Alpe d'Huez vs Les 2 Alpes

Alpe d'Huez vs Les 2 Alpes: Sun-soaked crowds or high-altitude party?

Both resorts sit in the same valley, but they've got very different personalities. Alpe d'Huez is the bigger, sunnier option with 111 runs spread across a massive ski area, whilst Les 2 Alpes is more compact with 96 runs but arguably better snow reliability thanks to its glacier. If you're after variety and all-day sunshine, Alpe d'Huez delivers. If you want high-altitude snow security and a younger, more party-focused vibe, Les 2 Alpes might be your spot.

Alpe d'Huez gets top marks from our users for family friendliness (4.49) and groomed runs (4.44), whilst Les 2 Alpes scores slightly higher for après-ski (4.34 vs 4.26). Both resorts are popular, but Alpe d'Huez feels more sprawling and varied, whereas Les 2 Alpes is easier to navigate on foot. One advanced skier from the UK mentioned that Alpe d'Huez "has everything you need" with lift access to Oz, Vaujany and Auris, massively extending your options. Meanwhile, an intermediate skier visiting Les 2 Alpes said it's "a small but fantastic resort" that's "compact, so never far to walk".

The Skiing

Alpe d'Huez has the edge for sheer scale. With 111 runs including 34 greens, it's brilliant for beginners and families. Our users repeatedly mention how easy it is to progress here. Alex, a beginner skier from the UK, loved that "the greens and blues are easy to get to". The Sarenne black run is a highlight - it's 16km long and gets rave reviews, though some reckon it's more red than black. Higher up, the Tunnel run offers a proper challenge. The resort sits in a sunny bowl, so everything back to the village is wide and forgiving, but afternoons can get slushy in spring.

Les 2 Alpes counters with better snow reliability. Its glacier skiing goes up to 3600m, and the new Jandri lift shifts 30-40 people at a time to the top. The terrain is more limited - just 96 runs - but there's still plenty to keep intermediates busy for a week. One user mentioned there aren't many blacks, though the grading can be tough. For beginners, the Vallée Blanche green piste is excellent for learning, and Agnieszka, a beginner skier, said it's "perfect for families" with "lots of nice blue runs". However, a few reviewers warned that some of the lower greens are narrow and get crowded, which can be sketchy for novices.

Both resorts score well for intermediates, but Alpe d'Huez offers more variety. Its rating for intermediates is 4.28 compared to Les 2 Alpes' 4.1. For experts, Alpe d'Huez edges it too (4.24 vs 4.01), with more off-piste options and better tree runs - though admittedly, tree skiing isn't a strength at either resort. Snowboarders will find both resorts decent, though Les 2 Alpes has a few flat sections that'll have you unstrapping and walking.

The Town

Alpe d'Huez is a proper resort town with loads of accommodation options (rated 4.45 by users), restaurants, bars and shops. It's functional rather than picturesque, but there's plenty going on. The Folie Douce is the après highlight - get there by 3:30pm for live music and dancers. Emma, an advanced skier, said the "cool vibe with live music" is "suitable for all ages". La Pomme de Pin gets mentioned for traditional French food, and Smithy's Tavern is a favourite sports bar. For something different, one user recommended the Thursday evening organ concert at the church.

Les 2 Alpes has a younger, more party-focused atmosphere. The Pano Bar and Umbrella Bar are legendary for après, and the resort hosts Rise Festival, which says everything about its demographic. It's compact and easy to navigate, with free shuttle buses connecting different parts. Kyle from France was disappointed by the restaurant scene, saying "most places were all shut up by 9pm", and many nights ended at the same burger joint. Les 2 Alpes scores 4.12 for eating out compared to Alpe d'Huez's 4.15 - not a massive difference, but noticeable.

Both resorts are rated highly for value - Alpe d'Huez at 4.05 and Les 2 Alpes at 4.15. Darragh, an advanced skier from Ireland, keeps returning to Alpe d'Huez because "when I price my holiday it always comes in a lot cheaper than comparable resorts", mentioning the family ski pass saves hundreds versus other options. Les 2 Alpes gets similar praise for reasonable prices on lift passes and ski hire.

The Verdict

Alpe d'Huez wins for families, beginners and anyone wanting a week-long ski safari with maximum variety. The sunny aspect is a massive plus, the ski area is huge (especially when you include the linked resorts), and there's enough going on to keep everyone happy. If you're an intermediate skier looking to clock up the miles on well-groomed pistes, this is your spot. Just avoid French school holidays unless you enjoy crowds.

Les 2 Alpes suits younger skiers, groups looking to party, and anyone worried about snow conditions. The glacier means you'll have decent skiing even when lower resorts are struggling. It's more compact, easier to navigate, and the après scene is livelier. However, the skiing gets repetitive after a few days, and the restaurant options are limited. Go here for a long weekend or if you're prioritising snow quality and nightlife over ski area size.