Lets Ski!

Chelsea Goodman @chelsealouise32

A holiday a bit like marmite – you’ll either love it or hate it because, let’s face it, no one goes on a ski holiday to relax. Lifts open at 9am, and no one wants to sleep in because après starts at 3pm (or 11am if, like me, you enjoy a cheeky Baileys in your coffee). Now, where to begin?

This ski trip I recently went on was a little different – a catered chalet, shared with strangers. But my gosh, were we lucky to share it with an amazing bunch! Breakfast was continental, but if you fancy treating yourself, have a fry-up – no one will judge. Once you’re suited up, though, you’ll spend 20 minutes wrestling with your ski boots (🤣). But fear not! Chalet Le Breche is ski-out, and you only need to walk about 10 paces to the gondola.

At the start of every ski holiday, people seem to study the piste map as if it’s a life-or-death mission. Honestly, why bother? All pistes are clearly marked, and you’ll eventually end up back at the same lift to head up the mountain again! (Though, if you’re a beginner, please don’t take this advice too literally – I don’t want any accidents happening on my account!)

There are loads of mainstream spots for a drink on the mountain in Alpe d’Huez, but I have to give a little shout-out to a small café called Le Lac Blanc. Their lattes? Out of this world. And the tunes? On another level – even at 10am!

If you fancy grabbing lunch, you’ve got options: head back to the chalet for a rest and some cake (handmade daily and absolutely delicious) or pick up a quick snack at the top of Les Jeux.

A word of warning: this side of the resort is the main hub, and with all the ski traffic, those dreaded moguls get churned up fast. That said, Folie Douce is absolutely worth a visit—the atmosphere is unreal, and you’ll have an unforgettable time. But don’t say I didn’t warn you about the prices! So, if you do end up spending a mortgage’s worth on drinks, I highly recommend taking the ski lift down. No one will judge you—let’s stay safe, people!

But, if you’re after a peaceful day of skiing with bright blue skies and sunshine, take the Alp’Auris ski lift to the other side of the mountain. I won’t spoil the surprise, but it’s perfect for beginners/intermediates finding their ski legs again.

After a day on the slopes, throw on your earmuffs and snow boots and check out the high street. From souvenirs to chic fashion, Alpe d’Huez has a little bit of everything. I even treated myself to a lovely pair of snow boots!

And last but certainly not least… food! The high street is packed with options. If you're craving Italian, Pinocchio’s is the place to go—but let’s be honest, we don’t come to France to eat pasta! The real magic words? Fondue and Raclette. And no one does them better than La Pomme de Pin.

If you can, request a seat in the conservatory—it's ridiculously aesthetic, beautifully decorated, and has roaring fires to keep you nice and toasty. Because, let’s face it, nothing says “living your best ski holiday life” like dunking bread into molten cheese while sitting by the fire.

Other Things to Do in Alpe d’Huez (When You’re Not Skiing or Après-ing!):

1. Ice Skating – Head to the outdoor ice rink in the heart of the resort for a fun (and slightly chaotic) skate session.

2. Luge on Rails – Try the Alpe d’Huez Alpine Coaster, a thrilling toboggan ride on rails—perfect for an adrenaline rush!

3. Swimming & Spa – Take a break at the Palais des Sports with its heated indoor pool, sauna, and wellness treatments.

4. Snowmobiling – Feel like a Bond villain as you zip across the snow on a high-speed snowmobile.

5. Paragliding (Parapente) – If skiing down isn’t enough, why not fly down with a tandem paragliding experience?

6. Dog Sledding – A wholesome and scenic adventure with adorable huskies—what’s not to love?

7. Night Sledging – Swap your skis for a sledge and race down the slopes under the stars.

8. Fat Biking – Ride a mountain bike with oversized tires down the snow-covered trails. Sounds crazy, but it’s surprisingly fun!

9. Explore the Village – Stroll through the charming streets, shop for souvenirs, or warm up with a vin chaud in a cosy café.

10. Helicopter Tour – For the ultimate bucket-list experience, take a scenic helicopter flight over the breathtaking Alps.

11. Snowshoeing – A peaceful way to explore the quieter, untouched parts of the mountains.

Written by Chelsea Goodman @chelsealouise32

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