A weekend in Alpe d'Huez: the perfect 48-hour itinerary
Published on 29 July 2026 – Written by Amélie
Nestled in the heart of the Grandes Rousses mountain range, Alpe d’Huez promises an exceptional holiday whatever the season, thanks to the ski area’s great diversity and the wide range of activities on offer. Whether you enjoy hiking, cycling or spending quality time with your family, you’re sure to have a weekend that’s just right for you. Are you planning to spend two days in Alpe d’Huez soon? Find all our tips for organising your itinerary and making the most of your visit with complete peace of mind!
Day 1: Discover the must-see sights of Alpe d’Huez
Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, set off for a walk around the area using your Fun Pass, which you’ll have booked in advance of your stay. Available to walkers and mountain bikers alike, this ski pass includes access to the area for a whole day, as well as a fun activity of your choice.
With this pass, you can head up to the Pic Blanc, at an altitude of 3,330 metres, to enjoy its 360° panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Then treat yourself to a lunch break with a picnic overlooking the mountains, followed by a stroll around Lac Blanc before heading back down via the cable cars. Whether it’s a spot of exercise and relaxation in the outdoor pool or picking up speed on the toboggan run: the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy the activity included in the Fun Pass, before heading back to rest and savour a hearty, comforting dish typical of the region.
With this pass, you can head up to the Pic Blanc, at an altitude of 3,330 metres, to enjoy its 360° panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Then treat yourself to a lunch break with a picnic overlooking the mountains, followed by a stroll around Lac Blanc before heading back down via the cable cars. Whether it’s a spot of exercise and relaxation in the outdoor pool or picking up speed on the toboggan run: the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy the activity included in the Fun Pass, before heading back to rest and savour a hearty, comforting dish typical of the region.
Choose your activityRail tobogganing, outdoor swimming pool… Go at your own pace and do whatever takes your fancyDay 2: Alpe d’Huez – where nature meets thrills
The Exploration Pass, which can also be booked via our website, is the ideal pass for making the most of your second day at Alpe d’Huez. Once again, it’s suitable for everyone thanks to two options:
Start your day with a trail run that will give you a wonderful glimpse of the Alpe d’Huez mountain pastures and the breathtaking scenery! Don’t forget to check the route map to choose the one that suits you best.
Next, stop off at a mountain refuge or a mountain restaurant for a delicious lunch; among our top picks, we recommend the Refuge de la Fare, ideal for a day’s hike, or the Chalet du Lac Besson if you choose the Lakes Walk at 2,100 m, easily accessible by shuttle bus or the ski lifts. If you’re a mountain biking enthusiast, spend this second day exploring the Alpe d’Huez mountain bike area: the trails cater for all levels, from a leisurely family ride to more challenging routes that will delight experienced cyclists seeking new challenges.
Finally, enjoy a stroll around the resort to discover the village, its charm and its atmosphere, then head home with unforgettable memories of your stay in Alpe d’Huez!
- The Pedestrian Pass, which gives access to over 35 km of trails to explore the area’s most beautiful spots, as well as the town’s cable cars.
- The Mountain Bike Pass, which gives you access to 309 km of trails and lets you try out a variety of routes.
Start your day with a trail run that will give you a wonderful glimpse of the Alpe d’Huez mountain pastures and the breathtaking scenery! Don’t forget to check the route map to choose the one that suits you best.
Next, stop off at a mountain refuge or a mountain restaurant for a delicious lunch; among our top picks, we recommend the Refuge de la Fare, ideal for a day’s hike, or the Chalet du Lac Besson if you choose the Lakes Walk at 2,100 m, easily accessible by shuttle bus or the ski lifts. If you’re a mountain biking enthusiast, spend this second day exploring the Alpe d’Huez mountain bike area: the trails cater for all levels, from a leisurely family ride to more challenging routes that will delight experienced cyclists seeking new challenges.
Finally, enjoy a stroll around the resort to discover the village, its charm and its atmosphere, then head home with unforgettable memories of your stay in Alpe d’Huez!
On foot or by mountain bikeDiscover all the beauty of Alpe d'Huez in summer