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.

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.

Canoeing / Kayaking

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.

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.

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.

Fishing in Alpe d'Huez

Lake fishing

There are a number of beautiful mountain lakes, rivers and streams where fishing is permitted. 

The lakes in and around Alpe d'Huez are Lac Besson, Lac des Bergers, Lac Blanc, Lac Noir, Lac de la Faucille and Lac de Milieu. 

You can also fish the waterways of the Sarenne, the Rif Nel and the Rif Brillant. You can expect to find rainbow trout ("truite arc en ciel"), brown trout ("truite fario"), brook trout ("saumon des fontaines") and Arctic char ("omble chevalier"), amongst others.

Lac de Bergers is a designated children's fishing area. Each August a competition is held here for all keen anglers up to the age of 13. Situated in resort, just in front of Les Bergers shopping mall, it's easily accessible and a popular summer relaxation spot.

An Alpe d'Huez 'Société de Pêche' (fishing club) license is required for all sites and can be purchased from the tourist office for a day, a week, a month or a season. An AAPPMA fishing licence is also necessary for some sites, enquire locally for details. There are also varying regulations governing the number of fish you can catch, the size of the fish and hours of fishing permitted.

Fitness and swimming in Alpe d'Huez

Stay active in Alpe d’Huez with a choice of indoor and outdoor fitness options. The main sports centre has a well-equipped gym with great views, plus regular classes like Pilates, stretching and Zumba. You can play basketball, football or beach volleyball on outdoor courts in summer, or head indoors year-round. For swimming, the Palais des Sports has both indoor and outdoor pools, with saunas and paddling areas, or you might find your chalet or hotel has its own facilities.

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.

Golf in Alpe d'Huez

Golf course

The golf course at Alpe d'Huez is open every day throughout the summer. The 9-hole golf course is accompanied by a large driving range, pro-shop and a clubhouse serving snacks and drinks. You can also book a pro for a lesson.

Mini golf

Enjoy a few hours of fun in the summer months on the miniature golf course in Alpe d'Huez. Great for some gentle exercise on a sunny day, Alpe d'Huez has a mini-golf course open every day in July and August, on Chemin de Brandes.

Horse riding in Alpe d'Huez

As well as being home to the world-renowned Poutran International Equestrian Training Centre, Alpe d'Huez is a great place to ride just for fun. 

The scenery is stunning and you can cover much more terrain on horseback than on your own two feet! 

Hydro-speeding

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

Alpe d’Huez and the Grandes Rousses are renowned for being an exceptional mountain biking area. Stunning scenery, miles and miles of dedicated MTB routes and summer access to the cable cars make this a fantastic place to put your bike (and you!) through its paces. 

The home of the Megavalanche MTB race, Alpe d’Huez hosts several smaller events and competitions throughout the summer season. 

Have a look at our events calendar to find out what’s happening when. 

In French, mountain biking is called VTT (Vélo Tout-Terrain!).

Paragliding / Parapenting

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.

Tennis and racket sports in Alpe d'Huez

Tennis

Play a game of tennis with friends and family in Alpe d'Huez, a great all year round activity to enjoy in the Alps. 

At the Tennis Outdoor de Brandes there are six courts open every day winter, as well as in July and August. Booking ahead is recommended, especially if you require lessons and they also rent rackets. 

The Palais des Sports also offers two indoor tennis courts and there are 15 table tennis tables.

Squash

You can play squash at the Palais des Sports every day of the week in winter and July and August. There are four courts to choose from and you should book ahead to avoid disappointment. Pay and book in at the main reception desk. Rackets and sports shoes are available to rent.

Badminton

There are a number of badminton courts at the Palais des Sports. The courts are open throughout the summertime. Booking ahead is recommended at any time of year.

Theme parks, waterparks and aquariums in Alpe d'Huez

Archery

Practise your Robin of Sherwood skills in a tranquil Alpine setting. 

Beginners can learn 'tir l'arc' from scratch and those with more experience can put their skills to the test with a variety of courses. There is a practice range up by the summer luge where you can hire the equipment and take the advice of an instructor and another one as in the nearby Vaujany Tennis Club. 

The Palais des Sports has indoor archery and compressed air shooting facilities. Children over 8 years old can try archery while compressed air shooting is available for those over 10 years old.

Luge

Sledging or luge takes place on the hillside close to the Eclose chairlift. Take the lift up and sledge down to the bottom.

High-wire adventure

At the Palais des Sports there is an indoor adventure trail hung 8m above the floor, open every day in July and August for anyone over six years old.

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.

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.

Canoeing and kayaking

In the Ecrins National Park, there are several rivers you can descend on a kayak or canoe, including the Vénéon, the Rive, the Eau d'Olle or the Romanche, offering different levels for diverse experiences.

Canyoning

A not-so-gentle but extremely refreshing summer activity is one way to describe canyoning! Plunge yourself into the mountain streams via a series of abseil descents, jumps and natural water slides, just make sure you choose a warm day! You will make your way along rivers and rapids, using the riverbed as a natural obstacle course. Not suitable for very young children, but anyone over 8 years old can take the (very cold) plunge and try canyoning.

Hydro speeding

Hydro speeding is one of the newer 'extreme' water sports to hit the market. It's a fun and exhilarating way to get yourselves down a river. Using a large float, which bears resemblance to a bodyboard, be ready to cling on for dear life as you send yourself hurtling down the rapids! 

This activity is a little more demanding physically than rafting or canoe rafting, but allows you to discover the unique sensation of surfing down whitewater rivers. It's also accessible to all, no need to be a professional diver or swimmer, you just have to be smart at using the water movements, obstacles and waves. In Alpe d'Huez, you can descend the Veneon river near Venosc on a board wearing a thick neoprene and fins.

White water rafting

If you haven't experienced white water rafting before then this is a definite 'must try' on your list of activities to do! There are a number of trained guides in resort who will let you experience some of the best white water rafting available in the Alps. From the middle of May until September, the Vénéon river flows furiously as they are fed from the meltwaters running off the glaciers high above the town. 

There are various options available from a three-hour adrenaline rush to a full days excursion - this activity is guaranteed not to disappoint.