Top Non-Skiing Activities in Alpe d’Huez for Everyone
Alpe d’Huez might be known first and foremost for its extensive skiing area and reliable snow, but there’s a lot more going on here than just slopes and ski schools. Whether you’re visiting in winter or summer, whether you’re not keen on skiing or just fancy a few slower days, this French Alps resort has plenty of alternatives. Some are peaceful, some are adventurous, and others are just good fun.
And really, that’s what makes it such a well-rounded destination. Sitting high in the Grandes Rousses massif, Alpe d’Huez is surrounded by dramatic peaks and open views, with something to do at just about every turn – even if you never set foot on the snow.
Let’s take a look at the best non-skiing activities in Alpe d’Huez:
Ride the Cable Car to Pic Blanc – For the View, Not the Ski
One of the highest points accessible by lift in the area, Pic Blanc stands at 3,330 metres and is well worth the journey up – even if you’re not planning to ski back down. On clear days (which are surprisingly common here), you can see across to Mont Blanc, the Meije, and sometimes even the distant Jura.
The cable car itself is part of the experience, floating up above the snowy ridges. It’s peaceful, and the air up there is noticeably crisper – not to mention thinner. Bring an extra layer and take your time.
The Grotte de Glace – Carved Art Beneath the Snow
Not far from the main ski lifts, you’ll find something unexpected: an underground ice cave filled with sculptures. The Grotte de Glace is small, but surprisingly detailed, with artists from around the region carving animals, people, and abstract designs into frozen walls and ceilings.
Each winter season brings a new theme. It’s slightly chilly inside – obviously – but manageable. Kids usually love it, and even adults tend to find it more engaging than they expected. If you’re staying more than a couple of days in Alpe d’Huez, it’s worth dropping in.
Walk Around the Old Village – and Visit Notre-Dame des Neiges
Much of Alpe d’Huez is purpose-built, but tucked just beneath the main resort is a quieter, older part of the village. It’s easy to miss if you stick to the busy shopping areas and cafés, but well worth a wander.
Notre-Dame des Neiges, a modern-looking church with striking stained glass windows by artist Arcabas, is located nearby. It’s a surprisingly calm place, and the windows really glow when the sunlight hits them – which, in this part of the Alps, happens more often than not.
Indoor Climbing, Swimming and Soft Play at the Palais des Sports
When the weather’s not playing ball – or you just want a break from the snow – the Palais des Sports is the go-to indoor hub in Alpe d’Huez. It’s packed with things to do: a heated swimming pool, climbing walls, squash courts, even a small gym if you’re feeling virtuous. For families, it’s especially handy. There’s soft play for younger kids, mini climbing walls with safety mats, trampolines and space to just run around without gloves and goggles. Parents can sit back with a coffee while the kids burn off some of that endless energy.
And if you’re visiting in summer, it’s a great fallback for the odd rainy afternoon – though they’re not exactly common in these parts.
Mountain Biking – Not Just a Summer Thing
Now, this one might raise eyebrows, but mountain biking is big here in both summer and winter. In the colder months, fat bikes (basically mountain bikes with extra wide tyres) are available for hire, and there are even guided night-time rides through the snow.
In summer, things get even busier. The resort transforms into a mountain biking hotspot, with downhill trails of varying difficulty, and bike-friendly lifts running throughout the day. It’s fast, sometimes muddy, but always exciting. You’ll see people from all over Europe arriving with full gear and serious bikes strapped to their roof racks.
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Try Cross Country Skiing – Slower, but Still a Workout
Even if you’re not into downhill skiing, cross-country trails offer a good compromise. Alpe d’Huez has several well-maintained routes that wind through quiet woodland and open plateaus, with far fewer crowds than on the main pistes.
It’s still a physical challenge – perhaps more so than expected – but it’s easier to take it at your own pace. There’s less risk, too, and the sense of being out in the landscape is much stronger. Equipment can be hired from most ski shops, and lessons are available if you’re completely new to it.
Take a Day Trip to Les Deux Alpes or Beyond
Thanks to its location, Alpe d’Huez makes a great base for exploring other resorts or small mountain towns. Les Deux Alpes is nearby and easy to reach by shuttle or car. Even if you’re not skiing, it has its own attractions, from high-altitude viewpoints to cafés and galleries.
You could also drive a little further to Bourg d’Oisans – a lively town at the base of the mountain, especially popular with cyclists. Or, if you’re here during summer, you might want to plan a route that takes in the nearby Col de Sarenne – a wild, twisting road often used by the Tour de France.
Tomorrowland Winter – for Music, Not Mountains
Held annually in March, Tomorrowland Winter has become a huge draw for people who wouldn’t usually set foot in a ski resort. Yes, it’s a music festival. But it’s also a kind of cultural event, with electronic music stages scattered around the mountains and village areas.
Even if you’re not attending the full event, you can often catch a set or two from a distance, or enjoy the lively atmosphere in the evenings. During this time, Alpe d’Huez changes completely – it feels younger, busier, and more energetic. Not for everyone, perhaps, but definitely something to see.
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Watch the Tour de France Climb the 21 Bends
If you’re visiting in July, this might be the highlight. Alpe d’Huez is famous for its 21 hairpin bends – a steep, gruelling climb that has become legendary in the world of cycling.
When the Tour de France comes through, the whole area turns into a spectator arena. Crowds line the roads, cowbells ring out, and riders push themselves to the edge. You don’t need to be a cycling fan to get caught up in it. The atmosphere is infectious.
Even if the Tour isn’t happening while you’re there, the climb itself is still worth seeing. You can walk or drive sections of it, stopping at cafés along the way. There’s even a small plaque at the summit listing previous stage winners.
Getting to Alpe d’Huez
Winter Travel Tips
Winter brings the crowds, and with them comes the need to plan your journey well – especially if you’re travelling with skis, snowboards, or just a lot of layers. The closest major airport is Grenoble Alpes–Isère, which is just under two hours from the resort by road. Grenoble to Alpe d’Huez transfers are one of the most straightforward options for getting up the mountain quickly, particularly if you’re flying into France and want to avoid long cross-country drives.
Geneva and Lyon airports are also popular choices. Geneva has great international connections, and Lyon offers a decent balance of proximity and availability, especially during peak ski season. Transfers from these hubs can take a little longer – but they’re well worth it for the convenience of a door-to-door service.
Geneva to Alpe d’Huez transfers tend to take around 3 to 4 hours depending on road conditions, especially in snowy weather. Book your hassle-free Alps2Alps transfers in advance, allow extra time for delays, and if you’re driving, bring snow chains – and patience.
Summer Arrivals
Things tend to be a bit simpler in summer. Roads are clearer, travel times are shorter, and summer airport transfer options are more flexible. Again, Grenoble is the closest airport, but Lyon and Geneva remain reliable alternatives.
Some people even drive the whole way in summer, combining the journey with a wider tour of the Alps or nearby regions. The roads around the resort are scenic – sometimes a bit narrow – but generally well maintained.
If you’re heading up for cycling or hiking, try to arrive midweek if possible. Sundays and Mondays can be surprisingly busy during big summer events or public holidays.
A Few Extra Things
If you’ve got spare time between walks or outings, Alpe d’Huez also has a small cinema, a weekly market, and a few surprisingly good bakeries. Local cheese, honey, and charcuterie are worth sampling – though prices can vary quite a bit depending on where you shop.
Lift passes aren’t just for skiers either. In both winter and summer, you can buy a pedestrian pass that gives access to many of the main lifts. These can be useful for reaching higher viewpoints, mountain restaurants, or simply exploring at altitude without the hassle of skiing gear.
It’s Not All About the Slopes
Alpe d’Huez isn’t only about skiing, even if that’s what first put it on the map. Whether you’re here for the views, the culture, the walking, or just the fresh air, there’s a good mix of things to try. Some are active, others more relaxing – but all are wrapped in that unique Alpine feeling that’s hard to explain unless you’ve been here.
There’s something quietly special about this place. It doesn’t shout about it. But it’s there, between the mountain paths and quiet cafés, between the old village stones and the sudden summer storms. And the best part? You don’t need skis to find it.
Book your Alpe d’Huez transfer with Alps2Alps for a reliable, stress-free journey in summer or winter – whether you’re flying into Grenoble, Lyon or Geneva, we’ve got your trip covered.
Author Information
This article is co-written by…
Raitis Bullits, Founder
Alps2Alps’ Founder, Raitis, is an innovator, entrepreneur, philanthropist and all-round adventure-seeker. Dedicated to transforming the way people travel, Raitis combines a forward-thinking approach with a deep commitment to sustainability and community impact. When not spearheading industry innovation, Raitis often embraces the Alpine lifestyle, inspired by the mountains that drive Alp2Alp’s mission.
