Alpe d'Huez 2026: The Ultimate Guide to the Alps' Sunniest Ski Resort
Alpe d'Huez is one of the most iconic ski resorts in the French Alps. With 250 km of ski runs, a maximum altitude of 3,330 m at Pic Blanc, and a south-facing aspect that has earned it the nickname île au soleil (island of the sun), Alpe d'Huez combines quality skiing with a lively atmosphere and first-rate infrastructure. It is also famous for being the most legendary finish of the Tour de France.
Alpe d'Huez in Numbers
| Fact | Figure |
|---|---|
| Skiable kilometres | 250 km |
| Number of ski runs | 145 |
| Lifts | 80 |
| Base altitude | 1.860 m |
| Maximum altitude | 3,330 m (Pic Blanc) |
| Maximum vertical drop | 2,250 m — the greatest vertical drop in the Alps |
| Sunny days | +300 days/year |
| Season | December – April |
What Time Do Alpe d'Huez's Ski Runs Open?
Alpe d'Huez's ski runs open at 9:00 h and close at 17:00 h. The first lifts start operating at 8:30 a.m. The ticket offices open at 8:00 a.m. — buy your lift pass online to avoid queues.
Alpe d'Huez Sectors
🟢 Pic Blanc (3,330 m) — The Resort's Highest Point
The highest point in Alpe d'Huez and the gateway to the longest ski run in the Alps: Sarenne, with 16 km of descent and a 1,900 m vertical drop. A unique experience that no intermediate-to-advanced skier should miss.
🟢 Grandes Rousses Sector (2,800 m) — Long and Intermediate Runs
The favorite sector of intermediate skiers. Long red and blue runs with spectacular views of Mont Blanc and the Alps. Less crowded than the central sector.
🟢 Signal Sector (2,114 m) — Ideal for Beginners
Alpe d'Huez's learning area, with wide green and blue runs and a ski school. Easy access from the village.
🟢 Auris en Oisans Sector — The Quietest
The lesser-known, less crowded sector of Alpe d'Huez. Long and intermediate runs with very few people. The resort's best-kept secret.
La Sarenne Run: 16 km of Descent
La Sarenne is the longest ski run in the Alps: 16 km of continuous descent from Pic Blanc (3,330 m) to Auris en Oisans (1,600 m). A 1,900 m vertical drop combining black, red, and blue runs. A must for any skier visiting Alpe d'Huez.
Ski Rental in Alpe d'Huez — From €15/Day
Book your equipment online before you arrive. Collect it at the foot of the slopes, with no queues and premium equipment for 2026.
How to Get to Alpe d'Huez
- From Grenoble: 65 km via the A480 and D1091. 1 hour 15 minutes under normal conditions. The fastest route.
- From Lyon: 150 km via the A43 and D1091. 2 hours under normal conditions.
- From Geneva: 200 km via the A40 and A43. 2 hours 30 minutes.
- From Barcelona: 550 km via the AP-7 and A43. 5 hours 30 minutes.
- By plane: Grenoble-Isère Airport (GNB), 65 km away. Direct flights from several European cities operate seasonally.
Note: The access road to Alpe d'Huez has 21 numbered hairpin bends—the same ones featured in the Tour de France. During peak season, there may be queues. Arrive early or take the bus service from Grenoble.
Frequently Asked Questions about Alpe d'Huez
What time do the slopes open in Alpe d'Huez?
The slopes open at 9:00 h and close at 17:00 h. The first lifts start running at 8:30 a.m.
How many kilometres of slopes does Alpe d'Huez have?
Alpe d'Huez has 250 km of slopes spread across 145 runs and 80 lifts. Its maximum vertical drop of 2,250 m is the greatest in the Alps.
What is the longest ski run in Alpe d'Huez?
The Sarenne, with a continuous 16 km descent from Pic Blanc (3,330 m) to Auris-en-Oisans (1,600 m). It is the longest ski run in the Alps.
Is Alpe d'Huez suitable for beginners?
Yes. The Signal sector has wide green and blue runs with a ski school. However, Alpe d'Huez is especially well suited to intermediate and advanced skiers because of its variety of long runs and access to Pic Blanc.
When is the best time to visit Alpe d'Huez?
January and February offer the best snow. March is ideal for combining quality snow with more hours of sunshine. Alpe d'Huez has more than 300 sunny days a year, making it an excellent choice for the Easter holidays too.
