Description

One of the world's major ski centres, the Grandes Rousses ski area above Alpe d'Huez is a huge and high domain served by an extensive lift system. The resort itself is one of Europe's highest and largest with a massive vertical drop, crowned by the Sarenne Glacier. Built above the original village of Huez, the resort has expanded in all directions over the past 20 years. Today the resort is big and vibrant with far more shopping and 'things to do generally' off the slopes than in most other ski centres, especially by French standards. Architecturally the place is a mish mash of traditional Alpine chalet style wood and stone buildings, some rather ugly rectangular concrete developments and one tasteful modern construction. There are two huge beginners areas directly above the resort and those going on to the top of the lifts will be able to see a fifth of France, on a clear day, from the top station. The resort has a reputation for both good snow falls and good sunshine with south facing slopes - the areas protected by nearly 860 snow cannon. Alpe d'Huez is one of the most southerly located major international resorts in the French Alps.

Travelling to Alpe d'Huez

The nearest airports are at Grenoble (99km / 62 miles) and Lyon (150km /93 miles) with the international airport at Geneva 220km (138 miles) away. There is no nearby rail station, the closest is Grenoble, 63km (40 miles) away via the A 480 motorway (Vizille exit). Paris is 620km (387 miles) to the north and Marseille on France's south coast only 300km (187 miles). There is a regular bus service from Grenoble and taxis are also available. Drivers should have chains available for the ascent up to Alpe d'Huez. There is extensive outdoor car parking and about 600 indoor parking spaces. A free shuttle bus service runs from early morning to late evening throughout the resort.

Weather

Conditions for L'Alpe-d'Huez, FR at 7:00 am CEST

Current Conditions:
Fair, 11 C

Forecast:
Sat - Sunny. High: 19 Low: 4
Sun - Sunny. High: 22 Low: 6

Full Forecast at Yahoo! Weather

(provided by The Weather Channel)

Snow Report

Latest snow report from onthesnow.com

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Updated, about 21 hours ago

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Database and compilation (c) Snow24 plc 2009-11, Database Right: Snow24 plc 2009-11.