Alpe d'Huez

Alpe d'Huez is a modern and buzzing resort set on a sunny balcony above the Oisand valley near Grenoble in the southern alps. Set high in the Grandes Rousses mountains, Alpe d'Huez is the fifth largest skiing area in France linking villages Vaujany, Oz, Villard-Reculas and Auris-en-Oisans.  The resort has a reputation for both good snow falls and good sunshine with south facing slopes - the lower areas are protected by more than 400 snow cannons. There is a huge beginners area directly above the resort. Those who go to the top of the lifts will be able to see a fifth of France on a clear day. Summer skiing on the Sarenne glacier is an attraction in July and August. 

The ski area pass is called Visalp, and Alpe d'Huez is keen to promote its multi-functional usefulness. Aside from access to the lifts, the Visalp Pass also gives you free or discounted entry to a range of attractions including two swimming pools, the ice rink, sports hall and museum.

Grandes Rousses 1860m - 3300m

With excellent nursery slopes, the skiing gets more difficult as it rises up to Grandes Rousses and Pic Blanc at 3300m. Two black runs down the Sarenne glacier are particularly renowned – one a steep mogul slope and the other an incredible 16km trail into the Sarenne gorge.  If you relish boarding off piste and can ride black runs then you will appreciate what Alpe d'Huez has to offer. Alternatively for the novices and intermediates the choice of blues and reds will not disappoint you.