My typical week of après-ski activities in Alpe d’Huez !
By Laura, a passionate writer
I love skiing, but I don’t hit the slopes everyday! I like to mix things up and try new activities. Come along with me as I take you through my daily life up here — full of surprises, favourites, and little rituals.
Sunday at 10:30 AM
Challenging Mario behind the wheel of a mountain kart
To kick off the week, why not do it at full speed with a new activity that’s available both in summer and winter? The meeting point is set at the foot of the Télémixte des Jeux with Guillaume and his team. Once we reach 2,100 meters, it’s time to challenge our inner Mario and Luigi. We hop onto a mountain kart — a small two-wheeled vehicle with a front ski that puts you just inches from the ground. Hands gripping the wide handlebars, goggles on, helmet strapped… 3, 2, 1, go! We race down the slope with strategy, speed, adrenaline, and a big smile on our faces.
Monday at 8:30 AM
Up close with the ice
The wake-up call is a bit harsh, sure — but the crisp mountain air fills our lungs and gives us the boost we need to head over to the Guides’ Office at the base of the Pic Blanc gondola. On today’s agenda: an introduction to ice climbing. Nico is already waiting for us, a backpack at his feet packed with ropes, carabiners, harnesses, and crampons. In our group this morning are complete beginners — some have never even worn a harness — and yet here they are, ready to scale a frozen waterfall. The only requirement? Decent physical conditions. With our ski passes in hand, we head up to 2,100 meters before switching to ski touring gear. Destination: the Fare waterfall, a true natural gem. This icy wall lies in a peaceful, unspoiled setting — which only adds to the experience. From that moment on, we slowly step into the world of mountaineering. And by the end of the session, hearts racing, there’s only one thought on everyone’s mind: when can we do it again?
Tuesday at 10:00 AM
“Downward Dog” with Your Feet in the Snow
Today, we swap the harness for comfy leggings, a light fleece, and a thin down jacket, and head toward a semi-circle of yoga mats laid out on the snow, all facing a stunning panoramic view. At the center stands Laura, our Vinyasa yoga instructor, who will guide us through an hour of pure wellness that would impress even the most die-hard health enthusiasts. Disconnection, sensory stimulation, stress relief, improved flexibility, better oxygenation… all anchored in an energizing form of yoga that blends movement, alignment, and breathwork. Laura adapts to all experience levels, so you never feel out of your depth. After the session, we take our time strolling back to the resort before settling in on the terrace of Le Baroudeur for a well-earned, indulgent snack.
Wednesday at 6:30 PM
Dinner in an Igloo
If there’s one must-try in the mountains during winter, it’s definitely a delicious “fondue” (melted cheese). And when you can enjoy it inside an igloo with good company, what more could you ask for—except maybe a starry sky overhead? Ah, there it is, slowly revealing itself. But before settling in on cozy blankets and plunging your fork into the bread (watch out for the penalty if you drop it!), there’s a snowshoe trek from the resort to the evening’s spot, guided by Clément, a mountain guide. After an aperitif under the stars, we take our seats in this cozy refuge for the classic mountain dish. And if the weather allows it, a session of gazing at the sky, stars, and space is planned.
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Saddle Up!
In summer, cyclists set out to conquer the 21 hairpin bends following the route of the Tour de France. In winter, you can still ride a bike—but on snow—with a Fat E-Bike, an electric-assisted bike equipped with very wide tires. This activity takes place on a designated part of the ski area, supervised by a certified instructor. Once you’ve gotten the hang of your bike and the feeling of the slippery surface, it’s time to hold on tight and go! After two hours of more “touring” style riding, you can choose to continue with a “downhill” session for a bigger adrenaline rush and more of a challenge.
Friday at 6:00 P
Relaxing with the Healing Powers of the Mountains
Altitude, cold, light, minerals, and plants… all fundamental and natural elements found here in our region. Alpine therapy is an exclusive and unique concept offered at 1,830 meters, right in the heart of Alpe d’Huez, at the 5-star Grandes Rousses Hotel. Inspired by the well-known practices of thalassotherapy at sea, it’s adapted to the mountain setting. Deep massages, facial treatments, rituals, cryotherapy… you can relax for a few hours in a wonderfully cozy environment, perfectly recharged for the next day’s start and the new workweek ahead.