Activities in Alpe d'Huez
Discover the top Alpe d'Huez activities
The main draw for people coming to Alpe d'Huez in winter is, of course, skiing and snowboarding. However, there’s other activities to do in both winter and summer.
Whether you're just looking for something to do when the lifts close or you simply don't ski, we promise you'll have no time to get bored here!
What to do in Alpe d'Huez?
Alpe d'Huez is an outdoor-lovers paradise. The Alpine town and its surrounding mountains offer hundreds of things to do for every ability and every age. Some activities are perfect for solo travellers whilst others are more suited to romantic couples.
Families and groups will also find a wide range of things to do in Alpe d'Huez. From relaxing to full-on adrenaline, from child-friendly to adults-only, from outdoor fun to indoor bad-weather activities, there is something for everyone in Alpe d'Huez.
Top things to do in Alpe d'Huez
Below are our three favourite activities in Alpe d'Huez but there are plenty more to choose from.
Winter sports, skiing and snowboarding
Skiing and snowboarding are probably the most popular activities in Vaujany. But we're not only talking about lift-assisted, downhill skiing and snowboarding – there's a whole host of activities that involve boards strapped onto your feet including ski touring and split boarding, cross-country skiing or telemarking.
There's much more than just skiing and snowboarding in Alpe d'Huez in the winter - you can go snowshoeing and husky-dog sledging, and the ice skating rink will keep the whole family entertained.
Walking, hiking and running
In the summer, Vaujany pistes turn into meadows and deep-forested trails to explore on foot. From easy valley strolls to gruelling trail running climbs, everyone can explore the valley's beautiful sunny landscapes.
Check out the selection of things to do below for some holiday inspiration – you'll see that there are plenty of alternatives to skiing and snowboarding in Alpe d'Huez.

Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding in Alpe d'Huez
Skiing and snowboarding are the main reasons people come to Alpe d’Huez, and it’s easy to see why. Sitting at 1,860 metres with pistes reaching up to 3,330 metres, the resort is known for its reliable snow cover and long season. With a vast lift system and a wide variety of runs, it caters to all levels from beginners to experienced skiers. You’ll also find cross-country trails, ski touring routes and ski joering if you're keen to try something different. Whether you're after gentle cruising runs or steeper challenges, there’s plenty of terrain to explore.
Climbing in Alpe d'Huez
Climbing in Alpe d’Huez comes in many forms, from family-friendly rock climbing to more adventurous routes across the Oisans and Ecrins ranges. There are bolted outdoor walls like the west-facing cliffs at Lac Besson, plus options further afield in Venosc, La Bérarde and La Chalp. If you're new to climbing or prefer to stay indoors, head to the Palais des Sports where you'll find a 12 metre wall and bouldering room. In winter, ice climbing is popular on frozen waterfalls and glaciers, and Via Ferrata routes offer a secure way to enjoy the mountains with ladders and cables to guide your way. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced climber, there's plenty to explore.
Guides & Tours in Alpe d'Huez
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ESF off-piste mountain guides, Alpe d'Huez
Located in Alpe d’Huez
This ski school offers off-piste lessons in Alpe d'Huez for those looking to take their skiing or snowboarding to the next level.
Culture and guided tours in Alpe d'Huez
Get a deeper sense of Alpe d’Huez by exploring its museums, galleries and nearby national parks. You can learn about Alpine wildlife and geology at museums in Vaujany, Bourg d’Oisans and Allemont, or discover local heritage at sites like the Brandes ruins, the ice cave and Notre Dame des Neiges church. For a breath of fresh air and a chance to spot marmots or ibex, the Ecrins National Park is just nearby and open year-round to walkers, climbers and curious visitors.
Guides & Tours in Alpe d'Huez
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Brandes Archaeological Site
Located in Alpe d’Huez
The highest medieval village in Europe (XII-XIV) related to the operation of a silver mine.
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Fauna Museum, Vaujany
Learn the secrets of the wildlife of the Oisans. Qualified staff leads this fun and realistic wildlife discovery, using interactive terminals offering a choice of virtual walks with activities featuring mountain fauna.
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Ecrins National Park
Located in Oz en Oisans
The Ecrins National Park is one of the highlights of the Southern Alps region.
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Notre Dame des Neiges Church
Located in Alpe d’Huez
This church's architecture, stained glass windows and organ are great works of art. Come to see them! The church is open every day. The museum of Huez and Oisansalso organises free visit once weekly all year round (rendezvous on the church square).
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Espace Patrimone
Located in Alpe d’Huez
This museum showcases the lives, tools and exploits of miners between the 12th to 14th centuries.
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EDF Hydroelectric Museum, Vaujany
This museum houses permanent and temporary exhibitions about the production of electricity in the valley.

Cycling in Alpe d'Huez
The roads around Alpe d'Huez are the setting for some of the most famous gruelling sections of the Tour de France, but its 21 bends. are not only for the pros - cycling enthusiasts can give it a go also.
To gain the most from your riding in the area, it goes without saying you need to have a reasonable level of fitness. Other than the celebrated 21 bends, there are other cycling routes in the area, most of them starting in Bourg d'Oisans.
Bike Hire in Alpe d'Huez
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Road bike hire
Located in Alpe d’Huez
This shop offers bike hire, premium cycling kit and on-the-spot servicing for riders tackling Alpe d’Huez. Since 2011, it’s been a go-to stop for cyclists looking for performance, style and friendly support.
Flying in Alpe d'Huez
Take to the skies in Alpe d’Huez and enjoy the mountains from a completely different angle. You can book a helicopter tour, light aircraft flight or tandem paragliding experience, all offering breathtaking views over the Oisans region, the Ecrins National Park and beyond. Whether you're gliding silently above the valley or trying a first flying lesson, it’s a memorable way to see the Alps.
Flying in Alpe d'Huez
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Winter and Summer Paragliding
Located in Alpe d’Huez
You'll be sure to enjoy some amazing views and an experience like no other!
Indoor activities in Alpe d'Huez
Cinema
The cinema in Alpe d'Huez has two screening rooms and is on the second floor at Le Palais des Sports. There are normally two screenings per day with screenings at 14:30 when there is bad weather. Closed on Sunday. Look out for VOST for English-speaking films.
Things To Do in Alpe d'Huez
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Cinema L'Agor Alp
Located in Alpe d’Huez
Perfect for a rainy day or you simply have to see the latest blockbuster whilst on holiday, this cinema has two screenings a day and it's closed on Sundays.
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Palais des Sports et des Congres
Located in Alpe d’Huez
The Alpe d'Huez Sports and Conference Centre offers over 20 activities, with free access for Carte Premium holders.

Snow and ice activities in Alpe d'Huez
Swap your skis for something a little different with a wide range of snow and ice activities in Alpe d’Huez. From snowshoeing and glacier walks to husky rides and ice skating, there’s plenty to enjoy off the slopes. You can try ice driving, sledging or snowmobiling for an adrenaline rush, or slow things down with a peaceful winter hike. Many activities are available throughout the season and are suitable for all ages, making them a great option for non-skiers too.
Spas and massages in Alpe d'Huez
If it's calm and relaxation you're after then head to a luxury day spa or book in for massage therapies and beauty treatments.
Most hotels in Alpe d'Huez have spas that are open to the public while there is a public sauna at the Palais des Sports.
Spas in Alpe d'Huez
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Le Pic Blanc spa, Alpe d'Huez centre
Located in Alpe d’Huez
Features a sauna, hammam, indoor pool and Jacuzzi as well as a fitness area.
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Massage Me
Massage Me work across the French Alps and can offer a whole variety of massages and treatments in your own chalet, apartment or hotel.
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Nuxe spa
Located in Alpe d’Huez
Located inside the Chamois d'Or Hotel, at this spa you can enjoy the benefits of the site's high altitude to re-establish your well-being, fitness and vitality.
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Pure Altitude spa
Located in Alpe d’Huez
On crossing the threshold of this spa you enter a space wholly dedicated to wellbeing.
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Physioski massage
Physiotherapy and massage, digestive comfort, muscles and joint balance, foot sole massage, manual therapy.
Walking, hiking and running in Alpe d'Huez
Alpe d’Huez is a brilliant place to explore on foot, whether you’d like a relaxed walk or a full day in the mountains. In summer you’ll find miles of marked trails, alpine lakes and panoramic views, with lift access helping you reach the higher paths. Winter brings groomed walking routes and snow-covered landscapes to explore at your own pace. You can also follow dedicated trail running routes if you fancy picking up the pace.
Walking Routes in Alpe d'Huez
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Le Col de Sarenne
Located in Alpe d’Huez
Beginning directly from Alpe d’Huez, the trail gradually ascends to the Col de Sarenne, which sits at 1,999 metres.
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The Roman Road to Villard-Reculas
Located in Alpe d’Huez
Starting at approximately 1,860 metres near the Vieil Alpe area of the resort, the trail descends through terraced meadows, coniferous woodland, and timeworn hamlets.
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Lacs Noir and Faucille via Signal de l’Homme
Located in Alpe d’Huez
This hike offers so much, making it a top choice for a well-rounded alpine hiking experience.
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Lac Besson loop
Located in Alpe d’Huez
Especially suitable for families or those looking for a relaxed introduction to alpine hiking.
Watersports in Alpe d'Huez
Cool off in the summer with a splash of adventure on the rivers around Alpe d’Huez. From white water rafting and kayaking to canyoning and hydro speeding, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the glacial meltwater. With options for most ages and guided experiences available, it’s a fun and refreshing way to explore the wild side of the mountains.
Watersports in Alpe d'Huez
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Veneon Eaux Vives Watersports, Venosc
Located in Venosc
This watersports centre is located between Venosc and St Christophe, not far from the Ecrins National Park.