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Often you find two types of people when it comes to holidays: those who simply want to sit and enjoy some warmer weather and those who get bored of having nothing to do after 2 minutes and want to go exploring.
For those who are determined to remain active on holidays, then “L’Isle du Soleil”, as it’s nicknamed, could be the ideal destination; it can provide you with an extensive array of activities regardless of when you visit, and there isn’t a need to worry if you can’t ski because when it comes to planning an Alpe d’Huez ski holiday, you’ll find it gives you year-round thrills that are not just the classic winter sports.
1. World-class Skiing and Snowboarding
Part of the Grand Domaine ski area, Alpe d’Huez has 250 km of diverse runs suitable for all ability levels.
Advanced skiers can challenge themselves on the legendary La Sarenne—at 16 km, it’s the longest black run in Europe.
And, as a plus, according to The Telegraph, skiing is one of the best winter sports in terms of health, as it has tremendous cardiovascular benefits.
This is not to say that if you have never skied before, you would want to avoid Alpe D’Huez, as some routes and instructors make it accessible for novices and experienced skiers alike.
2. Mountain Biking Adventures
Not to worry if skiing or snowboarding aren’t your thing, as when the snow melts, Alpe d’Huez changes into a mountain biking magnet.
The resort hosts the famous Megavalanche—considered the world’s longest downhill race—where riders start at the 3,300-metre Pic Blanc glacier and descend 2,600 metres to Allemond.
Again, this track has something for everyone, as its varied geography provides everything from family routes to more technical single tracks for the most daring riders.
3. Paragliding: Soar Above the Alps
Another activity that may appeal to the adventure seeker in you is Paragliding.
For a truly breathtaking perspective, tandem paragliding flights launch from the upper slopes and give you unrivalled views across to neighbouring peaks.
The reliable thermal currents and experienced instructors make this activity accessible even to complete novices, resulting in you having experiences and seeing sights you never thought you would.
4. Rock Climbing and via Ferrata
The limestone formations surrounding Alpe d’Huez give great opportunities for climbers of all abilities.
The British Mountaineering Council highlights the safety of the routes with protected cabled climbing, which is ideal when it comes to introducing vertical terrain but still providing enough of a challenge for experienced adventurers.
This can be quite physically demanding, but when you reach your goal, you’ll find it is much more than worth the effort, and you may just enjoy it that much more than you anticipated.
5. Hiking and Trekking Trails for all Levels
For those who like to remain active but don’t necessarily want to be scaling rocks or snowboarding down snowy mountains, you are in luck, as there is also the option to do some incredible hiking.
The region has many marked trails, including the picturesque Alpe d’Huez Lakes circuit, which is a moderate 7.4 km circular trail showcasing stunning alpine lakes.
All of this makes the Alpe d’Huez one of the most spectacular hiking routes in all of Europe.
5. Ice Driving and other Winter Thrills
For a different kind of adrenaline rush, Alpe d’Huez also offers ice driving experiences where you can test car controls on specially prepared frozen tracks.
The reduced grip creates a perfect environment for learning advanced driving techniques in a controlled setting.
This could be a perfect activity for when you are feeling a little sore from the physical activities of other days and would like to put less strain physically on yourself but also don’t want to sit still for the full day.
6. Unique alpine experience in beautiful surroundings
But there is, of course, more than just action sports. Alpe d’Huez also gives you a chance to connect with great alpine ecosystems.
Wildlife enthusiasts might spot ibex with their metre-long curved horns or golden eagles soaring overhead.
Botanists, on the other hand, can appreciate the strong flora adapted to the high-altitude environment.
No matter what you are looking for or what time of year it is, you’ll find Alpe d’Huez has something for the adventure seeker inside.
You could be seeking winter powder, summer trails, or just a beautiful mountain escape; all you need to know is that Alpe d’Huez gives you adventure opportunities that rival any destination in the French Alps.
