Especially suitable for families or those looking for a relaxed introduction to alpine hiking.
Lac Besson loop
The Lac Besson loop is a gentle and picturesque trail ideal for walkers of all levels
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.
What to see
Sights in Alpe d'Huez
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Notre Dame des Neiges Church
Church with 13 stained glass windows
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
Cultural museum of miners in the village of Alpe d'Huez
This museum showcases the lives, tools and exploits of miners between the 12th to 14th centuries.
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Brandes Archaeological Site
Medieval archaeological site and ruins
The highest medieval village in Europe (XII-XIV) related to the operation of a silver mine.
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Bourg d'Oisans Museum
Museum of minerals and fauna of the Alps
Located in the attic of the church of Bourg d'Oisans and is accessed by a building to the left of the church.
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Maison du Bouquetin, Allemont
The house of the ibex
The ibex, a typical animal of the Alps fauna which was on the brink of extinction at the end of the 19th century, is now being reintroduced in different parts of the Alps.
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EDF Hydroelectric Museum
From water to electricity, a museum on how hydroelectric power works
This museum houses permanent and temporary exhibitions about the production of electricity in the valley.
Where to lunch
Several picnic spots are located along the lakeshore, offering ideal resting places with superb views.
Restaurants in Alpe d’Huez
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La Folie Douce Petite Cuisine Restaurant
Great value effecient self-service restaurant right in the heart of slopes
This great value self-service restaurant adjoins the Folice Douce and is situated at the top of the Marmottes lift.
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Au Puits des Saveurs Restaurant
Gourmet and creative international cuisine and local dishes in the heart of the resort
Chef Patrice Blot presents a menu full of fusion cuisine, French classics combine with exotic touches for a refined and sophisticated experience.
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L'Authentique Restaurant
Italian and local French specialities to enjoy on the sun terrace or cosy interior
Dine in or on the sun terrace, and choose from a selection of Italian and local French dishes like their "Tartiflette Valdotaine" or the "Lasagne au Reblochon".
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L'Empreinte Restaurant
Intimate, fine-dining restaurant in the heart of Alpe d'Huez serving carefully curated dishes
A popular, small restaurant offering modern French and international cuisine. With seating for only 27 covers, you'll want to book your table well in advance.
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Le Genepi Restaurant
French bistronomic restaurant with beautifully-presented dishes and sunny terrace
Serving modern French brasserie cuisine in a lovely setting, this is a popular restaurant to try good-quality French cuisine in Alpe d'Huez.
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Au Grenier Restaurant
Traditional Savoyard dishes served all year round situated in the centre of the resort
A reasonably priced restaurant serving typical French dishes with specialities such as Cassolette de St Jacques (scallop casserole) and medallion of veal with Beaufort cheese. Also offers a popular vegan wok dish consisting of vegetables, quinoa, rice and tofu.
What to do
Things To Do in Alpe d’Huez
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Snowshoe walks
Private snowshoe walks for friends and family
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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Ski touring
Ski touring for all abilities, with experienced guides, in a friendly and safe environment
Discover the freedom of ski touring and explore the quieter side of Alpe d’Huez, where wide-open landscapes, peaceful summits and fresh air set the tone. With friendly, uncompetitive groups and routes for every level, you can take things at your own pace and enjoy the mountains in a whole new way.
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Family activities
Family fun and friendly competition on snow
Discover a brilliant line-up of family activities in Alpe d’Huez, perfect for bringing everyone together on the snow. Whether your crew loves a challenge, prefers shared adventures or wants to try something completely new, there is an experience for every age and level.
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Biathlon activity
Biathlon group activity for 3-6 people
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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Winter and Summer Paragliding
25min paragliding flight from the top of the slopes in Alpe d'Huez
You'll be sure to enjoy some amazing views and an experience like no other!
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Cinema L'Agor Alp
Two-screen cinema in the Palais du Sport
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.
