- Introduction
Alpe d`Huez has enviable snow and weather conditions which can be enjoyed against the back drop of the impressive scenery of the Grandes Rousses Mountains. If you wish to ski the longest black run in Europe, head to Alpe d`Huez and the 16kms, La Sarenne. You will have to be an advanced skier to start the run - and also to finish it as there are no exit routes on the way down. Should your intentions be a little less ambitious, the 41 green runs should meet your needs. Beginners will enjoy the fact that nursery runs are to be found in the centre of the resort. For non-skiers there is a large outdoor swimming pool and indoor pool, an Olympic sized ice rink and fully equipped sports centre with tennis and squash courts, aerobics, table tennis and many other activities.More than 40 bars and restaurants should complete your after skiing entertainment.
Skiing
Alpe d'Huez has some of the best and most varied skiing in the world with 235 km of pistes for every standard of skier. The main ski areas are Signal, Marmottes and Pic Blanc, which rises to 3,330m where there’s a viewing platform. There are now some 700 snow canons ensuring that the snow is in the best possible condition throughout the season. An excellent lift system means that queues are kept to a minimum even during the busiest periods. There is now floodlit skiing on Le Signal for the really keen. The lift pass includes free days at Les Deux Alpes or Serre Chevalier which offer a great day out. Transfers are also possible by helicopter - weather dependent.
Snowboarding
Though there are a lot of drag lifts, there is usually an alternative bubble or chair. A good snow park has been built in the main bowl just above the DMC and attracts some high level competitions throughout the season.
Ski Schools
The ESF has a good reputation and offers private and group lessons in all types of snow-sports. There’s tuition from three years and under fives get free lift passes. Crappouiloui Garderie in the old town offers childcare from six months to six years. SkiExtras offers some great prices on ski school so let us give youa quote on line.
Eating Out
For those who like their food on the hill there are over 30, serving excellent gourmet to basic pizza. La Cabine du Poutat serves fine local dishes which you can enjoy on the south-facing terrace whilst taking in some spectacular views. The Chalet du Lac Besson serves excellent French cuisine within a cosy atmosphere. Down in town Le Rabelais and the Edelweiss serve up local Oisan delicacies and local liqueurs (made from mountain plants) to wash it down with, while at L’Accorde or the Génépi you can enjoy a traditional atmosphere and delicious food. For a special meal, Au Petit Creux is a must.
Bars and clubs
With over 30 bars, nights get lively with music and shooters galore. Underground, Smithy’s own-brand shooters and O’Sharkey’s table football, pool and satellite TV are very popular with the British contingent. The Avalanche, Freeride Cafe and the Zoo (which has dentist’s chairs) buzz with a young crowd, and Melting Pot and the Pacific also merit a mention. Later, the Igloo, Cave des Alpes and the Sporting are trendy clubs; spinning techno and house. If it’s chart music and Europop that get your feet moving then head to Stage 1 or the Tropicana.
Off the slopes
A large outdoor heated swimming pool is relaxing after a hard day on the pistes, and there’s ice-skating, a sports centre, a cinema, shopping and ice driving. The Grotte de Glace half way up the mountain has ice sculptures, and a museum in town will fill you in on local history.