Les 2 Alpes & Alpe d’Huez

There is something special about skiing in the French Alps. Long, high-altitude runs, sun-drenched terraces and villages that hum with energy well into the evening. For the 2026/27 season, one of the most compelling ways to experience it is by combining two neighbouring resorts that each offer something distinct, yet complement each other perfectly. Les 2 Alpes and Alpe d’Huez sit just over an hour apart, making them an easy and rewarding twin-centre snow holiday.

Les 2 Alpes: High-Altitude Reliability Meets New-Season Energy

Les 2 Alpes has long been known for one key advantage. Snow reliability. With one of the highest skiable glaciers in Europe, reaching 3,600 metres, the season stretches from late November well into spring, and even summer skiing is possible.

This winter, access to that terrain becomes faster and more seamless than ever. The new Jandri lift connects the village to the glacier in just 17 minutes, transforming how quickly skiers and snowboarders can move from morning coffee to high alpine runs.

On the mountain, there is genuine variety. Wide groomed pistes for cruising, a globally recognised snowpark, and extensive off-piste terrain, all set against sweeping views of the Écrins National Park. Around 70% of the ski area sits above 2,000 metres, which makes a noticeable difference in both snow quality and coverage.

For those learning or travelling with family, the resort has invested heavily in multi-level beginner zones, with dedicated areas at different altitudes. It allows progression across the mountain rather than being confined to the base.

Beyond the skiing, Les 2 Alpes continues to build its experience offering. One standout for the coming season is Sunset 3200, where guests enjoy an aperitif at altitude before skiing down as the light fades. There is also regular night skiing on the Vallée Blanche, extending time on snow well into the evening.

Mogul Ski World tip: Head up early via Jandri and ski the glacier while the light is crisp, then descend through the mid-mountain pistes as they soften. It is one of the best top-to-bottom ski experiences in the Alps.

Alpe d’Huez: Sunshine, Scale and Signature Descents

Just over an hour from Les 2 Alpes, Alpe d’Huez offers a distinctly different experience, defined by its expansive terrain, high altitude and remarkable consistency of sunshine. Known as the “Island in the Sun,” the resort enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year, shaping everything from snow conditions to the on-mountain atmosphere.

The ski area spans more than 250km of terrain, reaching up to 3,300 metres, which helps ensure reliable snow coverage throughout the season. It caters particularly well to confident intermediates, with long, flowing runs that allow you to cover serious ground, while still offering more challenging terrain for advanced skiers.

One of the standout experiences is La Sarenne — at 16km, the longest black run in Europe. It’s less about sustained steepness and more about the journey, descending from high alpine terrain through changing landscapes, making it one of the most memorable runs in the Alps.

Alpe d’Huez also offers a broader sense of place, connecting five distinct mountain villages including Vaujany, Oz-en-Oisans and Auris. This creates flexibility in how you stay and experience the resort, whether you prefer a lively central base or a quieter alpine setting with direct lift access.

The lift system is modern and efficient, making it easy to move across the mountain, while the resort’s south-facing aspect encourages long lunches on sun-drenched terraces. On-mountain venues such as La Folie Douce add energy to the afternoons, complementing a strong après and dining scene back in the villages.

Mogul Ski World tip: Plan your Sarenne descent for a clear day. The scale of the landscape and the changing scenery along the route is what makes it truly special.

Why Combine the Two?

Pairing Les 2 Alpes with Alpe d’Huez gives you contrast without complexity. The transfer between the two is straightforward, yet the experience feels entirely different.

Les 2 Alpes delivers altitude, snow certainty and progressive terrain

Alpe d’Huez offers scale, sunshine and iconic alpine descents. Together, they create a more complete French Alps itinerary

This style of trip also allows flexibility in pace. Start with the high-energy, glacier skiing of Les 2 Alpes, then transition to the expansive cruising and social atmosphere of Alpe d’Huez.

Where to Stay

Les 2 Alpes offers a broad mix of accommodation, from relaxed apartment-style stays to more refined alpine hotels and fully serviced chalets, making it particularly well suited to both families and groups.

For a more traditional alpine hotel experience, Chalet Mounier stands out as one of the resort’s most established addresses. A family-run property dating back to 1879, it combines heritage charm with contemporary comforts, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, spa and indoor pool.

Closer to the slopes, Hôtel Les Mélèzes offers a warm, chalet-style atmosphere with ski-in convenience and a relaxed, social dining experience that reflects the energy of the resort.

For those seeking flexibility, My Mountain Resort apartments provide well-located self-catered accommodation, ideal for families or longer stays where space and independence are key.

At the more elevated end, chalets such as Chalet Atelier, Chalet Lievre Blanc, and Chalet Bellachom offer a more private alpine experience, with spacious living areas, wellness facilities and tailored services suited to groups travelling together. There is also a curated collection of premium chalets available through providers like Chalets de Coeur, blending character, design and comfort.

In Alpe d’Huez, accommodation is equally versatile. For a refined, centrally located stay, Hôtel Daria-I Nor offers ski-in, ski-out access paired with contemporary alpine design, multiple dining venues and a standout spa. It is one of the resort’s most polished hotel experiences.

For those seeking a more relaxed, village-style setting, Chalet Hotel Les Cimes in nearby Vaujany provides a quieter base with easy access into the wider ski area, combining traditional alpine charm with a more intimate atmosphere.

Plan Your French Alps Snow Holiday

With strong infrastructure, high-altitude skiing and meaningful new-season enhancements, Les 2 Alpes and Alpe d’Huez are two of the most compelling French Alps resorts to watch for 2026/27. Combined, they offer variety, reliability and a distinctly European ski experience.

Exclusive Snow Holiday Launchpad offers will be available across selected accommodation in both resorts, including added value and early booking incentives.

Explore the latest offers on the Deals page, or speak with our team to tailor a multi-resort itinerary.

Call 1800 335 724 or email [email protected] to start planning your 2026/27 snow holiday.