The Mountain
Les Deux Alpes sits high in the Ecrins region of the French Alps. It's high-altitude, snow sure resort which holds some impressive records, including having the largest skiable glacier in Europe and the world's longest on-piste vertical drop at 2,200 meters. It's known for its reliable snow and great off-piste terrain. The ski area is vast and diverse with over 200km of on-piste runs, giving you access to a wide selection of slopes. Plus, it’s home to one of the best snow parks in Europe.
Whilst you will find a beginners area at the base of the mountain, unlike most resorts where skiing gets tougher the higher you go, some of the easiest runs at Les Deux Alpes are actually at the top of the mountain, on the Glacier du Mont de Lans. Beginners and intermediates can head up there to enjoy wide, easy-going blue runs. Lower down, you'll find mogul-filled black runs and plenty of excellent off-piste terrain.
Les Deux Alpes’ ski area is made up of 7 different sectors:
1. The Glacier – 3,600 metres
Hit the slopes at Europe’s highest ski area, where you’re guaranteed natural snow and jaw-dropping 360° views! The glacier sector starts at 3,600 metres and goes down to 3,200 metres, with runs that are perfect for skiers of all levels. If the weather’s acting up, just hop on the funicular and stay warm.
2. Toura Snowpark – 2,600 metres
Freestyle fans, this is your spot! Toura Snowpark is where you want to be if you’re looking to level up your skills. It’s open to everyone, no matter your experience. Plus, you can check out the DVA park to practice avalanche search techniques.
3. La Fée – 2,400 metres
If you’re into freeriding, La Fée is your go-to. Escape into the wild and enjoy the magical scenery in this awesome freeride zone.
4. Le Diable – 2,400 metres
Ready for a challenge? Le Diable is perfect for advanced skiers with its red and black runs. Locals call these the “big slopes,” where you can carve your way straight down through the fir trees. It’s a favorite for seasoned skiers.
5. Vallée Blanche – 2,100 metres
Looking for something a bit quieter? Vallée Blanche offers stunning, untouched views over the resort. With a brand new green run, it’s now a top pick for beginners too!
6. Les Crêtes – 2,100 metres
Les Crêtes is loved by everyone, offering great green and blue runs for beginners. It’s super easy to get to with several lifts, and there’s even a magic carpet to make things easier for newbie skiers of all ages. You can choose between the gentle green Demoiselles run or the Jandri blue run.
7. Resort – 1,650 metres
The bottom of the slopes has been redesigned to make it even better for beginners. It’s the perfect place to get your first taste of skiing, with three free magic carpets to help you up the slope without freezing!
The Village
The village of Les Deux Alpes is perched at 1,650 meters and extends along a stunning valley with breathtaking mountain views. The entire resort runs alongside the main pistes, ensuring you're always close to one of the many lifts.
Les Deux Alpes is recognised as a family friendly resort, it has been awarded the Family Plus label so you can be assured that this resort is particularly suitable for family holidays.
In comparison, it’s also known for some of the best après-ski scenes in France. Check out our après guide to discover the bars you should visit.
There’s plenty to do off the slopes too, so you could easily enjoy your stay without even heading up the mountain. Whether you want to relax in a spa, explore an ice cave, take up snow shoeing or even explore a neighbouring artisan village, Les Deux Alpes has something for everyone.
Expansion - New Jandri Cable Car
A New Jandri 3S cable car is currently under construction and set to open in December 2024!
The new Jandri lift will significantly reduce the ascent time from the village to the high-altitude area, cutting it from 40 minutes to just 17 minutes. The lift will feature spacious cabins that can each accommodate 32 people, compared to the current 20-person cabins. These cabins will include 24 seats, space for wheelchairs, and panoramic windows offering a stunning 360° view. As a result, the new lift will transport 3,000 people per hour, compared to the current 1,700 people per hour. We cant wait to see it in action.
With three new terminals at 1650m (resort level), 2,600m (mid-mountain), and 3,200m (glacier access), the new Jandri will provide access to the high-altitude area year-round. Additionally, the new lift aligns with Les Deux Alpes' commitment to reducing both its carbon footprint and visual impact on the mountains, decreasing the number of lift pylons from 17 to just seven.
Getting Here
Grenoble is the closest airport to Les Deux Alpes, it’s around a 2 hour transfer to resort. Lyon is another good option but is a slightly longer (and often more expensive) transfer that takes around 2 hours 30 minutes.
To book a ski holiday in Les Deux Alpes feel free to call one of our friendly Ski Experts on 023 8020 6971 or email sales@skiweekends.com