Alpe d’Huez is one of the best big resorts in France for families. The beginner areas are free, under-5s ski free, there’s a nursery from 6 months, and it’s an easy drive from Grenoble or Lyon. The main things to plan around are the hairpin road and the busy February holidays.
Is Alpe d’Huez good for families?
Yes, especially with younger children and beginners. Three things make it work:
- Free beginner areas by the Bergers shopping centre and at the Rond-Point des Pistes, with secure zones for little ones.
- Sunshine. The south-facing slopes make for warmer, more pleasant days than many high resorts, which matters a lot with small children.
- Lots to do off the slopes for the afternoons when little legs give up.
Ski schools and kids’ lessons in Alpe d’Huez
Several ski schools, including the ESF, run lessons and kids’ clubs. The resort says toddlers can start learning from about two and a half. Minimum ages for group lessons vary by school, so check with the school before booking.
Book early for school holidays. Lessons for the youngest age groups fill up first, sometimes weeks ahead.
Childcare and nurseries in Alpe d’Huez
- Les Intrépides, the municipal nursery, takes holiday visitors’ children from 6 months to 4 years, from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm. Places are limited, so book ahead.
- Some hotels run their own kids’ clubs for guests, including Club Med (from 4 months to 17 years) and Langley Le Petit Prince.
Best beginner areas for children in Alpe d’Huez
- Two free beginner areas, by the Bergers shopping centre and at the Rond-Point des Pistes.
- A Kids Park for very young children, plus fun runs with slaloms and themed courses.
- A snowpark and boardercross with XS-level features for children who want to try freestyle.
Alpe d’Huez lift passes for families
- Children under 5 ski free, but they still need a pass, so bring ID to the ticket office.
- The Family Package gives a reduced rate on four passes of the same length, with at most two adults and at least two children.
Things to do with kids in Alpe d’Huez off the slopes
- Rail sledging in the Bergers area, with discounts on packs of runs.
- A children’s sledging run, snow tubing and a fun slope.
- Dog sledding and snowshoeing for older children.
- A skating rink and a sports centre with indoor and outdoor pools.
Best family hotels in Alpe d’Huez
Grandes Rousses Hotel & Spa (Famille Plus label, family suites, heated outdoor pool), Club Med (kids’ clubs from 4 months) and Langley Le Petit Prince (its own kids’ club) are the standouts. The centre and Les Bergers are the easiest areas with young children. See where to stay in Alpe d’Huez for the full list.
Tips for skiing in Alpe d’Huez with kids
- The hairpin road: 21 bends can be hard on children prone to car sickness. Take it slowly, and break the journey in Bourg d’Oisans before the climb.
- Altitude and sun: the resort is at about 1,860 m and the lifts reach 3,330 m. Pack high-factor sun cream, sunglasses and warm layers, and keep children well hydrated.
- Pick your weeks: French and UK school holidays, especially February half-term, are the busiest and most expensive. March and April are quieter, sunnier and still have good snow higher up.
