Alpe d'Huez
Why it might suit you:
- High-altitude skiing & reliable snow: With slopes reaching up to 3,330m (Pic Blanc), Alpe d'Huez offers a long ski season and excellent snow reliability, especially in February. The resort also boasts plenty of north-facing slopes to preserve good snow conditions.
- Great for intermediates: A paradise for intermediate skiers, Alpe d’Huez has a vast network of blue and red pistes covering over 250km of slopes, including some of the longest in the Alps, such as the 16km Sarenne run. The wide, rolling terrain makes it an excellent choice for those looking to progress their skills.
- Convenient infrastructure & easy access: The resort is well-connected, and its pedestrian-friendly layout allows skiers to easily reach lifts without needing a car. There’s also a free shuttle bus system for getting around town.
- Scenic beauty: Known as the "Island in the Sun," Alpe d'Huez is famous for its breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Ecrins National Park and its 300 days of sunshine per year.
- Good value for money: Compared to some of the pricier French resorts (like Val d’Isère or Courchevel), Alpe d’Huez offers affordable accommodation, dining, and lift passes while still delivering an excellent ski experience.
Potential drawbacks:
- Some flat sections: A few areas, especially lower-altitude blue runs, have flat sections that may require some poling or skating, which can be annoying for snowboarders.
- Variable snow conditions on lower slopes: While the high-altitude terrain is reliable, lower slopes (closer to 1,800m) may experience slushier conditions in warm weather, though this is less of an issue in February.
- Busy in peak times: Being a popular and family-friendly resort, Alpe d’Huez can get crowded during school holidays, leading to some lift queues in key areas.
My Experience
A few notes on the ski resort:
- I visited in Feb 2025
- I didn't ride a lot of time there and also got injured a bit, so I'm biased about this ski resort.
- VERY long black runs starting on the top. There are literally no options other than black ones to get down from the peak.
- It seemed to me as a more complicated one.
- It's claimed to have the most difficult black run in Europe known as the "tunnel run". I would probably like to get more skills and come back someday and try it.
- Huge parking lot just in front of the resort is a deal breaker.
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