La Folie Douce
High above the slopes of Alpe d’Huez, La Folie Douce turns après-ski into a spectacular celebration of music, dance, and mountain spirit.
February in Alpe d'Huez: What's on and weather
A busy time in resort after the calm start to the year
It's the school holidays, the resort is full of families, and the snow is already deep in resort.
In February, Alpe d'Huez goes all out to entertain families here on holiday. The ski area will obviously be very busy throughout the month but, thanks to around 100 pistes and 70 lifts being open, the queues shouldn't be too bad.
Read on for a look at what we like to do in resort throughout February.
What are the weather and snow conditions like?
There is still regular snowfall, generally around 14 days, and very much like January the average daily temperatures fall between a high of 0°C and a low of -7°C. This is great news for the piste conditions, but remember to wrap those little ones up nice and warm and very much a time for keeping on those hats, gloves and a thermal under-layer.
School holiday skiing
February is a popular month for families so the slopes are noticeably busier as soon as the four-week French holidays begin. Here are our insider's top tips for the school holidays:
- Group lessons are the best option in the busy period, as private lessons are almost impossible to book - unless you got in early. Make sure to get your ski and snowboard lessons booked well in advance to avoid disappointment.
- If you're not in ski school, be an early bird. Arrive at the lifts before they open so that you get up and away before the ski school classes set out around 09:15.
- Ski over lunchtime when the slopes are calmer (between 12:00 and 14:00) whilst the French take a leisurely lunch break.
- Avoid the queues and make the most of your time in the mountains by pre-booking your lunch reservation - some restaurants offer a Click & Collect service.
- Seek out the peripheral areas and try to avoid the busy main ski areas. A great tip to get away from the madding crowd is to hop onto the AlpAuris lift (aka the 'scare chair') at the Les Bergers area of resort and head across to the Auris sector of the ski area. It’s always much quieter over there and there is something for everybody with plenty of variety.
- Get off-piste. Competent off-piste skiers can book a local mountain guide and explore the vast off-piste areas in the valley or even go touring to find complete solitude in the backcountry.
Nightlife in Alpe d'Huez
If, like most people, you like to follow several hours of exercise with several hours of drinking, you can hit up any of number of après-ski sessions offering great music, delicious food and happy hours.
Bars & Clubs in Alpe d'Huez
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Au Dahu Grillé Restaurant
French run restaurant and bar with a nice terrace to sit out in the sun.
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Prosneige Bar Cafe
Nestled right on the slopes, Prosneige Bar Café offers a unique ski-side experience in Alpe d'Huez. Perfect for families, friends, and solo skiers alike, it’s the ideal spot to take a break, refuel, and soak up the alpine atmosphere.
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Smithy's Tavern
Smithy’s Bar is a true Alpe d’Huez classic - a lively spot that promises great food, great music, and great company. Whether you’re here on a family holiday and need food the kids will love, catching that must-see sports event, or planning dinner for two or thirty, Smithy’s can do it all. The menu is packed with crowd-pleasing favourites, while the bar serves up delicious cocktails, crafty beers, and good vibes from the first sip.
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L'Agua bar
Decorated to create a fun atmosphere, this spot serves a delicious selection of snacks, sushi and yakitori. They also have a small internet café area.
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Chalet du Lac Besson Restaurant
Open throughout the winter and summer seasons, pedestrians and skiers alike can enjoy this mountain restaurant.
Winter Things To Do in Alpe d'Huez
Fun for all in Alpe d'Huez
There's lots and lots for everyone to enjoy that the activity companies in resort work hard to put on every year, whether it's something organised by the tourist office or an event up on the slopes, have a look at what's possible.
Wintersport Things To Do in Alpe d'Huez
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Snowshoe walks
Strap on your snowshoes and explore the winter trails of Alpe d’Huez with a qualified instructor, discovering the mountains at a slower pace and in complete tranquillity. Snowshoe walks are suitable for all ages and require only a basic level of fitness, making them perfect for families, mixed groups, or anyone looking for a peaceful winter escape. Each outing is rated by difficulty, allowing you to choose the walk that best suits your group.
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Biathlon activity
Step away from the bustle of the ski slopes and try your hand at biathlon, a brilliant winter adventure that mixes cross-country skiing with precision rifle shooting. It is an exciting blend of endurance and focus, and it suits mixed groups beautifully. With adapted equipment and clear guidance, it is accessible to absolute beginners as well as those keen to push themselves a little.
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Outdoor synthetic skating rink
Situated in the heart of the main street (Avenue Les Jeux) is the patinoire (ice rink) – in the middle of town underneath the shadow of the Royal Ours Blanc Hotel.
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Evodriver
This company offers instruction on driving around the same ice track that's used for the popular Andros Trophy event and it's guaranteed enjoyment!
February events in Alpe d'Huez
Aside from the romance that may or may not feature in your life on Valentine's Day, you'll find musical programmes and festivals, plus skiing and sporting events to enjoy. Have a look at our events calendar to keep up with all that's going on.
Events in Alpe d'Huez
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International Comedy Film Festival
The International Comedy Film Festival returns to Alpe d'Huez each year with a selection of full-length comedy films and unpublished short films for your viewing pleasure.
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Ice skating gala in Alpe d'Huez
Enjoy a free ice skating show by the figure skating club of Alpe d'Huez during Christmas and the February school holidays.
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Valentine's Day in Alpe d'Huez
If you're looking for a special way of celebrating Valentine's with a loved one then Alpe d'Huez is a great choice.
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Ice Hockey Matches
Free entry to watch the ice hockey show and a match afterwards. It lasts for 2 hours.
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Les Cristaux by Atomic et Vola
A gentle ski race designed with kids in mind, open for 4-12 year olds with gentle slopes, games and gifts for all entrants.
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Tomorrowland
For a whole week in March, Alpe d’Huez surrenders itself to the biggest electro music festival in the world.
More inspiration...
There are plenty of things to do in Alpe d'Huez on and off the slopes, so take a look at what's on offer.
