Huez is a picturesque commune in the French Alps known for its ski resort and important role in the 1968 Winter Olympics. It is also a popular cycling region, frequently part of the Tour de France. Ride a bicycle around the undulating green hills and paths of Huez to encounter its charming church and museums.
In winter, the Alpe d’Huez ski resort is the region’s main attraction, with slopes stretching across 249 kilometres (155 miles) of snowy peaks and bowls. The resort has one of the longest black expert runs in the world, at 16 kilometres (10 miles). Ride up one of the complex’s 84 ski lifts and capture photos of the extraordinary views of the mountains.
The snow clears for a few months in summer, when cycling becomes the popular sport in Huez. Watch Huez’s stage finish of the Tour de France. Take part in other summer sports, including a triathlon and mountain biking.
Visit the intriguing Notre Dame Church of Snow, which was constructed in the 1960s. Take a guided tour on Sunday of the bizarre structure, which rises out of the snow as a white-and-brown cylinder. Attend a music recital and admire the impressive organ, which is shaped like a hand.
Peruse the interesting exhibits of the Huez Museum of Oisans, which is dedicated to the local people and culture. Learn about the beginnings of the Alpe d’Huez sports complex and its Olympic history.
Huez is near the Italian border in southeastern France. Drive 1 hour from the nearby city of Grenoble, which has the nearest major airport. The commune has its own small airport, which serves some nearby destinations.
The lower valleys of Huez have fairly hot, sunny summers but freezing winters, as cold air flows down the mountains. Higher up, enjoy pleasant temperatures in summer and cold, snowy winters.
Appreciate thrilling ski slopes in winter and charming village features in summer in Huez, an attractive Alpine resort year-round.
