Ski resorts
Alpe d’Huez: skiing on the island of the sun and where to stay
Sunshine from morning to night, one of the longest black runs in the Alps and the famous hairpin bends of the Tour de France. This is Alpe d’Huez, and the hotels with ski-in/ski-out access.
Alpe d’Huez is known as the island of the sun, and for good reason. The resort sits on a south-facing mountain ledge high above the valley, and the sun follows you from the first turns in the morning to the last run of the afternoon. For many, it is precisely the light and warmth that make Alpe d’Huez a favourite.
In summer the resort is famous from the Tour de France, with its legendary hairpin bends up the mountainside. In winter the skiers take over, in one of the largest ski areas in France.
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The island of the sun
Alpe d’Huez lies in the Oisans region of Isère, with the Grandes Rousses massif as a backdrop. Its south-facing position brings plenty of sunshine, and the village terraces fill with people enjoying the light over a coffee or a glass of wine.
Pic Blanc and the Sarenne
From the top of Pic Blanc you look out over much of the French Alps. From here starts the Sarenne, considered one of the longest black runs in the Alps. The long descent through the valley is a classic for experienced skiers, and an experience you will remember.
The slopes of Alpe d’Huez
The ski area offers runs for every level, from wide, sunny family pistes around the village to steep descents high up. Several villages are also linked to the ski area, bringing variety and new views throughout the week.
A day in Alpe d’Huez
The morning starts with ski-in/ski-out access and a trip up to Pic Blanc, where the views are magnificent. After lunch on a sunny terrace, the brave can take on the Sarenne while others relax on the wide pistes.
In the afternoon it is time for the spa and après-ski, before the evening brings Savoyard food in the village.
When is the best time to visit Alpe d’Huez?
The season usually runs from December to April. January often brings cold, clear days, while March offers plenty of sunshine and longer days. Half term and Easter are busy, so book early.
Skiing with children in Alpe d’Huez
Alpe d’Huez has ski schools, children’s areas and plenty of gentle runs around the village. The sunshine makes the days especially pleasant for little ones, and distances in the village are short.
Food and evenings in Alpe d’Huez
Evenings in Alpe d’Huez are relaxed. Restaurants serve fondue, raclette and tartiflette, and many hotels have their own restaurants and spas. The après-ski is lively in season, but there are also quiet places for a calm dinner.
The Tour de France hairpins
The road up to Alpe d’Huez is famous for its hairpin bends, which have produced many dramatic Tour de France stages. In winter you drive them on your way up to the slopes, and it is easy to picture the cyclists battling up the same climb.
Getting to Alpe d’Huez
The nearest airport is Grenoble, with Lyon and Geneva also good options. From there you drive or take a transfer up to Alpe d’Huez.
Where to stay in Alpe d’Huez
In Alpe d’Huez you can stay ski-in/ski-out with sunshine on the terrace. Here are two hotels we would happily choose.
Grandes Rousses Hotel & Spa: ski-in/ski-out
A luxury hotel with ski-in/ski-out access and a spa.
Book your stay: See rooms at Grandes Rousses Hotel & Spa
Royal Ours Blanc Boutique Hôtel & Spa: art deco and spa
An art deco hotel with a spa, close to Les Grandes Rousses.
Book your stay: See rooms at Royal Ours Blanc Boutique Hôtel & Spa
Want to compare? See all our ski resorts or read about skiing in Val Thorens.
Frequently asked questions about skiing in Alpe d’Huez
Where should I stay in Alpe d’Huez?
Grandes Rousses Hotel & Spa offers ski-in/ski-out access and a spa, while Royal Ours Blanc is an art deco boutique hotel with a spa.
Why is Alpe d’Huez called the island of the sun?
Alpe d’Huez sits on a south-facing mountain ledge and enjoys many hours of sunshine through the winter.
What is the Sarenne?
The Sarenne is a black run from Pic Blanc, considered one of the longest black runs in the Alps.
How do you get to Alpe d’Huez?
Fly to Grenoble, Lyon or Geneva and drive or take a transfer up to Alpe d’Huez.