Activities 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.

Mountain biking

Alpe d’Huez offers more than 260km of mountain biking trails across every kind of terrain, from glacier descents to forest tracks. With lift access, bike buses and gear hire available, getting started is easy.

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.

See our Ski Areas, Pistes & Parks

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.

See our Climbing Guide

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.

See our History Guide

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.

See our Cycling Guide

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.

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.

Mountain-biking & Fat-biking in Alpe d'Huez

Alpe d’Huez is a great spot for mountain biking, with something for every kind of rider. From the high snowy slopes of the Pic Blanc at 3,330m right down to Allemont at 720m, the trails take you across rocky ridges, alpine meadows, forest tracks and even glacier beds. You’ll find over 260km of routes connecting eight different villages, all linked by summer lifts and bike buses, so getting around is easy. And if you haven’t brought your kit with you, don’t worry – there are plenty of places to hire bikes and gear once you arrive.

See our Mountain Biking Guide

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.

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.

See our Hiking & Walking Guide

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.

See our Watersports Guide