Restaurants, food and drink
The cuisine in Alpe d’Huez is typically French with a range of restaurants serving traditional mountain fare such as fondue and raclette. In the centre of town the cozy bar and restaurant Smithys Tavern has one of the most varied themes as it is a restaurant that turns into an après bar with live music in the evenings. L’Alaska has a truly authentic atmosphere and serves a great raclette. There are also various takeaway options from the traditional pizza to a Thai takeaway. Alpe d’Huez caters for all tastes and its also reasonably priced.
If you’re looking to splash out on a meal, try the Fruiterie at the top of the Marmottes lift. Part of La Folie Douce family this stylish restaurant is an atmospheric place for lunch on the mountain. If you are looking for something a bit more relaxed, Captain Sandwich burger shack’ hidden away in town but incredibly popular with our Alpe d’Huez reps who rave about the huge variety of burgers on offer.
Après, bars, clubs and nightlife
Alpe d’Huez has a loud and lively après scene, the dancing and live music continues late into the night. A trip to Alpe d'Huez is not complete without visiting La Folie Douce at least once, enjoy DJ's, dancing on the tables and live entertainment at 2300m.
The scene in Alpe d’Huez remains inclusive and you don’t have to be a pro-partier to participate in the table top dancing. Les Cave’s bar and nightclub has a welcoming vibe and the vibrant schedule of events is both eclectic and lively.
The Freeride Pub, where the party continues until late into the night, is popular with seasonaires. It’s not often that we highlight somewhere for their toilet, but the slide down to the WC is one of the unique highlights of this bar, especially when it’s accompanied by shots.
With live music most evenings and snowboards decorating the ceiling we also highly recommend The Underground Bar for a great night out.
Shopping
Avenue Les Jeux is the main centre for shopping in Alpe d’Huez with a couple of supermarkets ideal for self-catering visitors. In the area around Place Paganon there are several sports equipment shops offering ski and snowboarding rentals. And if you are looking to purchase postcards and souvenirs to take back home there are plenty of suitable stores selling everything from jewellery to heavenly chocolate.
Spas and relaxation
Many of the hotels in Alpe d’Huez have spa facilities which are available to their guests. Most of the hotels and residences we offer have wellness facilities available for guest use. Enjoy relaxing in the wellness areas or swimming pools in Hotel Pic Blanc, L'Eclose Apartments or Residence Daria-I Nor.
Public facilities in the resort include an indoor swimming pool at the superb local sports complex, the Palais des Sports, situated in the centre of town which offers everything from a climbing wall to a game of boules
Arts, culture and events
The lively calendar of events in Alpe d’Huez ranges from film festivals to elite sporting competitions. Particularly popular are the regular ice hockey matches which are held at the outdoor ice rink. One of the highlights of the sporting calendar is the Pyramide d’Oz held in the neighbouring small village of Oz-en-Oisans. This ski mountaineering race is held at the end of January, initially a competition held for enthusiasts the event is now the first stage of the Ski Mountaineering World Cup circuit.
Cultural activities in the town include the local cinema and the church with an organ in the shape of a hand. Movie buffs will also enjoy the annual International Comedy Film Festival, which Alpe d’Huez hosts every January. This festival showcases some of the best feature-length comedy films from across the globe as well as previously unseen short films. Visitors with an interest in sculpting should head to the ice caves at the top of the Grandes Rousses lift at 2700m. These magical caves are carved by expert ice sculptors and their appearance changes every year – it is a must see for every visitor to Alpe d’Huez.
Tomorrowland 2024 returns to Alpe d'Huez, the week long festival featuring sets from some of the best DJs in music. The event requires you to have a valid ticket, so make sure to book to avoid disappointment.
Things to do in Alpe d'Huez
It’s not all about skiing and snowboarding in Alpe d’Huez. There are plenty of alternative activities to keep you occupied both on and away from the pistes, many of which can be booked through speaking to your Inghams representative.
Night skiing
The flood-lit Signal piste is regularly illuminated throughout the season providing visitors with a six day pass an opportunity to enjoy the thrilling experience of night-time skiing.
Heli touring
Take to the sky's and experience the mountains from above. Helicopter tours are available in Alpe d'Huez which take you on a scenic flight over the mountains.
Ice skating
The open-air ice skating rink is located in the centre of town. The floodlit ice rink is open until late most days of the week, making it a perfect evening activity after a day on the slopes (pay locally).
Ice caves
Each year over thirty themed snow and ice sculptures are created for this unique art gallery. Located at 2700m in the Grand Domaine ski area, you can have a break from skiing and marvel at the ice sculptures. Previous themes have included farm animals and the funfair. This years theme is rumoured to be Egyptian themed.
Indoor climbing
Take to new heights on the indoor climbing wall located at the Palais des Sports centre. There are thirteen climbing routes for you to climb, whether you are just starting out or have scaled the walls before, its a fun activity for the whole family.
Snowmobiling
Whizz around the snowy landscapes on a snowmobile. You can choose between a short ride around the luge area or go on a longer safari around the lower slopes of Alpe d'Huez. Booking is required for all of the trips, enquire with your Inghams representative for more information. Payable locally.
Swimming
Throughout the season you can enjoy the heated outdoor swimming pool with wonderful mountain views. Alternatively the indoor swimming pool is located inside the Palais des Sports . Don't forget your speedos!
Parapenting
Take to new altitudes and experience Alpe d'Huez from above, glide over the mountains with a qualified instructor and take in the amazing views from above.
Sledging
There are two sledging areas in resort, one under the DMC1 and one at the Les Bergers slopes. Night sledding is available Butte de l'Eclose slope throughout the winter. Sleds and helmets can be hired from most sports shops in resort.
Ice driving
If you're looking for adrenaline off the slopes then ice driving is for you. Located in the E'Close area of town, there is 820m of icy tracks which you can whizz around. Fear not, if you haven't driven in icy conditions before, tuition is available to guide you so you can become the next Vin Diesel in no time. Payable locally.
Snowshoeing
For those who want to experience the mountains on foot, why not try snowshoeing and discover the winter walking trails surrounding the resort.
Mountain rollercoaster
For a thrilling experience, enjoy a ride don the 1km mountain coaster which has a number of twists and turns on the way down. You can also be transported to another world with virtual reality goggles. This is only possible on a two seater luge, with one person steering and one with the VR goggles. Payable locally.
