Walking Routes in Alpe d'Huez — 4 of Our Favourites

The route closely follows the path of an old Roman trading road, once used to link alpine communities across the region. 

The trail maintains its historic charm, with cobbled stretches, stone walls, and old cart tracks still visible. Along the way, you'll pass through Huez Village, where traditional houses and chapels provide a sense of stepping back in time. 

As you continue, panoramic views over the Romanche Valley and the Belledonne mountains emerge. 

Eventually, the trail arrives at Villard-Reculas, a small, authentic village known for its wooden chalets and tranquil atmosphere. You may choose to return the same way for a more challenging uphill walk, or opt for a shuttle or taxi back.

Begin the hike near the DMC or Poutran lift station, climbing steadily toward the Signal de l’Homme, which stands at 2,174 metres. 

This peak serves as the high point of the walk and rewards your efforts with commanding views across the Ecrins National Park, including the legendary La Meije and the glacier-capped Pic Blanc. The ascent traverses flowery alpine slopes and rocky ridgelines, providing a sense of mountain adventure without the need for scrambling. 

After reaching the summit, the trail gently descends into a peaceful high-altitude basin, where you’ll find Lac Noir and Lac Faucille. 

The return path loops back toward Alpe d’Huez via a gentle descent. 

The hike is moderate in difficulty but requires good footwear and sun protection due to the open terrain. It’s an ideal route for those looking to explore beyond the resort’s main walking paths.

Starting from the Altiport area of Alpe d’Huez, the route meanders through open alpine meadows and larch woodland, framed by the craggy backdrop of the Grandes Rousses. 

The trail’s highest point sits at around 2,080 metres, though the walk remains relatively flat throughout. 

The jewel of the route is Lac Besson, a beautiful mountain lake nestled in a tranquil basin surrounded by rugged terrain. In summer, this area blooms with alpine wildflowers, and marmots are commonly seen darting through the undergrowth. Interpretation panels provide interesting facts about local plants and wildlife. 

The trail is well-signed and mostly level, making it accessible for children and those unused to high-altitude walking. 

The loop brings you easily back to your starting point near the Altiport, making this a perfect option for a serene and visually rewarding half-day hike.

The route is steady rather than steep, passing through sweeping alpine pastures and grazing land, with increasingly expansive views of the Oisans range as you climb. As you near the top, dramatic cliffs and glacial valleys open up around you, offering superb opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting — particularly eagles, marmots, and occasionally ibex. 

The landscape feels wild and untouched compared to the resort’s busier areas. The Col itself marks a high point historically and geographically, having featured as a memorable stage in the Tour de France. 

From the summit, hikers enjoy commanding views of the Sarenne Gorge and beyond. 

The descent follows the same route, but it’s possible to continue further into the gorge or create a longer circuit by looping back via other trails. 

It’s a highly rewarding walk for those seeking a taste of high alpine terrain without the need for technical equipment or exposure to extreme gradients.