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Alpe d'Huez Activities - Winter
| Winter Activities in Alpe d'Huez |
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Well of course, you are always going to have the ubiquitous skiing and snowboarding, but whilst you’re in Alpe d’Huez, you may want to try your hand at one of the many other winter activities available in this town. Below are a few suggestions to tickle your imagination! |
| Airboarding |
This relatively new twist on snow sports is a bit like body boarding down the piste. Lying stomach-down on an inflatable sled-like cushion you slide head-first down the mountain, picking up speed and using your bodyweight to shift direction. The underside of the air board is grooved, so that you can steer and brake by leaning from side to side. Many resorts are reluctant to allow airboarding as they could be a hazard to skiers and boarders; so ensure that you have had training, are wearing safety gear and know how to control your board before setting off. Many resorts enforce age restrictions and only allow airboarding within certain areas, so don’t go plummeting down your favourite black run before checking the rules first!
In Alpe d’Huez you can try airboarding in safety at the Poutran lift every Friday between 10am and 4.45pm. Once you’ve got the hang of the basics you can hire the gear from Sport 2000 and take to the luge piste via Télésiège de L’Eclose. |
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last updated 2-Jul-2008 |
| Cross Country Skiing (Ski de Fond) |
 | | 'Classic' Style |
Get back to nature and explore tranquil cross-country trails at your own pace. There are two different techniques – classic and skating. Classic is the easiest for beginners; you simply place your skis in two parallel groves, push off and glide around the trails. Skating is more energetic and a slightly harder skill to grasp; you push your feet out to either side as though you are ice skating and use your poles simultaneously to gain momentum.
You can hire the comfortable boots and lightweight skis and poles fairly inexpensively from most sports shops and book a group or private lesson to learn the basics from most ski schools or private instructors. For those used to downhill skis, at first you feel precariously balanced and downhill sections are definitely more exciting on narrow skis with no edges! The skis are lighter and slimmer than downhill skis and the boots are much softer and more comfortable.
The tranquility of cross country (also known as Nordic) skiing is perfect for anyone who enjoys peace and quiet, or finds the downhill pistes too crowded or too steep. It is a great form of aerobic exercise and one can be as energetic or slow as one likes, while the relaxed pace makes it a more tranquil way to enjoy the surroundings!.
 | | 'Skating' Style |
Once you have grasped the essentials, head off for the 50km of tranquil cross country trails that criss cross Alpe d'Huez. All trails are located around 2000m/6560ft and are consequently pretty snow sure.
ESF offer group cross country skiing lessons every morning throughout the winter season and some afternoons during school holidays. The meeting place is Les Bergers and it is advisable to book in advance.
You can see prices for the Alpe d'Huez cross country ski pass here.
Alpe d'Huez Ski de Fond Piste Map & Guide
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last updated 9-Jul-2008 |
| Folie Gliss |
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Each Friday between 10am and 4.45pm you will find an array of snowtoys waiting to be tried and tested by the Poutran ski lift; Airboard, Snake Gliss, Be One and Snow Trikke are all fun ways of getting down the piste without your skis! |
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last updated 22-Feb-2008 |
| Glacier Walking |
For a truly unique experience, clamp on your crampons and go hiking on Les Deux Alpes' Glacier 3200 or on one of the many glaciers in the Ecrins National Park. The breathtaking views and spectacular crevasses make this an incredible adventure and if you are quiet you can sometimes even hear the creaking noise of shifting ice! There are a number of glacial hikes, of varying difficulty, in this region of the Alps.
We strongly advise hiring a qualified guide for any activities on a glacier; most mountain guiding companies will run organised excursions to the most accessible.
To read more about glaciers and the environment please go to our Glacier Meltdown article. |
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last updated 2-Jul-2008 |
| Grotte de Glace (Ice Caves) |
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The Alpe d'Huez ice caves are a magical grotto of glistening sculptures and fairytale figures. Dug out many years ago by two local guides they have become an annual feature; each winter expert ice sculptors arrive to create a new exhibition based on a different theme every year. At 2700m the caves are accessible via the Grandes Rousses/DMC gondola, please click here for further details. |
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last updated 10-Jun-2008 |
| Helicopter Tours & Heli-Skiing |
Sit back and admire the mountains from even higher up! Daily panoramic helicopter flights are available (weather permitting) with a number of local flight companies or some mountain guide companies. Relax and enjoy the stunning views as you fly over the snow-capped mountain tops, glaciers and alpine forests of the Oisans.
The Aéroclub du Dauphiné, based at Altiport Henri Giraud, offers all sorts of aeronautical activities. You can book flying courses, initiation (first flight) sessions and air excursions. Open all day, every day according to the weather – reservation necessary.
Unfortunately, heli-skiing is not permitted in France, however some of the ski schools and mountain guide companies will offer a pick-up/drop-off heli skiing service for you where you will be taken over the border into Italy or Switzerland. It is expensive, but definitely a once in a lifetime experience! |
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last updated 3-Jul-2008 |
| Horse Drawn Sleigh |
If the idea of seeing beautiful Alpine scenery without exerting yourself appeals to you, then this is definitely the way to do it. You can take a tour of the town or travel further afield to take in some of the views of Alpe d'Huez whilst sitting comfortably in a sled drawn by a strapping horse, snuggled under a warm hairy blanket. This gentle pastime is not for the speed demons, but will suit those who have not necessarily come to Alpe d'Huez area to ski. Wear something warm and bring someone to snuggle with!
A 15 minute ride will cost €25 and 40 minutes will cost €50 - there is a €1 discount for holders of a Visalp pass. Rides leave from the Foyer de Ski de Fond; reservation is necessary +33 (0) 613 54 83 27. |
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last updated 8-Jul-2008 |
| Husky Sledding (traineaux a chiens) |
Be in charge of your own sled and team of excitable husky dogs, driving them along forest paths. After a brief explanation of how to make your team stop and start (you shout "mush!"), and strict instructions not to let go of the sled if it turns over (the dogs would disappear for hours...), you set off following the guide’s team. Your huskies want to keep up with their doggy mates, so the next hour is a breathless scramble to keep the sled upright, trying to control the speed downhill, and hanging on for dear life when you tear around corners. Going uphill you have to help push the sled, so this is hard physical work.
If this all sounds a bit much you can opt for a less physical outing where you sit in the sled and the guide does all the hard work! Either way it is an exhilarating experience – you can find contact details on our Action, Fun & Sports page. It is best to book a day in advance, you can make enquiries at the Foyer de Ski de Fond. |
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last updated 3-Jul-2008 |
| Ice Climbing |
For the true mountain enthusiast, why not scale an amazing frozen waterfall or glacier? This is a fantastic sport, not just for experienced mountaineers. The Oisans and the Ecrins National Park are renowned for their spectacular ice formations. The sunny faces of Vaujany are the ultimate location for arming yourself with crampons and an axe and scaling your way up a frozen waterfall!
Although it sounds like a very specialised sport, ice climbing is suitable for everyone - from complete beginners to experienced climbers. Some knowledge of ropes and basic climbing skills will give you a head start, but if you are a complete novice then your guide should be able to teach you from scratch. The ice climbing season peaks between December and March.
Safety is important, so it is advisable to take an experienced mountain guide to instruct you on the use of crampons, ropes and ice picks. |
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last updated 4-Jul-2008 |
| Ice Diving |
Although plunging under the icy waters of Lake Besson (altitude 2000m) in the middle of winter may not sound much like fun this is a fascinating and magical experience. Cavities in the ice and huge air bubbles trapped under the surface create an eerie but spectacular environment. Accompanied by experienced instructors you can go beneath the frozen surface of the lake and submerge yourself in the alien world beneath.
Excursions can be organised through Caméléon. |
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last updated 3-Jul-2008 |
| Ice Driving |
For anyone who loves speed the Eclose Ice Driving Circuit is a must. The 856m of highly specialised track acts as a training ground for many famous race drivers and a test track for major car and tyre manufacturers. It also hosts the Andros Trophy in winter and the Supermotard in summer.
You can learn how to race on ice, take an advanced driving course for bad weather conditions or have a go at go-karting with a difference. The circuit has a range of vehicles for you to try including 4x4 all terrain vehicles, motorbikes, quads, karts and racing cars.
Open daily from 9pm – 12 noon and 5pm – 8pm (weather dependant, too much sun is bad for the track) you can try out the beginners or advanced courses, or even rent the track for a group session. Private or group instruction is available. |
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last updated 4-Jul-2008 |
| Ice Rink |
The Patinoire Extérieure Municipale (public open air ice rink) is open daily from 10am-11pm, in both summer and winter, except when hosting events.
Entry is free with a Visalp pass (skate hire extra). It also has a curling rink (booking advised) and the possibility of booking lessons.
Regular ice hockey matches take place here, it is the home of Alpe d’Huez ice hockey team Les Yetis, which are usually a good night out!
Lessons – Alexandra Lemaître +33 (0) 688 166 075
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last updated 25-Jul-2008 |
| Paragliding ('Parapente') |
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From the heights of Alpe d’Huez one can glide down to the bottom of the valley on a tandem paraglider controlled by the instructor. He manoeuvres the parachute while the passenger enjoys the ride and fantastic views. Taking off is the only scary moment; once you have been equipped with a helmet and strapped to the instructor behind you in a rather intimate way, both of you simply point your skis (or board) downhill, and carry on getting faster and faster until the parachute lifts you into the air. An early intermediate skier can manage the take-off, but for boarders a good technical level is needed.
In summer one simply runs down a slope until you take off; no particular level of fitness is required, just the ability to sit back and enjoy the view! One then peacefully glides above the pistes for ten to twenty minutes, aiming to catch thermals to keep you up for longer. Landing is very gentle and no more of an impact than jumping off a step. ... see "Alpe d'Huez for Paragliding" for more |
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last updated 9-Jul-2008 |
| Piste Basher Excursion |
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Fancy a unique mode of transport while you’re in Alpe d’Huez? Sata Ski Lift Company operates two trips a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10am and 2pm from in front of the Grandes Rousses/DMC gondola. Travelling over the snow on its enormous caterpillar tracks the piste basher will take you on one of two excursions; the Ronde des Lacs or the Crete du Signal. Along the way you will see ice waterfalls and frozen lakes while your guide fills you in on the history, anecdotes and tales of the area. |
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last updated 7-Jul-2008 |
| Quad Biking |
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Fancy being the next ‘Schumacher on snow’? For a high speed adrenaline rush, try testing your driving skills with Quadmania at L'Eclose race track. Open 7 days a week all year, you can race round an ice circuit in winter or take to the mountains in summer; children are able to ride as passengers. They also offer tuition for A and B quad bike licences. |
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last updated 7-Jul-2008 |
| Snow-Mobile (Moto-Neige) |
Photo Credit: Snow-Biker.Com
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Those who enjoy speed will love riding a powerful snow-mobile (like a motorbike with caterpillar tracks). Discover the different dimensions of driving; carving turns, accelerating in a straight line, ascents and descents.
There is a specially designed snow-mobile circuit near the Restaurant Chantebise at the arrival of the first section of the DMC lift. Here you will find an adult circuit and a children's circuit, both open daily from 10.30am until 4.30pm. Prices start from €6 for a children's 5 minute session and €20 for a adult 10 minute session.
You can also go on hour long excursions; seated either one or two per bike, one follows the guide up the pistes, around a specially prepared circuit, over jumps and bumps, and sometimes off-piste through the powder. Half way through the hour-long outing, you have the opportunity to swap places with your partner and off you speed again. These trips leave from the Rond Point des Pistes and finish by the Les Bergers shopping centre. Reservation is necessary for this popular activity.
Remember to wrap up warmly especially if you go after dark, and bring goggles if there is powder. This is not a sport for the timid! See Action, Fun & Sports for contact details. |
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last updated 9-Jul-2008 |
| Snowshoe Walking ('Raquette à Neige') |
Strap lightweight plastic snowshoes to your feet, and walk effortlessly through deep snow. Either set out on your own, or join a group led by a knowledgeable local guide and explore the hidden parts of the valley. On these half day group outings you will get off the beaten track to follow animal footprints, discover mountain flora and fauna and learn the history of the valley. Snowshoes and ski poles are usually provided. See Action, Fun & Sports for details of guiding companies.
Check the Tourist Office for their weekly schedule of guided snowshoe walks; they operate most days, weather permitting. You can also do moonlit excursions or weekend trips.
You can also hire snowshoes from most Sports Shops, grab a trail map and head off on your own adventure. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go.
This is a perfect activity for bad weather conditions, or for non-skiers; walkers and nature lovers will love these outings. Don't forget to take energy bars and wear comfortable boots. |
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last updated 11-Jul-2008 |
| Tobogganing |
The new sledding area opens daily under the Grandes Rousses/DMC gondola lift; groomed and equipped with banked turns, brakes and helmets are required but not provided (can be bought or hired from most sports shops). Unlimited access with ski and walking day passes, ski half-day passes and all Visalp passes. Cost without pass is €6.30 per gondola ascent.
You can also sled on the piste next to the Bergers shopping centre or go night sledding on the Butte de l’Eclose slope. The illuminated sledding area opens on Tuesday & Thursday evenings from 5.30-7.30pm. Again, brakes and helmets are required but not provided (can be bought or hired from most sports shops). Access is free with a Visalp pass. |
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last updated 10-Jul-2008 |
| Winter Walking Trails |
With so many hiking and walking trails on its doorstep, Alpe d’Huez is ideally located in the heart of the Oisans and Ecrins National Park region. There are hundreds of kilometres of marked trails, ranging from idyllic rambles to more challenging mountain hikes. The amazing alpine scenery takes in snowy mountain peaks, traditional alpine villages and crystal clear (and very cold!) lakes. Throughout the winter 30km of these trails are maintained and marked for hiking. There are trails along the Signal Ridge and the Bergerie, looped trails around Brandes and Poutran, the Sarenne Gorge trail, to name but a few. A map showing all the routes is available from the Tourist Office, don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you set out as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
You do not need any particular equipment, just a pair of sturdy boots and layers of warm clothing that you can take off or put on as necessary. A pair of walking poles will come in handy for extra balance on icy patches and for checking snow depth before you go striding forth! Top tip: buy ‘grippers’ for your walking boots to prevent slipping, all of this can be bought from most local Sport Shops.
Click here for prices of pedestrian lift passes. |
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last updated 11-Jul-2008 |
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