Alpe d'Huez Hotels

Alpe D'Huez has been a well-kept French secret for years. High up in the Massif des Grandes, it occupies a sheltered, sunny bowl opposite Les Deux Alpes. Its privileged position means it commands spectacular views of the valley below. Much of the resort is tastefully modern, and the mostly hotels and apartments tumble attractively alongside the main roads. The original village has in fact been added to extensively in recent years, but happily has not lost its certain charm.

The resort is the capital of the fifth largest ski area in France, and at the hub of 238km of glorious, linked skiing. Its high altitude ensures the pistes stay snow-sure for most of the season. It has built up a wonderfully diverse and efficient lift system, greatly appreciated by all its happy skiers. Beginners through to expert skiers find thrills and spills here - with an exceptional steep drop and a tough long black run for the most gung-ho of the lot. The off-piste skiing is excellent, and gives powder-hounds the "perfect 10" when combined with a sunny spell.