Alpe d'Huez Ski Resort, France

Alpe d'Huez, often referred to as the "Island in the Sun," is a premier ski destination nestled in the Oisans region of the French Alps. The resort is situated in the department of Isère, approximately 59 kilometres southeast of Grenoble. Its strategic location in the heart of the French Alps makes it easily accessible from major cities and airports.

The nearest airports to Alpe d'Huez are Grenoble-Isère (95 km), Lyon-Saint Exupéry (150 km), and Geneva (195 km). Regular shuttle services and private transfers operate from these airports to the resort, ensuring a smooth journey for visitors. For those preferring rail travel, the nearest train stations are at Grenoble and Bourg-d'Oisans, with onward bus connections to the resort.

Once in Alpe d'Huez, getting around is convenient thanks to the free shuttle bus service that connects different areas of the resort. This service is particularly useful for accessing the slopes from accommodations that are not directly ski-in/ski-out, as well as for exploring different parts of the village in the evenings.

The resort's layout is designed with skiers in mind, with many accommodations offering ski-in/ski-out access. The village centre is pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to easily explore the shops, restaurants, and après-ski venues on foot. This thoughtful design contributes to the resort's welcoming and convenient atmosphere, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Alpe d'Huez boasts an impressive range of features and amenities that cater to both winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking a more relaxed mountain experience. The resort's crown jewel is its extensive ski area, which forms part of the larger Alpes d'Huez station ski domain. This vast terrain offers over 250 kilometres of marked pistes, suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.

The resort's lift system is modern and efficient, designed to minimise queues and maximise time on the slopes. Key lifts include the DMC (Dôme des Petites Rousses) gondola and the Pic Blanc cable car, which provide access to the highest points of the ski area and some of the most spectacular views in the Alps.

For those interested in activities beyond skiing and snowboarding, Alpe d'Huez offers a diverse range of winter sports and leisure activities. These include ice skating at the outdoor rink, snowshoeing on marked trails, paragliding for thrill-seekers, and even ice driving on a specially prepared circuit. The resort also features a public swimming pool and spa complex, offering a range of treatments and relaxation options.

Accommodation options in Alpe d'Huez are varied, catering to different preferences and budgets. Visitors can choose from cosy chalets, self-catering apartments, and luxury hotels. Many of these accommodations offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and provide easy access to the slopes and resort amenities.

The resort village itself is a blend of traditional Alpine charm and modern conveniences. It features a variety of shops, from sports equipment retailers to souvenir boutiques and well-stocked supermarkets. Dining options are plentiful, ranging from casual pizzerias to gourmet restaurants serving local Savoyard specialities.

The history of Alpe d'Huez as a ski resort dates back to the early 20th century. The first ski lift was installed in 1936, marking the beginning of its transformation from a small mountain village to a world-class ski destination. Over the decades, the resort has hosted numerous international ski competitions, including events in the 1968 Winter Olympics held in nearby Grenoble.

Beyond its skiing credentials, Alpe d'Huez is renowned for its role in cycling history. The gruelling 21-hairpin climb to the resort is a legendary stage in the Tour de France, having featured in the race numerous times since 1952. This dual identity as both a winter sports haven and a summer cycling mecca contributes to the resort's year-round appeal and cultural significance.

The resort also plays host to various cultural events throughout the year. The Alpe d'Huez International Comedy Film Festival, held annually in January, attracts film enthusiasts and celebrities, adding a touch of glamour to the winter season. In summer, music festivals and sporting events keep the resort buzzing with activity.

Alpe d'Huez's commitment to preserving its natural environment and cultural heritage is evident in its sustainable development initiatives. The resort has implemented various eco-friendly measures, including energy-efficient lift systems, waste reduction programmes, and efforts to preserve the local flora and fauna. This commitment ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy the natural beauty of the Alps while minimising the impact of tourism on the delicate mountain ecosystem.

The Alpe d'Huez piste map is an essential tool for navigating the expansive ski terrain and making the most of your time on the slopes. Available in both digital and physical formats, the map provides a comprehensive overview of the resort's 250 kilometres of marked pistes, lift systems, and key facilities.

The ski map Alpe d'Huez is colour-coded according to the international ski run classification system, making it easy to identify runs suitable for your skill level. Green runs indicate beginner slopes, blue runs are for intermediates, red runs offer more challenge, and black runs are for expert skiers. The map also highlights ski lifts, gondolas, and cable cars, allowing you to plan efficient routes across the mountain.

One unique feature of the Alpe d'Huez piste map is the clear indication of the resort's extensive network of green runs. These include several that stretch from the top of the resort all the way to the village, allowing beginners and less confident skiers to experience high-altitude skiing and enjoy panoramic views typically reserved for more advanced runs.

The map is divided into several sectors, each with its own character and appeal. The main sectors include Alpe d'Huez itself, Signal, Auris-en-Oisans, Oz-en-Oisans, and Vaujany. Understanding these different areas helps in planning varied ski days and exploring the full extent of the resort.

Key landmarks and facilities are also marked on the piste map, including mountain restaurants, ski schools, and first aid points. For those interested in freestyle skiing or snowboarding, the map indicates the location of the snowpark in the Signal area, featuring a range of jumps, rails, and obstacles suitable for different skill levels.

Digital versions of the Alpe d'Huez ski map often provide additional features such as real-time updates on lift statuses, piste conditions, and even your current location on the mountain. These interactive maps can be invaluable tools for navigating the resort, especially for first-time visitors.

Alpe d'Huez is renowned for its diverse ski terrain, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. The resort's impressive altitude range, from 1,860 metres at the village level to 3,330 metres at the summit of Pic Blanc, ensures excellent snow conditions throughout the winter season.

For beginners, Alpe d'Huez offers extensive nursery slopes and dedicated beginner areas, particularly around the village centre and in the Les Bergers area. These gentle slopes provide a safe and confidence-building environment for those new to skiing or snowboarding. The resort's unique offering of long green runs from high altitudes allows novices to experience the thrill of skiing from the top of the mountain to the village.

Intermediate skiers will find themselves spoilt for choice in Alpe d'Huez. The majority of the pistes are classified as blue or red, offering a perfect playground for those looking to improve their skills. Long, cruising runs like the 16-kilometre Sarenne – the longest black run in Europe – can be enjoyed by confident intermediates when conditions are good. The Signal and Auris sectors are particularly popular with intermediate skiers, offering a mix of wide, open pistes and more challenging runs through the trees.

Advanced and expert skiers will find plenty to challenge them in Alpe d'Huez. The resort is home to several renowned black runs, including the iconic Tunnel run, which starts with a passage through a mountain tunnel before emerging onto a steep, often mogulled slope. The Pic Blanc area, accessible by cable car, offers some of the most challenging skiing in the resort, with steep, ungroomed black runs and access to extensive off-piste terrain.

Off-piste enthusiasts will find Alpe d'Huez to be a paradise of untouched powder and challenging terrain. Popular off-piste areas include the Champagne Couloirs from the top of Pic Blanc and the Gorges de Sarenne. However, it's crucial to note that off-piste skiing carries inherent risks, and it's strongly recommended to hire a qualified mountain guide to explore these areas safely.

The snow conditions Alpe d'Huez are generally excellent throughout the season, thanks to the resort's high altitude and extensive snowmaking capabilities. The resort provides regular updates on snow depths at various altitudes, which is crucial information for choosing the best areas to ski based on current conditions.

To supplement natural snowfall, Alpe d'Huez has invested heavily in snowmaking technology, particularly on the lower slopes and key connecting runs. Over 900 snow cannons cover approximately 50% of the ski area, ensuring that even during periods of limited natural snowfall, a significant portion of the pistes can remain open.

The resort's piste maintenance team works tirelessly to ensure optimal skiing conditions. Grooming machines operate nightly to prepare the slopes for the next day, creating smooth, consistent surfaces on the marked runs. This is particularly important for maintaining good conditions on the lower slopes and ensuring resort connections remain open throughout the season.

For up-to-date information on current conditions, visitors can check the snow report Alpe d'Huez and snow forecast Alpe d'Huez, which are updated daily during the ski season. These reports provide valuable information on recent snowfall, snow depths at different altitudes, and weather forecasts, helping skiers plan their days on the mountain effectively.

The Alpe d'Huez webcam network is another valuable resource for real-time visual information on current conditions. Strategically placed cameras throughout the resort provide live feeds of key areas, allowing skiers to assess visibility, snow cover, and general conditions before heading out to the slopes.

Understanding and effectively using the Alpe d'Huez piste map, exploring the varied terrain, and staying informed about snow conditions are key to making the most of your ski holiday in this world-class resort. Whether you're a beginner taking your first turns or an expert seeking challenging off-piste adventures, Alpe d'Huez offers a ski experience to remember.

Alpe d'Huez weather is characterised by its unique microclimate, earning the resort its nickname, "Island in the Sun." The resort boasts an impressive average of 300 days of sunshine per year, significantly more than many other Alpine resorts. This abundance of sunny days not only enhances the skiing experience but also allows for spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including Mont Blanc on clear days.

The ski season in Alpe d'Huez typically runs from early December to late April, with the best snow conditions usually found from mid-January to early March. The resort's high altitude, with slopes ranging from 1,860 metres to 3,330 metres, ensures good snow coverage throughout the season. The upper slopes, particularly those above 2,500 metres, often retain good snow quality even during milder periods.

Temperature patterns in Alpe d'Huez follow typical high-altitude trends, with cold winters and mild summers. During the ski season, daytime temperatures at resort level (1,860 metres) usually range from -2°C to 6°C. However, temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes and during clear nights. It's not uncommon for temperatures at the top of Pic Blanc (3,330 metres) to fall below -15°C, especially when factoring in wind chill.

The resort experiences most of its snowfall between November and April, with January and February typically being the snowiest months. However, early and late season snow conditions can be highly variable, influenced by factors such as temperature fluctuations and rainfall at lower altitudes. The resort's extensive snowmaking capabilities help to mitigate these variations, particularly on lower slopes and key connecting runs.

Wind can have a significant impact on skiing conditions and lift operations in Alpe d'Huez. The resort's exposed position means that strong winds can occasionally affect the operation of higher lifts, particularly the cable car to Pic Blanc. Checking the wind forecast is advisable, especially if you're planning to ski in the higher parts of the resort.

Understanding and staying informed about the snow conditions Alpe d'Huez is crucial for maximising your enjoyment and safety on the slopes. The resort provides regular updates on snow depths at various altitudes, which is essential information for choosing the best areas to ski based on current conditions.

The snow report Alpe d'Huez is updated daily during the ski season, providing valuable information on recent snowfall, snow depths at different altitudes, and piste conditions. This report is an invaluable resource for planning your ski days and making informed decisions about which areas of the resort to explore.

For those planning their trip in advance, the snow forecast Alpe d'Huez offers predictions for upcoming snowfall and weather conditions. While long-term forecasts should be taken with a degree of caution in mountain environments, they can be useful for getting a general idea of what to expect during your stay.

The Alpe d'Huez webcam network is another valuable resource for real-time visual information on current conditions. Strategically placed cameras throughout the resort provide live feeds of key areas, allowing skiers to assess visibility, snow cover, and general conditions before heading out to the slopes. These webcams are particularly useful for early morning checks to plan your ski day effectively.

Snow depths in Alpe d'Huez can vary significantly between the lower and upper slopes due to the substantial altitude difference. It's not uncommon to see snow depths of over 2 metres on the upper slopes during peak season, while the lower runs might have considerably less cover. This variation is why checking the snow report for different altitude levels is so important.

To supplement natural snowfall and ensure consistent ski weather Alpe d'Huez, the resort has invested heavily in snowmaking technology. Over 900 snow cannons cover approximately 50% of the ski area, focusing particularly on the lower slopes and key connecting runs. This extensive snowmaking capability is crucial for maintaining good conditions throughout the season, especially during periods of limited natural snowfall.

The resort's piste maintenance team works tirelessly to ensure optimal skiing conditions. Grooming machines operate nightly to prepare the slopes for the next day, creating smooth, consistent surfaces on the marked runs. This is particularly important for maintaining good conditions on the lower slopes and ensuring resort connections remain open throughout the season.

The combination of natural snowfall, extensive snowmaking, and diligent piste maintenance allows Alpe d'Huez to offer reliable skiing conditions throughout its long season. However, it's important to note that conditions can still vary, particularly in the early and late season or during unusually warm periods.

Avalanche risk is a serious consideration in any high-mountain environment, and Alpe d'Huez is no exception. The resort employs a team of experienced professionals who continually assess snow stability and avalanche risk. Daily avalanche bulletins are issued, providing crucial information for off-piste skiers and snowboarders. It's essential to heed these warnings and avoid closed areas, particularly after heavy snowfall or during periods of rapid temperature change.

Understanding the weather patterns, snow conditions, and maintenance efforts in Alpe d'Huez allows visitors to make the most of their ski holiday. By staying informed through snow reports, forecasts, and webcam feeds, you can plan your days on the mountain effectively, ensuring the best possible skiing experience regardless of the conditions.

The Alpe d'Huez ski pass is your ticket to accessing the extensive ski terrain of the resort and its surrounding areas. The primary option is the Alpe d'Huez Grand Domaine Ski pass, which covers not only Alpe d'Huez itself but also the interconnected resorts of Auris-en-Oisans, Oz-en-Oisans, Vaujany, and Villard Reculas. This comprehensive pass gives you access to over 250 kilometres of pistes and 84 lifts, offering incredible variety for skiers of all levels.

Alpe d'Huez lift pass options typically include durations ranging from half-day to full season passes. The most common choices for visitors are the 6-day and 7-day passes, which allow ample time to explore the entire ski area. For those on shorter breaks, 1 to 5-day passes are also available. It's worth noting that multi-day passes often offer better value compared to purchasing daily passes, so it's wise to plan ahead and buy for your entire stay if possible.

One of the key advantages of the Alpe d'Huez lift pass system is its flexibility. Many pass options allow you to ski any consecutive days within a given period, which can be particularly useful if you're planning to take a day off from skiing during your stay. Some passes also include a day's skiing in other nearby resorts, such as Les Deux Alpes, adding even more variety to your ski holiday.

For beginners or those who prefer to stick to the lower slopes, Alpe d'Huez offers a special beginner's pass. This reduced-price option provides access to the nursery slopes and easier runs, making it an economical choice for those new to skiing or snowboarding. As skills improve, it's possible to upgrade to a full area pass, allowing progression to more challenging terrain.

Family passes are another popular option in Alpe d'Huez, offering discounted rates for parents skiing with their children. These passes typically provide excellent value for families and often come with additional benefits or discounts on other resort services.

The process of obtaining your Alpe d'Huez ski pass has been streamlined to make it as convenient as possible for visitors. Passes can be purchased online in advance, at the resort's ticket offices, or through many accommodation providers. Buying online often comes with discounts and allows you to avoid queues upon arrival at the resort.

Alpe d'Huez has embraced digital technology to make accessing the slopes more convenient. Many lift pass options are now available as hands-free cards, which can be reloaded online or at vending machines throughout the resort. This system not only reduces queuing times but also allows for easy extension of your ski pass if you decide to stay longer.

When purchasing your pass, you'll need to provide a passport-sized photo for passes valid for two days or more. Some vendors offer the option to take this photo on the spot, but bringing one with you can save time. Children and seniors may be asked to provide proof of age to qualify for discounted rates.

It's important to note that lift passes in Alpe d'Huez are checked regularly, both at lift stations and on the slopes. Modern RFID technology means that checks can be carried out quickly and efficiently, but it's always advisable to carry your pass visibly to avoid any inconvenience.

To get the most value from your Alpe d'Huez lift pass, it's worth considering the timing of your visit. Seasonal variations in lift pass pricing are common, with prices typically lower in the early and late season and peak pricing during school holidays and the high season of January and February. If your travel dates are flexible, choosing off-peak periods can result in significant savings on lift passes and overall holiday costs.

For frequent visitors to Alpe d'Huez, season passes offer exceptional value. These passes not only provide unlimited skiing throughout the winter but often come with additional perks such as discounts on equipment hire, lessons, and even summer lift access for mountain biking.

Many lift pass options in Alpe d'Huez include benefits beyond just slope access. Passes often cover entry to the outdoor ice rink, swimming pool, and sports centre, as well as discounts on activities like snowshoeing and ski touring. Taking advantage of these additional benefits can add significant value to your pass, especially on days when you might want a break from skiing.

To make the most of your time on the slopes, it's worth familiarising yourself with the resort's lift system. Key lifts, such as the DMC gondola and the Pic Blanc cable car, have high capacities to handle peak period crowds efficiently. However, during busy periods, it's advisable to start your day early to avoid the busiest times at main access lifts.

For those staying in the satellite villages of the Alpe d'Huez ski area, such as Oz-en-Oisans or Vaujany, the lift pass system ensures seamless integration with the main resort. High-speed lifts connect these areas to the heart of Alpe d'Huez, allowing easy access to the full range of pistes and facilities.

Understanding the nuances of the Alpe d'Huez ski pass system can significantly enhance your ski holiday experience. By choosing the right pass for your needs, taking advantage of available discounts and benefits, and understanding how to navigate the lift system efficiently, you can ensure maximum time on the slopes and the best value for your ski holiday investment.

One of the most essential services for many visitors to Alpe d'Huez is ski hire. The resort boasts numerous ski rental shops, offering a wide range of equipment to suit all levels of skiers and snowboarders, from beginners to experts. These establishments are conveniently located throughout the resort, with many situated close to the main lift stations for easy access.

Ski hire Alpe d'Huez options are diverse, catering to various preferences and budgets. Many shops offer online booking services, allowing you to reserve your equipment in advance and often at discounted rates. This not only saves time upon arrival but also ensures you have access to the latest models and your preferred equipment. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best deals and availability.

The quality of rental equipment in Alpe d'Huez is generally high, with shops regularly updating their stock to include the latest ski and snowboard technology. Many outlets offer premium ranges for those seeking top-of-the-line equipment, as well as more budget-friendly options for casual skiers. Some rental shops also provide a delivery service to your accommodation, adding an extra level of convenience to your ski hire experience.

For those bringing their own equipment, many accommodations offer secure ski storage facilities. Additionally, several shops in the resort provide ski and snowboard servicing, including edge sharpening, waxing, and binding adjustments, ensuring your equipment is in optimal condition for the slopes.

It's worth noting that some accommodation providers have partnerships with specific ski hire shops, often offering discounts or convenient in-house fitting services. When booking your stay, it's worth inquiring about any such arrangements that could save you both time and money on your ski hire.

Alongside ski and snowboard rental, many shops also offer a range of accessories for hire or purchase. These can include helmets, which are highly recommended for safety, as well as goggles, gloves, and even ski clothing. This can be particularly useful for occasional skiers or those who prefer not to travel with bulky ski gear.

For families with young children, many rental shops offer specialised children's equipment, including skis, boots, and helmets designed specifically for younger skiers. Some shops also provide growing children with the option to exchange their equipment during their stay if needed, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience throughout their holiday.

Alpe d'Huez boasts several reputable ski schools, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. The largest and most well-known is the ESF (Ecole du Ski Français), which offers a wide range of group and private lessons. Other international ski schools also operate in the resort, providing instruction in various languages to cater to the diverse visitor base.

Ski lessons in Alpe d'Huez are available for all levels, from complete beginners taking their first steps on snow to advanced skiers looking to refine their technique or explore off-piste terrain. Group lessons are a popular and cost-effective option, allowing you to learn alongside others of a similar ability. These are typically available in half-day or full-day formats, often running for five or six consecutive days.

For those seeking more personalised instruction, private lessons offer one-on-one attention from an instructor. These can be tailored to your specific needs and goals, whether that's building confidence on steeper slopes, improving your carving technique, or learning to navigate off-piste terrain safely.

Many ski schools in Alpe d'Huez also offer specialised clinics and courses. These might focus on particular aspects of skiing or snowboarding, such as mogul skiing, powder techniques, or freestyle skills. For the more adventurous, guide-led off-piste sessions and ski touring experiences are available, allowing you to explore the backcountry safely under expert guidance.

Children's ski instruction is a particular strength in Alpe d'Huez. Many ski schools offer dedicated children's programs, combining ski instruction with fun activities to keep young learners engaged. These often include age-specific groups, ensuring that children are learning alongside peers of similar age and ability.

For adults looking to improve their skills, Alpe d'Huez ski schools often provide improver clinics and technique workshops. These can be an excellent way to break through a plateau in your skiing or to prepare for tackling more challenging terrain.

When booking ski lessons, it's advisable to do so in advance, especially if you're visiting during peak periods. Many ski schools offer online booking systems, allowing you to secure your place and often benefit from early booking discounts. It's also worth considering the timing of your lessons – morning sessions often benefit from better snow conditions, while afternoon lessons can be less crowded.

The après-ski scene in Alpe d'Huez is vibrant and varied, catering to different tastes and ages. As the lifts close for the day, the resort comes alive with a range of entertainment options, from lively bars to more relaxed venues for a quiet evening drink.

For those seeking a high-energy après-ski experience, several bars at the foot of the slopes offer live music and DJ sets, creating a festive atmosphere as skiers descend from the mountain. These venues often feature outdoor terraces where you can enjoy a drink in the late afternoon sun, still in your ski gear.

If you prefer a more relaxed evening, Alpe d'Huez offers numerous quieter bars and lounges where you can enjoy a cocktail or hot chocolate while recounting the day's adventures. Many of these venues offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains, providing a perfect backdrop for a peaceful evening.

The resort also boasts a good selection of restaurants, ranging from casual pizzerias to high-end dining establishments. Many restaurants specialise in traditional Savoyard cuisine, offering local specialties such as fondue, raclette, and tartiflette. For those seeking international flavours, you'll find a variety of options including Italian, Asian, and American-style restaurants.

Evening entertainment in Alpe d'Huez extends beyond bars and restaurants. The resort features a cinema showing the latest releases, often in both French and English. During peak seasons, various events are organised, including torch-lit descents, firework displays, and live concerts.

For those looking to dance the night away, Alpe d'Huez has several nightclubs that stay open late into the night. These venues often host themed nights and special events, particularly during peak seasons and holidays.

Family-friendly entertainment is also well catered for in Alpe d'Huez. The resort often organises events and activities suitable for all ages, such as ice sculpture exhibitions, treasure hunts, and outdoor games. The sports centre hosts various activities and classes that can be enjoyed by families, providing entertainment options beyond the slopes.

It's worth noting that the après-ski scene can vary depending on the time of season. During peak weeks, particularly school holidays, the resort is at its liveliest, with a full program of events and entertainment. In quieter periods, some venues may have reduced opening hours, but there's still plenty to enjoy in the evenings.

After a day on the slopes, many visitors to Alpe d'Huez seek relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort offers a range of wellness facilities and services to help you unwind and soothe tired muscles.

Many hotels in Alpe d'Huez feature their own spa facilities, offering treatments such as massages, facials, and body wraps. These spa areas often include saunas, steam rooms, and jacuzzis, providing a perfect way to relax after a day of skiing. Some hotels also offer yoga and stretching classes, which can be beneficial for maintaining flexibility and preventing muscle soreness.

For those not staying in a hotel with spa facilities, or for those simply seeking more options, Alpe d'Huez boasts a public swimming pool and spa complex. This facility features a large indoor pool, perfect for a refreshing swim or some gentle exercise. The complex also includes a wellness area with saunas, steam rooms, and treatment rooms offering a variety of massages and therapies.

Physiotherapy and sports massage services are available in the resort, catering specifically to the needs of skiers and snowboarders. These can be particularly beneficial if you're experiencing muscle tension or minor strains from your time on the slopes.

For a unique relaxation experience, some providers in Alpe d'Huez offer outdoor hot tub sessions. Imagine soaking in warm, bubbling water while surrounded by snow-capped mountains – it's a truly memorable way to unwind after a day of skiing.

Yoga and meditation classes are becoming increasingly popular in Alpe d'Huez, with several instructors offering sessions throughout the season. These classes can be an excellent way to stretch out after skiing and find some inner calm amidst the excitement of a ski holiday.

It's advisable to book spa treatments and wellness sessions in advance, especially during peak seasons. Many facilities offer package deals that can provide good value if you're planning to make regular use of the wellness facilities during your stay.

Remember that proper relaxation and recovery can significantly enhance your ski holiday experience, helping to prevent fatigue and muscle soreness and ensuring you're ready to hit the slopes again the next day. Whether it's a professional massage, a session in the sauna, or simply soaking in a hot tub, taking time for wellness and relaxation is an important part of a well-rounded ski trip to Alpe d'Huez.