Alpe d'Huez

Head out by board… or by bike

Alpe d'Huez boasts one of the largest ski areas in the world, and occasionally the snow stays long enough to indulge in some summer skiing on the glaciers. With lots of varied terrain, the resort is popular with mountain bikers, too. If you don't have your own bike there are plenty of bike hire shops to equip you for a day of cycling. The Grande Domaine downhill track comes well recommended, with nine lifts, 250km of trails and a total of 35 tracks. Of the four black tracks on this route, the highest sits at 3300m and the lowest is 720m, making for a varied and exciting ride with plenty of breath-taking views. If you prefer something even more heart-racing, Alpe d'Huez is also equipped with paragliding courses or helicopter rides for a bird's eye view of the Alps. Summer is also the perfect time to go white water rafting in the Alps, with the mountainous rivers rushing throughout much of the season.

Fabulous facilities

Famed for its range of facilities, there are plenty of indoor activities in Alpe d'Huez to enjoy during a visit. The resort has spa facilities that allow you to relax and rejuvenate. With beauty treatments, hot tubs, swimming pools, massages and steam rooms available, there's plenty to allow you to enjoy your holiday. The town boasts shops for every taste, with everything from souvenirs to authentic local produce available. Delices des Alpes is the best shop for culinary goodies, and as well as the abundance of sports shops, there are plenty of jewellery, fashion, gift and beauty shops - head to Pharmacie des Bergers to sample beauty brands that aren't available in the UK. There are a number of gym and fitness facilities, as well as indoor climbing walls, badminton and football courts for those looking to stay active. And if the kids are bored of sports, there is a cinema and bowling, too.

Children's activities

There is an abundance of summer camps for children available in the resort. Let the energetic staff keep your little ones busy with horse riding, pottery, circus skills, ice skating and much more. Entry into many of the municipal swimming pools will be free with a lift pass, and you can spend the day at one of the Treetop Adventure Courses in the resort for monkeying adventures in the mountains for all ages

Day trips

If you fancy getting off the mountains for a day, Grenoble makes for a great day out. Just a 90-minute drive away, you can enjoy the culture of this centre of research. The Musée de Grenoble houses art from all the 20th century greats, and the building itself is an architectural beauty. Alternatively, head to the Fort de la Bastille for breath-taking views and a chance to immerse yourself in France's military past.

Burgers and beers

With more than 40 restaurants on offer in the resort, there is something to suit everyone's taste in Alpe d'Huez. From authentic French cuisine to Tex Mex or Italian food, no one will go hungry in this beautiful alpine spot! Le P'tit Creux is the best place for gourmet French cuisine. Prices typically start at around Eur48 for the adult menu and Eur11.50 for the children's, but the rustic atmosphere and quality of food is well worth the price. Stief's Steakhouse Café in Vaujany is perfect for those looking for a mighty burger. Famed for its classics, plus over 45 Belgian beers to choose from, this is the perfect place for a hearty meal. Burgers start at around Eur10 and the children's menu is Eur9, making this the place to get the most for your money.

Le zoo and L'igloo

Alpe d'Huez has a thriving nightlife with plenty of bars, clubs and pubs. There's regular themed nights, live music and great drinks offers, so rarely is there a shortage of things to do after a long day on the mountain. A popular choice is Le Zoo Music Bar. Located in the centre of town, this bar is well-loved for its feel-good vibe and live music sets. With a friendly atmosphere, drinks and plenty of local bands on show, this normally a fun night on offer for all. When the other bars close and you still want to party, head to L'Igloo Nightclub. Presenting DJs, cocktails, music, and even the occasional foam party, you're unlikely to forget a night here in a hurry.

Lifts

Over the summer months the lifts are typically open from around 8 or 9am and close around 5 - 6pm. Some lifts close briefly for lunch so be sure to plan your day carefully. There is a variety of different passes available to help you make the most of your stay in Alpe d'Huez. Mountain Biking passes can be bought online or at the resort and begin at Eur17 for the day up to Eur158 for the season. As well as this, passes for summer skiing, pedestrian access and summer sledging are available. One of the best is the Summer Premium pass, which allows access to all the facilities (tennis, swimming pools, museums, ice rinks and much more). Family discounts are available, too, to help you make the most of the resort at a reduced price.

Childcare and Family facilities

Alpe d'Huez is perfect for an active family holiday. There are plenty of family-friendly chalets on offer which are close to the pistes and offer various services from in house nannies and play rooms to special needs childcare. There are childcare services on offer for different age groups and interests. The majority of these are the summer camps, where children can pursue their interests with qualified professionals and others their own age. The Alpine Child Care service is also available, and matches families with qualified nannies to give you a break.

Parking

Parking in the summer is much easier than in the winter. Parking in the resort can be difficult at the height of the season so try to reserve a parking space to make sure you have a space ready. There is plenty of free parking in the resort though it is often time limited and uncovered. Visitors can also make use of the covered pay and display car parks, with prices starting from around Eur65 for the week.