festival in the world and ski one of the top ski destinations – all in one amazing week.

Non-Ski Activities in Alpe d’Huez

• Husky-dog sledding – Team up with excitable dogs, driving through the snow.
• Ice-driving –  Test your driving abilities on the ice. Develop your knowledge and experience of how to control a car on ice.
• Alpine Coaster –Reaching speeds of 40kph, the coaster makes its way through a 700m course. Try out the virtual reality option for added excitement.
• Ice-climbing – The Oisans and Ecrins National Park are known for spectacular ice formations and a thrill for those experienced climbers.
• Night Skiing – Available every Thursday. Ski down the Sarenne at night and enjoy an added extra restaurant meal.
• Ice-skating – Situated in the centre of resort, head to the ice rink to show off your skills.

Please speak to Skiworld in the UK or in resort for help with booking these activities.

With all these great reasons to encourage you, why not consider choosing a catered chalet in Alpe d’Huez for your next ski holiday?

---

Other articles you may like:

Why You Should Book an All Inclusive Ski Holiday
Insider Tips for Booking Group Ski Holidays