This French Alpine resort at 1,860m has 21 numbered hairpin bends leading to its summit, where skiers tackle the world's longest black run and cyclists face a legendary climb.
Alpe d'Huez sits at 1,860 meters in the French Alps, with ski slopes extending to the Pic Blanc glacier at 3,330 meters. From the summit, you'll see Mont Blanc stretching across the horizon. The distinctive Notre-Dame des Neiges church rises from the village center, its modern stained glass windows casting colorful light patterns inside. In winter, skiers glide down 250 kilometers of slopes, while in summer, cyclists tackle the legendary 21 hairpin bends that wind up to the resort.
Skiing at Alpe d'Huez Grand Domaine
You'll find 250 kilometers of marked runs across the ski area. Start on the gentle slopes near the resort center if you're learning, or head to the Pic Blanc glacier area for challenging terrain. La Sarenne, the world's longest black run, stretches 16 kilometers from summit to base. The south-facing slopes and high altitude location maintain good snow conditions from December through April, with snow machines supporting natural snowfall on key runs.
The 21 Hairpins of Alpe d'Huez
Since 1952, the road to Alpe d'Huez has challenged Tour de France cyclists. The 13.8-kilometer climb zigzags through 21 numbered hairpin bends, each displaying names of past stage winners. In summer, recreational cyclists test themselves on this 1,061-meter ascent from the valley. During Tour stages, Turn 7, "Dutch Corner," fills with orange-clad Netherlands supporters cheering on the riders.
Weather and Climate
Clear skies dominate 300 days per year, leading locals to call it "l'Isle du Soleil" (Island of Sun). Winter temperatures range from -10°C to 5°C at resort level, while summer days warm to 15-25°C. The high altitude often puts you above the clouds, with clear views even when fog fills the valleys below.
Summer Mountain Activities
In July and August, lifts carry hikers and mountain bikers up the slopes. The Megavalanche race in July sends mountain bikers racing down from the glacier in a mass start. You can launch a paraglider from the upper slopes, play a round at the 9-hole golf course by the altiport, or scale the nearby rock climbing routes.
Villages and Districts
Three distinct areas make up the main resort. Vieil Alpe contains traditional stone buildings along narrow streets. The Quartier des Jeux forms the main commercial center with restaurants and shops. In Quartier des Bergers, modern apartment buildings connect directly to ski lifts. Below the main resort, the original village of Huez maintains its stone architecture, including a 12th-century church.
