If you’re looking for a destination that combines both sunshine and family-friendly, Alpe d’Huez ski resort is the one for you. It is set within the heart of the French Alps and is highly celebrated for its extensive ski terrains, perfect for beginners and intermediates and has a wide variety of off-slope activities that are set to keep the family entertained. It also enjoys one of the best snow and sunshine records in Europe, boasting an average of 300 sunny days per year.
With the introduction of family passes in recent years, it now has made skiing for affordable and accessible for families who want to experience a winter holiday in the Alps. Whether you plan on travelling with toddlers or teenagers, this guide will help you plan a smooth trip that is one to remember.
Ski Passes & Learning Areas for All Ages
The Alpe d’Huez Family Ski Pass offers reduced rates when booking for a group of four (two adults and two children aged 5–22), making it one of the best-value options in the Alps. If you decide to book online before your arrival, it can help save you time avoiding the long queues.
Young children aged two can participate in beginner ski lessons in dedicated ski schools that have tailored programmes for children. Lessons are often held in protected “snow gardens” where young learners can safely become accustomed to the basics before stepping out onto the main mountains.
Accommodations & Location Choices for Family Comfort
For comfort, many families decide to stay within the main resort, as it gives easy access to the lifts and amenities. Apartments and chalets are convenient for avoiding long walks with gear if you prefer having your own space, whilst hotels are great options for families who require childcare services and half-board options.
For those seeking a more quiet stay, there are plenty of nearby villages that offer family-friendly accommodation with shuttle connections that can take you to and from the main slopes. Accessibility is truly excellent around the area, as there are numerous lifts that are located near accommodations and facilities such as supermarkets and family restaurants that are all within walking distance, perfect for those evenings where you want a change of scenery from the chalet.
Off-Slope Activities & Keeping Everyone Entertained
There are plenty of off-slope activities that can keep everyone entertained when you’re off the slopes. The resort’s Avenue des Jeux ice rink and sledging areas are great for providing hours of fun for the whole family, if they want to swap the slopes for ice and many indoor soft play zones for the younger kids. Older children and teens can enjoy the sports and leisure centre, which includes swimming and climbing areas.
In the evenings, you can keep everyone entertained by enjoying floodlight sledging sessions before heading for dinner at the restaurants around the resort or the adults could choose to unwind in a spa whilst the kids enjoy the surrounding play zones.
Practical Tips: Packing, Costs & Travel Considerations
Preparation is key for a smooth trip, so make sure to pack plenty of warm layers, thermal clothing, gloves and sunscreen which is an essential to protect your skin against bright alpine rays. Essentials such as travel insurance documents and identification for ski passes should also be packed.
To help keep the costs manageable, you can choose to rent your equipment at the resort rather than purchasing it. This can save you a lot of money for the whole family, as well as travelling outside of peak seasons and holidays. If you decide to book early, you can discover the package deals early in the year to save more on your accommodation, ski passes, rentals etc.
