Alpe d'Huez

Alpe d’Huez, perched on a sunny plateau in the French Alps, is one of Europe’s most popular ski resorts, often nicknamed “L’Île au Soleil” thanks to its excellent sunshine record. The resort offers access to over 250 kilometres of pistes in the Grand Domaine ski area, with terrain for every level. Beginners can learn on wide, gentle nursery slopes near the village, intermediates enjoy a vast selection of cruising runs, while advanced skiers and snowboarders can tackle the legendary Sarenne run, one of the longest black pistes in the world, or explore extensive off-piste terrain. Snowboarders will also find multiple snowparks, boardercross tracks, and freeride zones to explore. The resort itself is a lively hub with plenty of restaurants, shops, and après-ski venues. Accommodation options are extensive, ranging from luxury ski-in/ski-out hotels and spa resorts to mid-range chalets, budget-friendly apartments, and catered lodges, making it suitable for families, groups and solo travellers alike. Pros: Vast ski area with something for all abilities Excellent sunshine and reliable snow record Famous for challenging runs like the Sarenne Wide variety of accommodation, from luxury hotels to budget apartments Lively après-ski and plenty of off-slope activities Cons: Can get crowded during peak weeks Some accommodation is spread out, requiring shuttle buses or longer walks Purpose-built sections lack traditional alpine charm Lower slopes can suffer from slushy snow in warmer conditions