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Discover the top Alpe d'Huez activities
The main draw for people coming to Alpe d'Huez in winter is, of course, skiing and snowboarding. However, there’s other activities to do in both winter and summer.
Whether you're just looking for something to do when the lifts close or you simply don't ski, we promise you'll have no time to get bored here!
Alpe d'Huez is an outdoor-lovers paradise. The Alpine town and its surrounding mountains offer hundreds of things to do for every ability and every age. Some activities are perfect for solo travellers whilst others are more suited to romantic couples.
Families and groups will also find a wide range of things to do in Alpe d'Huez. From relaxing to full-on adrenaline, from child-friendly to adults-only, from outdoor fun to indoor bad-weather activities, there is something for everyone in Alpe d'Huez.
Below are our three favourite activities in Alpe d'Huez but there are plenty more to choose from.
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.
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.
Alpe d’Huez offers more than 260km of mountain biking trails across every kind of terrain, from glacier descents to forest tracks. With lift access, bike buses and gear hire available, getting started is easy.
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.
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.
Take your skiing or snowboarding to the next level with expert off-piste lessons in Alpe d’Huez. Designed for experienced skiers and snowboarders, these guided outings offer a chance to explore the resort’s hidden corners and pristine powder away from the crowds. With their extensive knowledge of the area, instructors know where to find the best snow and secret spots for every level of adventure.
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.
Learn the secrets of the wildlife of the Oisans. Qualified staff leads this fun and realistic wildlife discovery, using interactive terminals offering a choice of virtual walks with activities featuring mountain fauna.
This museum showcases the lives, tools and exploits of miners between the 12th to 14th centuries.
Located in the attic of the church of Bourg d'Oisans and is accessed by a building to the left of the church.
This museum houses permanent and temporary exhibitions about the production of electricity in the valley.
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.
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).
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.
This shop offers bike hire, premium cycling kit and on-the-spot servicing for riders tackling Alpe d’Huez. Since 2011, it’s been a go-to stop for cyclists looking for performance, style and friendly support.
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.
You'll be sure to enjoy some amazing views and an experience like no other!
Golf de l'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.
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.
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.
The Alpe d'Huez Sports and Conference Centre offers over 20 activities, with free access for Carte Premium holders.
Alpe d’Huez is a great spot for mountain biking, with something for every kind of rider. From the high snowy slopes of the Pic Blanc at 3,330m right down to Allemont at 720m, the trails take you across rocky ridges, alpine meadows, forest tracks and even glacier beds. You’ll find over 260km of routes connecting eight different villages, all linked by summer lifts and bike buses, so getting around is easy. And if you haven’t brought your kit with you, don’t worry – there are plenty of places to hire bikes and gear once you arrive.
Open all year round, this shop offers expert ski and bike hire at the foot of the bike trails 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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
Features a sauna, hammam, indoor pool and Jacuzzi as well as a fitness area.
Located inside the Chamois d'Or Hotel, at this spa you can enjoy the benefits of the site's high altitude to re-establish your well-being, fitness and vitality.
On crossing the threshold of this spa you enter a space wholly dedicated to wellbeing.
Massage Me work across the French Alps and can offer a whole variety of massages and treatments in your own chalet, apartment or hotel.
Physiotherapy and massage, digestive comfort, muscles and joint balance, foot sole massage, manual therapy.
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.
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.
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.
This watersports centre is located between Venosc and St Christophe, not far from the Ecrins National Park.
Find out all about what is happening in Allpe d'Huez and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in the valley. Plus, during the winter season, our famous snow reports and dump alerts all in the same place.
See allLatest News & ReviewsAlpe d'Huez hosts a wide range of events throughout the year. In the winter, you can expect motor racing on ice, comedy festivals, ski races and various live music gigs. During the summer months, the focus turns to cycling with the Tour de France usually passing through town. The Megavalanche, a mass-start mountain bike race that draws thousands of MTB fans from around the world, takes place in July.
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