Of all the passes immortalized by the Tour de France, Alpe d’Huez (not Alpes d’Huez) is undoubtedly the most famous. It has to be said that this long, 1,120-metre ascent is one of the most spectacular ever. Every cycling enthusiast has dreamed of taking on the greatest on this legendary route. At 14 km from the summit, 21 signs punctuate the cyclists’ effort in a countdown to the summit. From your vacation rental at the A la rencontre du Soleil campsite near Alpe d’Huez, you can also explore the Oisans lakes (Lac Besson, Lac du Carrelet, Lac Noir), the Oz en Oisans ice cave and various walks on the surrounding trails.
Alpe d’Huez is one of the jewels in the crown of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in the Isère département. As well as being one of the most popular peaks for cyclists, it’s also a world-renowned ski resort perched at an altitude of 1,860 meters on a south-facing plateau. Its ski area, Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine Ski, comprises no less than 250 km of pistes and includes the family-friendly resort of Auris en Oisans.
The Pic Blancand the ski area
Mythical resort
It’s impossible to talk aboutAlpe d’Huez without mentioning the appeal of the Pic Blanc, its highest point. Tourists flock to this viewpoint, perched at an altitude of 3,300 metres, to enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramas in France. Offering 360-degree panoramic views, the site is rated three stars in the Michelin Green Guide.
The ski area covers not only Alpe d’Huez, but also Auris, Oz en Oisans, Vaujany and Villard-Reculas. One of the most beautiful ski areas in France, it’s a vast playground where you’re sure to enjoy the snow and as many kilometers of ski runs as possible all season long. A thousand snow guns and numerous lifts are installed throughout the site, between 3,060 and 1,035 meters above sea level. An ideal destination for ski vacations, you can also enjoy many activities other than snowboarding, Nordic skiing or freeriding, including paragliding, mountaineering, or relaxing in a sauna or spa.
The various ski slopesin the area
The alpine domain welcomes skiers of all ages and abilities. The site includes :
- 18 green runs: these are characterized by their gentle, easy-access slopes, and are ideal for children and beginners in particular. They also meet the expectations of skiers who don’t necessarily want to hurtle down mountain passes at high speed.
- 31 blue runs: the slopes here are steeper but at the same time relatively accessible. These are the playgrounds of choice for intermediate skiers. Some of these skiers take up the sport for pleasure or to improve their skills.
- 28 red runs: narrower slopes with occasional bumps. These slopes require more rigor and application, and are especially popular with skiers looking for maximum speed.
- 34 black runs: a real treat for thrill-seekers. On the other hand, they are more technical, with sometimes vertiginous slopes. These are the playgrounds of choice for more seasoned competitors.
The Nordic area includes 6 blue runs and 3 red runs.
Bear in mind, however, that snow conditions and visibility (fog, sunshine…) can also influence the difficulty of the trails. If you’re an intermediate skier, it’s advisable to start with green runs to warm up, before moving on to blue runs.
In terms of prices, the Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine Ski area offers three options:
- Pedestrian 1 day: €21
- Adult 1 day: €54.50
- Children 1 day: 44.50 €.