The Rif Nel Altitude 3300 project in Alpe d'Huez

Rif Nel cable cars Altitude 3300 project

Altitude 3300 in Alpe d'Huez

Major transformation project for Alpe d'Huez ski area

Imprint: By Tracy Wise, Updated 2 September 2025

“Today’s summits, tomorrow’s experiences” is the strapline SATA Group – AEON in Alpe d’Huez has adopted to promote its Altitude 3300 project. Driven by a long-term vision, the initiative involves replacing several ski lifts to provide a smoother, more efficient link between the resorts in the area, and to improve access to the iconic Pic Blanc summit (3,300m).

The project will see six ski lifts replaced and their stations completely renovated. By 2030, the five resorts of Oz 3300, Villard Reculas, Vaujany, Auris-en-Oisans and Huez will be far better connected under the Altitude 3300 scheme, easing pressure on the network and making year-round access simpler.

For visitors, that means more direct routes, shorter queues and greater comfort. A good example is the Rif Nel cable car, which is set to become a gondola lift stretching up to 2,100m. From there, a new station will provide direct access to the Pic Blanc summit at 3,300m. With 84 ten-seat cabins carrying 3,500 people per hour, journeys through the area will be far smoother.

Environmental considerations also sit at the heart of the plans. The new system will use less energy and make travel between the resorts more efficient, supporting a more responsible approach to mountain tourism. Designed with everyone in mind – from skiers and hikers to families, cyclists and those with reduced mobility – the project aims to ensure the mountains remain accessible and enjoyable for all.

The Altitude 3300 schedule of works

2024

renovation of the Pic Blanc cable car and modernisation of its departure station

2025

replacement of the Poutran cable car and the Rif Nel telemix with new cable cars
renovation of the Pic Blanc intermediate station 1 (2,100m)
replacement of the Pic Blanc cable car cabins (from 2,700m to 3,300m)