Find the perfect stay near Alpe d'Huez

Alpe d'Huez sits high in the Oisans region of the French Alps, offering a sunny playground for anyone who loves fresh mountain air and wide-open spaces. This plateau at 1,860 m elevation is a legend for cyclists tackling its 21 hairpin bends and for skiers enjoying miles of snowy slopes. You can spend your days exploring high-altitude trails or simply soaking up the views across the rugged peaks of the Massif des Grandes Rousses. Whether you come for the summer flowers or the winter powder, the atmosphere here is always laid-back and welcoming.

Planning your mountain adventure

Access to the general mountain area is free, though you will need to purchase a lift pass if you want to use the cable cars to reach higher elevations. The main visiting periods are the winter season from December to April and the summer season from June to August. Most of the action starts in the main village located at 1,860 m above sea level.

You should pack layers as temperatures can change quickly when you move between different altitudes. There are information points in the centre where you can pick up maps for the various trail networks. Please check the official landmark site for up-to-date information on opening times, lift schedules, and ticket availability.

Ways to explore the landscape

You can spend your days exploring a massive network of paths, including 155 miles of marked hiking trails that wind past alpine lakes and streams. For those who prefer two wheels, the area features 155 miles of mountain bike tracks and the famous road climb with 21 hairpin bends starting from the valley floor.

During the winter months, the terrain transforms into a snowy playground with over 155 miles of downhill runs. If you are looking for a long challenge, the Sarenne slope offers a continuous descent of 10 miles. Paragliding sessions are also available, usually lasting about 20 minutes, providing a bird's-eye view of the surrounding peaks.

The best of the natural scenery

The highest point in the area is Pic Blanc, which stands at 3,330 m. From this vantage point, you can see across to the Ecrins National Park and catch a glimpse of the snowy peak of Mont Blanc in the distance. The summit is accessible by a cable car ride that takes you up the steep mountainside in just a few minutes.

Lower down, you will find peaceful spots like Lac Besson and Lac Noir, which are situated at roughly 2,000 m. These lakes are surrounded by rocky outcrops and are perfect for a quiet break during a summer trek. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as marmots are frequently spotted near the hiking paths during the warmer months.

Alpe d'Huez is remarkably easy to navigate, with a vast array of accommodation scattered across the mountainside. Whether you prefer to be in the lively centre of the resort or a secluded alpine corner, you will find a spot that suits your needs.

Where to base yourself

Choosing the right spot depends on what you want from your mountain holiday. If you fancy a traditional feel, stay in Vieil Alpe, which is the oldest part of the resort and full of character. For those who want to be first on the lifts, Les Bergers is a great choice as it offers many ski-in/ski-out apartments and sits at 1,850 m above sea level. You will find plenty of family-friendly chalets and boutique lodges throughout the village, or you can opt for a 50 m² apartment in Cognet for a bit more peace. The resort layout means you are rarely more than a 10-minute walk from a lift or a bus stop, making it simple to explore the 155 miles of linked runs.

Getting to the slopes

The most common way to arrive is via Grenoble Train Station or Grenoble Airport, which are both roughly 40 miles from the resort. You can hop on a shuttle bus or take a 90-minute drive up the famous 21 hairpin bends to reach the summit. If you are flying from further afield, Lyon St. Exupéry Airport is about 93 miles away and offers regular transfers that get you to the snow in around 2.5 hours.

Prepare for your alpine getaway by using Opodo to browse the top-rated hotels near Alpe d'Huez. We provide a simple way to evaluate different properties and find a price that works for you. Get ready for your mountain escape and book a stay that fits you perfectly. Exploring nature has never felt this easy.