Where to Ski And Snowboard - Alpe-d’Huez introduces free lifts and new runs

Alpe-d’Huez introduces free lifts and new runs

23rd December 2008, by Chris Gill

Alpe-d’Huez has always been a good resort for beginners and novice skiers, but now it’s even better: four lifts will be free to use from this winter.

Novices will also have the option of a new local lift pass to follow on from their days on the nursery slopes. For everyone else, the resort has tried to improve travel around the ski area by creating a few new linking runs.

Starting out

Two lifts at Les Bergers, the Rif Nel 1 and the Poussin 1, and two lifts at Rond Point des Pistes (Grenouilles and Ecole 1 in the main area) will no longer require lift passes. Both areas access wide, gentle green runs - great for making those first turns.

Making progress

The resort has also introduced a new lift pass to replace the Altitude 2000 pass (which used to be regarded as the beginner pass and covered 11 lifts). The Premier Glisses ski pass now covers 27 lifts locally - mostly including blue and green runs, plus two red runs; ideal for anyone not expecting to explore beyond the immediate slopes.

Better connections

Getting around the ski area should be a little easier from this season too: a new red run, the Baratavelles, improves the connection between Rousses and Alpette/Oz; and there’s a short linking run that helps to get you from the Chamois run to those around Poutran, above Oz.